OENOLOGICAL POTENTIAL AND WINEMAKING TECHNOLOGIES OF WINES FROM TRADITIONAL AND ANCIENT SICILIAN CULTIVARS (VITIS VINIFERA L.)

This doctoral research investigates the enological potential of Sicilian grape cultivars by integrating viticultural, technological, and biodiversity-driven perspectives. Three complementary studies were carried out to address the challenges and opportunities of native germplasm within the framework of climate change and quality-driven winemaking. First, the influence of soil texture on grape ripening heterogeneity was evaluated in white (Grillo, Chardonnay) and red (Nero d’Avola, Syrah) cultivars cultivated on calcareous soils of different texture. Second, a technological approach was applied to Catarratto wines, a variety often affected by uneven ripening and the associated “unripe fruit” sensory perception. Finally, the oenological characterization of ancient Sicilian relic cultivars highlighted their dual role as reservoirs of genetic diversity and as adaptive resources to abiotic stress. Moreover, the wines obtained from these relic cultivars were subjected to sensory evaluation with final consumers, in order to assess their sensory profile, preference patterns, and potential market acceptance.