Characterization of grape cultivars for processing and fresh market production in a subtropical área

Abstract

The aim of this research was to diversify the grape production system, currently based on table grapes, in the subtropical region of Parana state, Brazil, through the introduction of cultivars for processing and fresh market production. A field trial was carried out in an experimental vineyard of 'Isabel' and 'Jacquez' American grapes, as well as 'Cabernet Sauvignon' and 'Tannat' European grapes, located in the city of Maringá. Two cycles were evaluated (2003/2004 and 2004/2005 seasons). The phenological development of grape cultivars and the thermal demand (degree day - DD) were characterized in order to determine means to predict harvest. The physicochemical characteristics of berries and clusters were determined from early ripening to harvest. In the 2003/2004 season, the cycle duration of 'Isabel', 'Jacquez', 'Cabernet Sauvignon' and 'Tannat', as well their thermal demand were: 127, 126, 126 and 139 days, and 1,238, 1,287, 1,221 and 1,382 DD, respectively. In the 2004/2005 season, the means were: 135, 149, 132 and 139 days, and 1,308, 1,454, 1,295 and 1,375 DD, respectively. The production per plant and yield in 2003/2004 were: 3.0, 14.2, 3.2 and 12.9 kg per plant and 7.5, 35.5, 5.3 and 21.4 t ha-1, respectively, whereas in 2004/2005 the means were: 9.9, 15.4, 9.9 and 6.0 kg per plant, and 24.9, 38.5, 24.9 and 15.9 t ha-1, respectively. Based on these results, it is possible to conclude that the American and European grape cultivars evaluated present good adaptation and have high potential to be grown in the subtropical area of Parana state.