LOCAL MICROCLIMATES AND CLIMATE CHANGES INFLUENCE ON CULTIVATION TECHNIQUES, GRAPEVINE PRODUCTION AND QUALITY

Abstract

The research was carried out between the 2020 and 2022 growing seasons, in six different wine-growing regions of Romania, including the west, central, south, and east. The grapevine growing technology and production process were investigated, which were carried out differently depending on the soil and environmental resources in each growing area. The climatic conditions were also analyzed, as well as the influence on the production and quality of two grape cultivars for superior red wines grown in the researched areas. Soil management systems, fertilization, disease and insect control were investigated. At the same time, less invasive, eco friendly experimental alternatives were tested as an option to conventional technological versions. Observations and determinations were performed for each experimental alternative regarding the combined influence of the local microclimate and the different management on grape production and concentration in sugars, acidity, and vitamins. Although the grape yield was lower compared to the control variants, the experimental, less invasive and eco-friendly variants proved to be viable alternatives to the conventional ones. These experimental alternatives resulted in lower carbon emissions, less pollution, healthier viticultural products, and higher profits.