Canopy Management Strategies Under Climate Change: Responses of Vitis vinifera L. cv. Saperavi to Pre-Flowering Defoliation in Kakheti

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of early basal leaf removal (ELR) on vine physiology, berry composition, and wine quality in Vitis vinifera cv. Saperavi, cultivated in Georgia’s Kakheti region, in Akura village (Telavi district, Kakheti, Eastern Georgia) on moderately fertile alluvialcalcareous loamy soils typical for the Alazani Valley viticultural area. Akura is characterised by a moderately continental climate with warm summers and mild to moderately cold winters. The vines were 21 years old. Three defoliation intensities: intensive (8 basal leaves removed), moderate (4 leaves removed), and control (no leaves were removed) were applied prior to flowering. Intensive ELR moderately reduced yield via smaller berry and cluster size but significantly enhanced technological and phenolic maturity. Observed improvements included higher soluble solids, reduced malic acid, elevated phenolic content, lower disease incidence, and increased extract levels in the resulting wine. Importantly, this study represents the first systematic, data-driven investigation of ELR in Georgian Saperavi vineyards, providing modern viticultural guidance under the current climate context. In light of climate change, ELR is presented as a practical strategy for achieving uniform ripening and improving fruit and wine quality.