Berry response to water, light and heat stresses

Abstract

Berry composition at harvest is a main determinant for wine quality, and results from complex interactions between the genotypes of the rootstock, of the variety and of their environment. Berry composition depends on primary compounds and nutrients imported through the phloem and the xylem saps, and on their storage and metabolism. All these processes may be affected by the global environment sensed by the plant and by the local environment imposed on the berries by climate and vineyard management. The present chapter summarizes the impact of the abiotic environment on grapevine physiology and berry composition, with special regards to the effects of light, water and heat.