Prediction of the functionality of young South American red wines based on chemical parameters

• Grant number: 13/19141-3
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants - Publications - Scientific article
• Start date: October 01, 2013
• End date: March 31, 2014
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Food Science and Technology - Food Science
• Principal Investigator: Inar Castro Erger
• Grantee: Inar Castro Erger
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCF). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Wine functionality is an emerging parameter that may affect consumers' decision to purchase a wine. Thus, our objective was to classify young South American red wines according to their functionality. Methods and Results: Four factors were considered for sample selection: vintage (2009/2010), variety (Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Carménère, Merlot, Syrah and Tannat), country (Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Uruguay) and price (1.0-50.0 USD/bottle). Functionality of the wines was defined by their antioxidant activity (DPPH and ORAC), total polyphenols (TP), total anthocyanins (TA) and colour. After applying multivariate analysis, wines were separated into three clusters. Wines grouped into the highest functionality cluster presented higher values of TP, TA, antioxidant activity, darkness and more purple colour than wines classified as Intermediate or Low Functionality. Using discriminant analysis, more than 96% of the wines were correctly classified according to their functionality, using only seven markers. Applying multivariate analysis, 666 South American wines were classified according to their functionality based on chemical markers, colour and price. Malbec and Tannat wines produced in Argentina, priced above 15.00 USD/bottle, showed the best functionality. The present study brings relevant information that may help wine consumers on their choices regarding wine functionality. (AU)