The Sustainable Winegrowing podcast brings you the latest science and research for the wine industry from the world's top experts and experienced growers.
In the time it takes to drive from one vineyard to another, you can listen to in-depth technical information on topics like integrated pest management, fruit quality, water conservation, and nutrient management. Sharing your Sustainable Story with your visitors is made even easier with our Marketing Tips episodes.
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LISTEN IN to Episode 201:
Balance Hot Climate, High Sugar Wine with Green Grape Juice aka Verjus
High temperatures and extreme weather events can have numerous impacts on wine grapes and ultimately wine quality. Dr. Andreea Botezatu (Texas A&M University, Texas AgriLife Extension Service) finds that changes in ripening patterns are the most common.
In high heat, sugars accumulate faster, acids degrade, ripening happens earlier and the result is higher alcohol wines. The challenge is that ripening is not linear. Tannins and maturation of the seeds do not progress at the same pace. Plus, high pH causes color and flavor instability.
Andreea is experimenting with verjus, the juice of green grapes. In North America, grapes from crop thinning are traditionally considered waste. However, in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, green grape juice is used in many culinary practices. Verjus has little sugar, high acidity, and low pH making it a perfect addition to unbalanced wines.
Learn about her current experiment testing both red and white grape verjus against three other acidification methods. Plus, Andreea gives listeners tips on how to prevent that green pepper flavor caused by ladybug taint.
Resources:
- 145: New Class of Compounds Linked to Smoke Taint in Wines (Podcast)
- 143: Can Barrier Sprays Protect Against Smoke Taint in Wine? (Podcast)
- Dr. Andreea Botezatu’s LinkedIn page
- Dr. Andreea Botezatu ResearchGate
- Dr. Andreea Botezatu Google Scholar
- Malo-Lactic Fermentation in a New Climate
- Sustainable Wine Practices
- Texas A&M Facebook page
- Texas A&M Foundation
- Texas AgriLife Extension Enology YouTube