PROJECT'S METHODOLOGY
The project will start with an overview of the obstacles and the prospect of exploiting the varieties in question through interviews with all the wineries in the Region.
The innovative approach to be implemented includes:
• the genetic characterization of the 5 native varieties of Central Greece
• the comparison of the quality characteristics of native varieties with those of foreign reference varieties in order to recognize their diversity.
• the identification & detailed recording of the volatile compounds responsible for the aromatic profile of the wines
In particular, the project will start with an overview of the obstacles and the perspective of exploiting the varieties in question through interviews with all the wineries of the Region.
Project start
At the start of the project, vineyards will be selected and plant material will be sampled for molecular identification. The genotyping of the varieties will allow the creation of a “reference molecular profile” which is useful for the identification and construction of dendrograms that will capture the genetic relatedness or not of the samples.
Ripening period
During the ripening period of the grapes, ripeness will be checked (through the analysis of sugars and pH) and when the grapes reach the optimal technological maturity, the required quantities will be harvested to be used in micro-vinifications.
Vinification
Subsequently, the micro-vinifications will take place in the experimental winery of EOAP as well as in the wineries. Upon completion of the vinification process, chemical analyzes and the quantification of volatile compounds (by mass spectrometry (GC-MS)) will be carried out in the wines of the autochthonous varieties which will give the possible influence of the different terroirs and the aromatic profile of each variety.
Evaluation
This will be followed by an organoleptic evaluation of the wines by a panel consisting of members of the GPA, sommeliers and opinion leaders.
The application of the above methodology will supply the contributors of the region’s vine-wine industry with sufficient data for the targeted utilization of native varieties.
