Comparison of selections of Vitis vinifera cv. Pinot Noir at Great Western, Victoria

Abstract

Five selections of Pinot Noir grapevine were evaluated over 3 seasons at Great Western, Victoria. The yields of selection IC698104 were consistently higher than all other selections and were always significantly higher than selections IV692222 and IC688048. The greater yields of selection IC698104 were associated with a high number of bunches per vine and a high bunch weight. Selection IV622051 had the greatest bunch weight but fewer bunches per vine than IC698 104. Selection AV7 12340 had a similar number of bunches per vine to IC698 104, but a significantly lower bunch weight due to fewer berries per bunch. Selection AV7 12340 ripened consistently earlier than all other selections, with highest sugar concentrations and pH, and lowest titratable acid concentrations. At least some of the seasonal differences in yield and juice composition over all selections could be attributed to climatic differences. The higher yielding selections were not associated with lower sugar concentrations, nor was there a significant relationship between yield and bunch weight. Two selections, IV692222 and IC688048, are considered to be derived from the same source, Waedenswil B110116, and this was supported by the similar results from both selections in this study. Yield trends between selections differed from those described in other reports, suggesting that regional influences, such as environmental or cultural conditions, may interact to influence the relative performance of selections.