Research needs and expectations in the grape and grape products sector

Grapes and grape products account for 13% of global fruit and nut output and one-quarter of its exports. The sector has experienced a sharp drop in planted area and significant shifts in consumer preferences. The major forces affecting results have been the globalization of production and marketing, the swift progress made in pest and disease control, the strong pressures for reduced chemical use and more environmentally friendly practices, and the increased importance of "non-traditional" producers. Research is needed to help the sector adjust to these forces. Research needs in viticulture center on clonal selection, genetics and breeding, ecology, physiology, cultural practices (including pruning) and mechanization. The needs in enology center on the impact of viticultural practices on wine quality, the reduction of ethyl carbamate levels in wine, wine making processes such as the extraction of color and flavor in red wine making, and the genetic engineering of yeasts. The priority research objectives in economics are to improve the coverage and quality of information systems, to identify and evaluate emerging market opportunities, to evaluate alternative production strategies including new systems of pest control, to assess changes in consumer behavior, and to evaluate alternative competitive strategies and public policies affecting the sector.