Phenolic composition of red grapes grown in Southern Italy

The phenolic composition of red grapes native to Southern Italy (Aglianico, Carignano, Frappato, Gaglioppo, Negro Amaro, Nero d'Avola, Primitivo, Tintilia, and Uva di Troia) and an "international" grape (Cabernet Sauvignon) introduced into the Apulia region were investigated. Results showed that these cultivars could be divided into two groups on the basis of both their anthocyanin content and the presence of ortho-hydroxylated groups. Further differences regarded the ratio between flavans reacting with vanillin and proanthocyanidins. The anthocyanin profile of the skin of Negro Amaro, Primitivo and Uva di Troia grapes was found to be a specific characteristic of the grape variety which was affected only slightly by the place of growing. The different phenolic composition of the cultivars determines a different aptitude to wine production. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, due to their high concentration in polyphenolic substances, could be added to the native grape varieties in order to produce wines with a more complex aroma.