Evaluation of the technological potential of some old autochthonous grapevine varieties (Vitis vinifera L.) in the current climate conditions of Northeastern Romania

Abstract

Old Romanian grapevine varieties are currently preserved in ampelographic collections or planted on very small areas. In the context of recent climate changes, technological characteristics of three old Romanian grapevine varieties (Vitis vinifera L.) for white wines (Rară Albă, Alb Românesc and Plăvaie) were evaluated in the climatic conditions of the northeastern Romania (Copou-Iasi wine-growing center) in two consecutive years (2023-2024). Ripening the grapes in the second part of September, the analyzed varieties produced medium - large grapes (140-220 g), leading to high yields (>19 t/ha), with good sugar accumulations (>185 g/L) and a balanced total acidity (>4.5 g/L as tartaric acid). Analyzed in relation to the current climate conditions, autochthonous varieties showed superior technological characteristics indicating their potential use of for the production of quality white wines in the northeastern area of Romania, also, providing important genetic material for future breeding programs.