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WineEast T Studying Water and Soil Effects Studies evaluate environmental interconnectedness in winegrowing regions By Andrew G. Reynolds wenty years ago winegrowing focused more on ways of manipulating grapevines, while today the emphasis is on understanding the grapevine ecosystem and the many interactions between soil, site climate, vine physiology and cultural practices. For this reason I've chosen terroir as a theme for this column. Pushing the envelope in Bordeaux Water deficits vs. the terroir effect The impact water deficit stress has on vine shoot growth, berry weight, grape composition and overall vintage quality was in- vestigated in several Bordeaux vineyards, and three methods for assessing water deficit stress were compared. Vine water status was assessed for three soil types during four vintages by means of stem water potential and carbon isotope discrimination measured on grape sugar. Regional water deficit was compared across 30 vintages by means of water balance modeling. Water deficit stress anticipated shoot growth slackening, limited berry weight and enhanced berry anthocyanin content. Berry sugar content was greatest when water deficit was mild. Stem water poten- tial measurements and carbon isotope discrimination were accurate tools for assessing vine water status on a plot scale such as this trial. Seasonal water deficit at a regional scale can be correctly es- timated by water balance models. Vintage quality in Bordeaux is determined by the intensity of water deficit stress rather than by air temperatures. The authors concluded that vine phenology and grape ripening are highly dependent on water uptake conditions. Mild water m o deficit stress enhances grape quality for the production of red wines. Vine water status can accurately be assessed by means of stem water potential or carbon isotope discrimination measured on grape sugars. Quality losses through severe water stress can be avoided through the use of drought-adapted plant material, appropriate canopy man- agement, yield reduction or the implementation of deficit irrigation. Van Leeuwen, C.; Tregoat, O.; Chone, X.; Bois, B.; Pernet, D. ; and Gaudillere, J.-P. J. Int. Sci. Vigne Vin 43(3):121-134 (2009). Contact address of the senior author: k-van-leeuwen@enitab.fr; ENITA Bordeaux University, France. Niagara Cabernet Franc Characterization of wines by sensory analysis Chemical and descriptive sensory analysis was conducted for nine experimental Niagara Peninsula Cabernet Franc wines from the 2005 vintage and eight wines from 2006 to illustrate differences that might support the sub-appellation system in Niagara. Twelve trained judges evaluated six aroma and flavor attributes (red fruit, black cher- ry, black currant, black pepper, bell pepper and green bean), and three mouthfeel sensory attributes (astringency, bitterness and acidity) plus color intensity. Data were – Mist Sprayers – C Contemporary Fine Art Murals on Stone Tile Proudly featuring the whimsical wine art of Gérard Puvis! Research American Made Low Maintenance High Performance Excellent for spraying: VINEYARDS, vegetables, orchards, nurseries, Christmas trees, mosquitoes, cattle, chicken houses, etc. 7240 County Road AA, Quinter, KS 67752 For free brochure contact: Swihart Sales Co. 46 Wines & Vines MARCH 201 1 Motor Models available We offer a complete line of low volume mist blowers. References available in your area 785-754-3513 or 800-864-4595 www.swihart-sales.com Add a distinctive focal point to any interior or exterior space: tasting room, wine cellar, dining areas, patio, gift shop, and more! FOIL EMBOSSED ART AND WINE SCULPTURE COMMISSIONS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. 770.639.1488 • www.beyondwowtileart.com y S n a a e l p s