Interactions of Vine Age and Reflective Mulch Upon Berry, Must, and Wine Composition of Five Vitis vinifera Cultivars

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ABSTRACT Four- and 14-year-old Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Meunier, Pinot noir, and 15-year-old Riesling vines located at Thirty Bench Vineyards in Beamsville, Ontario, were assessed in terms of vine age (2002 and 2003) and reflective mulch treatments (2003) with respect to berry, must, and wine composition as well as wine sensory attributes. In 2002, but not 2003, old vines had higher yields, clusters per vine, cluster weights, and berry weights than young vines. Berries from young vines tended to have higher Brix and lower titratable acidity (TA), pH, and total phenols than those from old vines in 2002; in 2003, age showed little impact on berry composition. Wines made from young vines in 2002 were higher in TA, and often lower in pH, color intensity, and anthocyanins than those from old vines, while in 2003, young vines produced wines with lower TA, and higher pH, intensity, and total phenols. Reflective mulch showed few effects on the berry, must, and wine composition of the red wine cultivars; however, mulch increased free and bound terpenes in the Riesling berries. Wines produced from young Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc vines exhibited more intense vegetal aromas and flavors than those from old vines in 2002 but not in 2003. The red wines made from the mulched vines generally exhibited the least amount of vegetal aroma and flavor. Reflective mulch also led to less perceived acidity in Riesling wines.