Vineyard measurement and berry sensory analysis for Shiraz

Abstract

Vineyard measurement and berry sensory analysis for Shiraz

Summary

This Project, throughout the 2004/05 growing season, achieved its objective of using vineyard assessment, berry sensory and analytical assessment to differentiate between six Shiraz blocks in the McLaren Vale Region.

As a small-scale investigation, inferences were noted, rather than statistical relationships determined. Some differences in canopy characteristics appeared to be associated with some fruit flavour characteristics, ie, in a canopy of moderate vigour leading to exposed fruit there was more intense flavoured and balanced fruit production. Canopy vigour is a product of inherent site vigour and management practices; the latter needing more attention on higher vigour sites to achieve a favourable canopy.

The final step in the Project was to investigate if any characteristics could be related to final wine quality. This was not possible due to variability in the small wine batches, which made ranking of the wines difficult. This will be addressed in the following year of the Project.

Extension of the vineyard assessment procedure to growers, for use in their own vineyards, was started in the first seminar. It will be expanded upon in the July 2005 seminar, with these results being disseminated. More encouragement of the growers involved is needed in the 2005/06 season. Involvement of wine makers is critical and should be encouraged and acknowledged.