Characterisation of Vernaccia Nera (Vitis vinifera L.) Grapes and Wine
Vernaccia Nera (VN) is a minor Italian red grape cultivar whose oenological properties have not been investigated yet. Traditional winemaking procedures with VN can include grape drying and even triple sequential fermentations, but a rational vinification approach should be based on the grape composition. Since a comprehensive characterisation of the VN grape is still missing, the ripening of VN grapes was monitored by evaluating flavour compounds, proanthocyanidins and anthocyanins. The grapes were used to produce red wine whose chemical composition and sensory properties were assessed. Ripe VN grapes contained high amounts of extractable anthocyanins (0.88 g/kg). The most abundant anthocy…
Innovative Alcoholic Drinks Obtained by Co-Fermenting Grape Must and Fruit Juice
In this study, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay musts, and fruit juices from cherry, kiwi, peach, and strawberry were co-fermented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae EC1118 and Torulaspora delbrueckii UMY196 at two different proportions (80:20 (v/v) and 60:40 (v/v)). The most pleasant fruit-based drink was obtained with Cabernet Sauvignon must and kiwi juice in a proportion of 60:40 and fermented with T. delbrueckii. This beverage was produced in higher volume to simulate a scale-up, and the aromatic profile, sensory description, and consumer acceptability were determined. The most powerful odorants of the kiwi-based drink were ethyl octanoate, phenylethanal, ethyl hexanoate, vinyl-guaiacol, be…
Evaluation of the antioxidant/antimicrobial performance of Posidonia oceanica in comparison with three commercial natural extracts and as a treatment on fresh-cut peaches (Prunus persica Batsch)
Abstract This research aimed at extending the choice of natural antimicrobials/antioxidants for food applications. Four plant extracts, Posidonia oceanica (PO), Green Tea (GT), Grape seeds (GS) and Grape skin (GK), were analyzed to determine their total phenolic content, antioxidant activity and in vitro antimicrobial performance. PO extract showed the highest total phenolic content (711 mg gallic acid/g extract) and antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger and Penicillium chrysogenum . The highest antioxidant (3.81 mg/L EC 50 ) and antibacterial activities (bactericidal against Gram positives and bacteriostatic against Gram negatives) were found for GT extract. The best performing ext…