Climate change is impacting the wine industry, leading to changes in grape composition and ultimately affecting the taste of wine. Researchers at the French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRAE) are working to develop innovative strategies to control the fermentation process and ensure the quality of wine in the face of these challenges.
The researchers are focusing on the fermentation process, where yeast transforms sugars in grape juice into alcohol and carbon dioxide, producing volatile molecules that contribute to the aroma of wine. They have discovered that the addition of nutrients, particularly nitrogen, at mid-fermentation can enhance the production of isoamyl acetate, a compound responsible for banana and fresh fruit aromas, which are desirable in light and fruity wines.
To gain a deeper understanding of the fermentation process, INRAE researchers have developed real-time sensors that monitor the conversion of sugar into ethanol and the production of aroma compounds by yeast during winemaking. These sensors provide valuable data on the kinetics of aroma production throughout fermentation, allowing for a more precise control of the process and the production of desired aromas.
The data collected from the sensors has been used to develop a mathematical model that predicts the effects of various fermentation parameters, such as nitrogen levels and temperature management, on the fermentation process and the production of associated aromas. This model enables the development of innovative strategies for controlling the fermentation process, maximizing the production of specific aromas, and achieving a target value for a group of desired aroma molecules.
These advancements in fermentation control offer a solution to the challenges posed by climate change and ensure the production of high-quality wines that meet consumer preferences. The research findings are being transferred to wine producers, providing them with tools to adapt to the changing climate and maintain the quality and consistency of their wines.