Viticultural and oenological characterization of Muscat a Petits Grains Blancs and Muscat giallo clones

In the present study, viticultural and oenological parameters of six clones of Muscat a Petits Grains Blancs (MPG) and five clones of Muscat giallo were investigated. Differences were found between varieties and clones in the occurrence of the phenological phases: bud break, véraison, and maturity. In the MPG clones (B41-5, FR 94, MPG 154, MPG 454, and MPG 455), all three phenological phases started earlier, resulting in earlier grape maturity and higher total soluble solids content (TSS) in grapes at harvest compared to the M. giallo clones (R1, VCR100, VCR 102, and VCR 5, BEMK 33). The MPG clones also resulted in higher cluster weight, higher yield per vine, and lower must pH compared to the M. giallo clones. The only exception was the MPG clone R2, which showed more similarities with the M. giallo clones. The wines of the MPG clones showed a tendency toward higher values for alcohol, citronellol, total acids, and total dry matter. In contrast, the wines of the M. giallo clones and the R2 clone of MPG showed higher pH and higher levels of linalool, α-terpineol, geraniol, and nerol. Although R2 is classified as a clone of MPG, our results indicate a strong similarity with the M. giallo clones studied. This study has highlighted the differences in phenological development and grape and wine quality characteristics between MPG and M. giallo clones. Therefore, clone selection can be an important tool for winemakers to develop the desired wine style and adapt to climatic changes.