Relationships between seed and berry development of Vitis Vinifera L. cv Shiraz: Developmental changes in seed morphology and phenolic composition
Berries were collected regularly from fruit set to berry maturity from irrigated (Shiraz) grapevines in a Barossa valley vineyard. Seeds were removed for detailed study of physical attributes (weight, moisture, colour) and phenolic composition (seed tannins). Three phases of seed growth and developm...
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| Published in: | Australian journal of grape and wine research 2005-04, Vol.11 (1), p.43-58 |
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| Main Authors: | , |
| Format: | Article |
| Language: | eng |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | Get full text |
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| Summary: | Berries were collected regularly from fruit set to berry maturity from irrigated (Shiraz) grapevines in a Barossa valley vineyard. Seeds were removed for detailed study of physical attributes (weight, moisture, colour) and phenolic composition (seed tannins). Three phases of seed growth and development were discerned: (1) a phase of seed growth characterised by a steady increase in both fresh weight and dry weight, biosynthesis and accumulation of flavan‐3‐ols and tannins, and green appearance; (2) a transition phase where seed fresh weight and dry weight reached a maximum, but with continuing enlargement of the basal end. Accumulation of flavan‐3‐ols and seed tannins also reached a maximum during phase 2, and was accompanied by an onset of tannin oxidation, and yellow appearance; and finally, (3) a phase of seed drying and maturation defined by a decrease in fresh weight due to water export, a sustained oxidation of tannins, and overall brown appearance. These phases in seed development correspond to particular stages in berry development. Seeds reached maximum fresh seed weight and full size at the beginning of berry colouring (veraison), while maximum dry seed weight coincided with maximum berry weight. Changes in seed phenolics were linked to berry development and maturation. Changes in seed coat colour were also related to developmental changes in berry anthocyanins and total skin phenolics, indicating that the external appearance and colour of the seed coat may be used as an additional indicator of overall berry ripeness. A graduated colour chart was developed to provide an objective index of seed coat colour and thus developmental status of seeds and berry. |
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| ISSN: | 1322-7130 1755-0238 |