Anthocyanin profile of Spanish Vitis vinifera L. red grape varieties in danger of extinction

Abstract

This paper reports on a study of the anthocyanin fraction in berry skins of ten minority red and pink grapevine varieties from Castilla-La Mancha (Spain) and two traditional varieties from this growing region, Tempranillo and Garnacha Tinta, as references. These varieties were correctly identified beforehand by analysing six microsatellite regions recommended by the GENRES 081 project; five varieties were identified with genotypes identical to those described previously, and five new genotypes not described for any variety according to the literature consulted. Grape skin extracts of each variety were analysed by HPLC-UV-Vis, and four perfectly differentiated anthocyanin profiles were obtained. In six out of ten varieties (Churriago, Unknown 1, Unknown 2, Ariño, Brujidera and Moravia Agria) the major anthocyanin was malvidin-3-glucoside (39%). Tinto Velasco contained more than 29% delphinidin-3-glucoside, Gordera Roja and Teta de Vaca Tinta more than 40% peonidin-3-glucoside, and Rojal more than 29% cyanidin-3-glucoside. Results of this work point out the existence of unusual anthocyanic profiles in several of these indigenous varieties, and highlight the necessity of studying the effects of variety on other flavonoids and their impact on wine colour.