Vine vigour modulates bunch microclimate and affects the composition of grape and wine flavonoids: an unmanned aerial vehicle approach in a Sangiovese vineyard in Tuscany

Background and Aims This study focused on the impact of vine vigour on Sangiovese grapes and wines, applying a high-resolution remote sensing technique by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform to identify vigour at the single vine level within a vineyard. Methods and Results A factorial field experiment was established combining two vigour classes (low and high) and two bunch positions within the canopy (north-facing and south-facing). The remote sensing technique by the UAV platform identified the heterogeneity in terms of vigour within the vineyard. Vine vigour influenced significantly the composition of anthocyanins, flavonols and flavan-3-ol monomers of the grapes and wines. Conclusions The work confirmed that UAV-based remote sensing enabled the successful evaluation of vine vigour at high resolution and that vigour influences the flavonoid monomeric compounds as a function of bunch position within the canopy. Significance of the Study Understanding the impact of spatial variability in a vineyard on grape composition should assist the viticulturist and winemaker toward the adoption of adequate viticultural management operations capable of adding value to their wines.