Influence of rootstock on the performance of the Albarín Negro minority grapevine cultivar

Abstract Albarin Negro is a red minority grapevine cultivar ( Vitis vinifera L.) grown in Asturias (Spain) that is currently expanding because of its high quality. Considering the capital importance of rootstock in maturation, the effects of five rootstocks (110 R, 196-17 C, 101-14 MG, 3309 C and Rupestris de Lot) on the agronomical and enological characteristics of Albarin Negro were studied for three years. The trial consisted in three repetitions of ten vines for each rootstock. The phenological stages of budburst, flowering and veraison were monitored. Vegetative and production parameters were measured, and berry analysis performed at harvest. The wines subsequently elaborated were analyzed for global parameters, acids, sugars, chromatic characteristics and volatile compounds, and sensorially evaluated. Rootstocks 110 R and 3309 C produced a higher berry yield but they delayed maturation. 101-14 MG had the lowest yield and berry weight. Rupestris de Lot produced a poor berry set, as has been reported in other studies. Wines produced from 196-17 C scored better in sensorial analysis. These results should be taken into account for future plantations.