Influences on Variety, Growing Region, Winery, and Aging on the Anthocyanin Pigment Composition of Red Wines

The goal of this research project is to understand the relationship between anthocyanin pigment profiles and the varietal origin of red wine. Based upon recent research in this area there is some evidence that the varietal origin of red wine could be determined by analyzing its anthocyanin pigments. This project is being conducted under very rigorous conditions to determine if varietal determination can be determined in this manner. The results of this research have significant economic implications with regard to access to the European market.

In the current year, an HPLC method has been developed and validated by determining anthocyanin retention behavior, UV-visible spectra, and mass spectra. In addition, a cursory examination of red wines indicates that further study is warranted.