Characterization of Berry Aromatic Profile of cv. Trebbiano Romagnolo Grapes and Effects of Intercropping with Salvia officinalis L.

Abstract

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are secondary metabolites responsible for the aroma of grapes and the quality of wine. Apart from genetics, agronomic practices may impact the aroma composition and the concentration of volatiles in grape berries. The possible influence of intercropping with medicinal aromatic plants (MAPs) on the VOCs in grape berries’ profile has been poorly explored. Trebbiano Romagnolo is a white Vitis vinifera cultivar cultivated within the Italia region Emilia-Romagna. The study investigated, for the first time, the volatile organic profile of Trebbiano Romagnolo berries as well as the possible influences of intercropping with sage (Salvia officinalis L.) on the volatile composition of grape berries. A total of 48 free and bound aroma compounds were identified using solid phase extraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPE-GC-MS). In the free aroma fraction, the main classes were C6 derivatives, alcohols, and benzenes, while in the bound aroma fraction, the major classes were benzenes, C13 norisoprenoids, and terpenes. The results obtained in this experiment indicate that intercropping with Salvia officinalis may influence volatile compounds in grape berries, an interesting result in cultivars considered neutral such as Trebbiano Romagnolo, providing new insights for exploring the complexity of the terroir and the role of agroecological strategies.