Abstract
The aim of this paper was to establish the correspondence between the anthocyanic profiles of grapes and wines produced in Uruguay. For this purpose, Tannat, Cabernet-Sauvignon and Merlot vineyards in 2002 and 2003 were considered. Grapes samples were taken in the harvest and were peeled, and the skins were stored at -20 degrees C until analysis. After that, skins were macerated in a 12% ethanol and pH 3,2 solution for 24 hours. Vinifications were carried out with 50 kg of grapes and two replications per vineyard. The anthocyanic composition of the skins extracts and the wines were analysed by H.P.L.C. Delphinidin, petunidin and non-acylated glucosides proportions were significantly higher in Tannat skins and wines. Malvidin and acetates proportions were significantly higher in Cabernet-Sauvignon grapes and wines. Peonidin and coumarates proportions were higher in Merlot skins and wines. The relation between the acetyl and coumarylic forms allowed the differentiation of Cabernet-Sauvignon grapes and wines from Merlot and Tannat, but not these among themselves. The combined consideration of the anthocyanic forms proportions allowed the discrimination of the totality of the grapes and wines samples of each variety