Vineyard measurement and berry sensory analysis

Abstract

Vineyard measurement and berry sensory analysis

Summary

This project assessed six Shiraz blocks in the McLaren Vale region over the two seasons of 2004/05 and 2005/06, and achieved its objective of using vineyard canopy assessment, berry sensory and analytical assessment to differentiate between the blocks. As a small scale investigation, inferences were noted, rather than statistical relationships determined. In the 05/06 season differences in canopies were less obvious than in 04/05, but it was still evident that moderate vigour canopies with reasonably exposed fruit generally lead to greater intensity, length and complexity of fruit flavours.

The canopy characteristics that appeared to be most differentiating as possible indicators of potential fruit quality in both seasons were fruit exposure, leaf layer number and periderm development. Results from both seasons indicate that duplex soils in the region, under appropriate management, tend to consistently produce vines with moderately open canopies and, potentially, fruit of high flavour intensity, length and complexity.

Assessment of the wines found that in the small number of vineyards addressed there were correlations between canopy and fruit characteristics in the vineyard and the final wine quality but they may be affected by vineyard variability and were not always absolute. The 05/06 results also showed, in one instance, that greater intervention on a site of inherent high potential can achieve a more open canopy, and a reasonable wine score.

The extension component of the project was limited over the harvest time, and will be undertaken at an open session in Spring 2006, to discuss the project and potential for improving and evaluating management based on these assessments.