IN BREVE
- Welschriesling is crucial in the production of white and sparkling wines in Brazil, covering approximately 292 hectares in the Veranópolis region.
- The research examined three Welschriesling clones (all Italian)—ISV-1, RI12V23, and VCR-365—to identify the best ones for local conditions.
- The RI12V23 clone stands out for its productivity and grape quality. It produces 2.1 kg per vine and has ideal chemical parameters for sparkling wine production.
- The climatic conditions of the vintage under review influenced ripening, showing that Welschriesling adapts well to environmental challenges.
- The study suggests that clonal selection can strengthen the role of Welschriesling in sparkling wine production.
Welschriesling confirms its strategic role in the production of white and sparkling wines in Brazil. This is according to a recent study conducted by the Centro Estadual de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa em Fruticultura (DDPA/SEAPDR) of the Government of Rio Grande do Sul, with contributions from researchers at the Universidade de Caxias do Sul and Embrapa Uva e Vinho, which analyzed the agronomic behavior of various clones in the Veranópolis region, in the State of Rio Grande do Sul.
WELSCHRIESLING IN BRAZIL: SURFACE AREA AND ROLE IN THE SUPPLY CHAIN
In the main wine-growing district of Southern Brazil, Welschriesling covers about 292 hectares, ranking among the significant varieties for fine wine production. Together with Chardonnay, it represents a fundamental base for Brazilian sparkling wines, a growing and transforming segment.
COMPARING WELSCHRIESLING CLONES: ISV-1, RI12V23, AND VCR-365
The research examined three clones of Italian origin: ISV-1, RI12V23, and VCR-365. The goal is to identify the genetic materials best suited to local soil and climate conditions, characterized by altitude (705 meters) and climatic variability.
EARLINESS AND VEGETATIVE CYCLE: AN ADVANTAGE FOR WHITES
Welschriesling is distinguished by early phenology compared to red varieties. Budbreak occurs in early September, while the harvest takes place between January and early February. This characteristic allows for an earlier harvest and better adaptation to the region’s climatic conditions.
BUDBREAK AND CHILLING REQUIREMENTS
The variety’s chilling requirement is estimated at about 150 hours below 7.2°C. In the cycle analyzed, 379 hours were accumulated, ensuring satisfactory budbreak. The VCR-365 clone recorded the highest value, with 73.8% of buds opening. The ISV-1 clone, on the other hand, shows later budbreak, which is useful for reducing the risk of damage from spring frosts.
PRODUCTION AND GRAPE QUALITY
Production levels for Welschriesling clones are around 2 kg per vine, with yields between 8 and 8.4 tons per hectare. These values are compatible with the production of grapes intended for quality wines. The RI12V23 clone emerges as the top performer:
- 2.1 kg per vine
- average cluster weight of 160.5 grams
- 17 °Brix
- acidity of 94 meq/L
- pH 3.17
These parameters are consistent with the production of sparkling wine bases, as confirmed by the Brazilian research itself.
CLIMATE AND RIPENING: EFFECTS OF RAIN
The climatic conditions of the 2020/2021 cycle, during which the measurements were taken, affected the grape parameters. Heavy rains during ripening, especially in January, led to a dilution of sugars. For Welschriesling, this results in more moderate °Brix levels, which are considered favorable for sparkling wine production.
CLUSTER COMPACTNESS AND PHYTOSANITARY ASPECTS
The RI12V23 clone has more compact clusters than the others. This characteristic can increase the risk of phytosanitary issues, but no significant damage was detected during the observed cycle. Overall, all clones showed good health.
CLONES AND ADAPTATION: THE CHOICE OF GENETIC MATERIAL
The study highlights the importance of clonal selection based on the environment. Differences between clones influence not only yield but also grape quality and oenological destination.
THE RI12V23 CLONE AS A BENCHMARK FOR SPARKLING WINES
Among the clones analyzed, RI12V23 stands out for its productive balance and grape quality. The chemical parameters fall within the ideal ranges for sparkling wine production, confirming its potential for viticulture in Rio Grande do Sul.
The study therefore indicates a clear direction: through targeted clonal selection, Welschriesling can strengthen its role in the production of sparkling wines, both in Brazil and beyond.
