Abstract

This paper shows the results of a study carried out during four years (2001-2004). Its aim was the characterization of Tannat, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes cultivated in the south of Uruguay. The results were evaluated to qualify the enological potential of these varieties of Vitis vinifera L. Typical cultivation situations in the region were included of each variety. The grapes were analysed at harvest for determination of global composition and polyphenolic potential. Tannat grapes presented very different characteristics in relation to other varieties. Tannat had the highest percentage of seeds, berry weight, sugar contents, total acidity, total polyphenols, total anthocyanins, extractable anthocyanins, skin tannins and seed tannins levels. Also, they had the lowest pH values and the highest EA%, corresponding to the lowest extractability of anthocyanins. The effect of vintage on the grape composition was very important, according to the impact of the climatic conditions in the synthesis of quality components of berries. However, the joint consideration of analytical indexes of base composition, polyphenolic potential and structure of the berry allowed a perfect discrimination of samples of each variety.

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