Scientists examining how a grapevine responds to smoke-induced stress are uncovering a myriad of protective measures. Everyone I spoke with emphasised how complex the topic is and how we are at the beginning of understanding this topic.
Nevertheless, scientists have identified some of the genes responsible for triggering defence mechanisms, a range of chemical processes implemented to boost and redeploy energy reserves, and varietal differences, all of which points to the progress being made.
It is impossible to develop robust products to help industry without understanding what happens inside a grapevine under smoke stress. To read about some of the fascinating discoveries thus far, take a look at my piece for SevenFifty Daily.
Image courtesy of Alex Cassegrain, Cassegrain Wines