How do water deficits increase wine quality?

San Francisco Chronicle June 1, 2007

Matthews et al., 1990

[or size] Matthews et al. 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990 Results of water deficit treatments were interpreted as yield treatments and berry size treatments.

Fixed amount of stuff / berry? Total Antho.? Size Doubles Total Antho.? Roby et al., 2004

Water deficits have direct effects on flavonoid gene expression and metabolism. The effects of ED on flavonoid gene expression and anthocyanin accumulation were maintained long after vines were released from water deficit. The increase in 3’,4’,5’ hydroxylated anthocyanins deepens color and puts more of the pigments into forms that resist oxidation and resultant color change. Water deficits accelerate fruit ripening to maturity. Sugar accumulation may be required for anthocyanin biosynthesis in grape.

Simone Castellarin Mark Matthews, Gabriele Di Gaspero

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