By this point, it is well known that wine (particularly red wine) is associated with many health benefits, including a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, lower risk of obesity, and potentially increased neural function after spinal cord injury. In regards…
Effects of Climate Change on Phenolic Composition of California Pinot Noir: Implications for Vineyard Management
As I sit here on this gorgeous 65-degree day in February (in Virginia), I can’t help but think about global warming. Regardless of how you believe it was caused, be it by anthropogenic sources or a natural cycle of the…
Organic Viticulture Practices Lead to Increased Soil Quality Over Time Compared to Conventional Farming Methods
Organic farming has become increasing popular in all areas of agriculture, including the field of viticulture. Between 2001 and 2008, the area of organically farm vineyards in France increased by 110%. In organic viticulture, organic fertilizers and some non-synthetic pesticides…
The Academic Wino is on Vacation!
I just wanted to make a quick note to let you know that there will be only one post up this week (Tuesday’s post: Chestnut Wood as an Alternative to Oak Wood: Differences in Aromatic Potential) since Becca is on…
Chestnut Wood as an Alternative to Oak Wood: Differences in Aromatic Potential
Nearly every single person reading this blog is well aware of the fact that fermenting and aging wine in oak barrels adds wood-specific sensory characteristics to the wine, which come from certain volatile chemicals in the wood interacting with the…
New Formulations of Fungicide May Alter Sensory Characteristics in White Wine
Fungicides are frequently used in viticulture to treat and prevent various diseases such grey mould (Botrytis cinerea), powdery mildew (Erisiphe necator), and downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola). New formulations of fungicides are currently being tested to replace older, more controversial applications,…
Higher Rates of Wine Consumption are Associated with Lower Rates of Traffic Fatalities: Suggestions for Policy Changes
There have been many studies performed examining the economic effect of alcohol policies in the United States (i.e. taxes and minimum drinking age), however very little has been done regarding the distribution of these alcoholic beverages. Currently in the United…
Creating a Healthier Wine: Influence of Winemaking Techniques on Phenolic Composition of Red Wine
As we’ve seen many times here on this blog and on many other sources, red wine is chock full of phenolic compounds that not only contribute to the sensory characteristics of the wine, but also provide numerous health benefits for…
Smoke Taint Revisited: What Progress Has Been Made?
The following article is a discussion between The Academic Wino and leaders in the wine treatment business in the United States. Interviews were conducted in November 2011, so any new research since then will not be included in the discussion.…