Assessment of Tempranillo grapes quality in the vineyard by VITUR score-sheet

Resumen

This article reports a new approach to winegrape assessment in the vineyard. Vegetative growth, cropping level, total leaf area and exposed canopy surface area were determined before harvest in 25 vineyards (Vitis vinifera L. 'Tempranillo') in the region of Rioja (Spain). Winegrape assessment of all vineyards was performed by Vitur score-sheet with eleven vineyard variables. AdDitionally, the main parameters of the chemical composition of the grapes responsible for technological maturation criteria were also determined. Correlation analysis between vineyard variables and the chemical composition of the grapes were performed to identify characteristics associated with grape quality. Vineyard age, pruning weight, yield:pruning weight ratio, total and canopy surface area, total leaf area:canopy surface area ratio and leaf health status were not good inDicators of 'Tempranillo' grape composition. In contrast, other variables such as yield per vine, exposed surface area:yield ratio and fruit health status showed a good relationship with the colour and juice composition. The Vitur value was the stuDied parameter that Displayed the best correlation with the chemical composition of the grapes. Vitur value was significantly correlated with extractable and total anthocyanins, total polyphenols index, sugar content, titratable aciDity, tartaric acid and malic acid content. These results inDicated that Vitur scoresheet could be used for 'Tempranillo' vineyard assessment as a rapid and reliable method.