Researchers Make Database of World's Wine Grapes

(LaboratoryEquipment) - Univ. of Adelaide researchers have compiled statistics from 44 countries to develop the first database of the world's wine grape varieties and regions.

The new database, funded by the Grape and Wine Research and Development Corporation (GWRDC), provides an in-depth analysis of the world's wine varieties and wine grape growing nations that account for 99 percent of global wine production.

Univ. of Adelaide School of Economics Prof. Kym Anderson says a database of this nature has been highly sought by the wine industry.

"In the wake of wine's globalization, wine producers need to exploit their geographical and varietal distinctiveness in order to boost their competitiveness. This database, for the first time, offers transparency across the world's wine varieties and regions," Anderson says.

This detailed database also uncovers more about changing trends in wine consumer behavior.

"The database reveals that 20 years ago Airen, a white wine grape variety from Spain, was the most widely grown globally, but now Cabernet Sauvignon is the world's most grown wine grape," Anderson says.

"In 2000, white wine grapes were more widely grown; however, in the decade to 2010 red wine grapes increased their share of the global vine-bearing area from 49 percent to 55 percent. This is consistent with what we know about changes in wine consumption, with numerous countries moving away from white and consumption rising in recent years in China where red wine is preferred."

Anderson says wine growers can also use this database to adapt to climate change. "Wine producers are well aware of the impact climate change is having on their wine grapes. They're continually on the lookout for attractive varieties that perform well in climates similar to what they expect theirs to become in the decades ahead."

Stuart Thomson, GWRDC Executive Director, says this database is an exciting new tool for Australian wine producers.