Anthocyanin copigmentation and color of wine: The effect of naturally obtained hydroxycinnamic acids as cofactors.

Copigmentation of anthocyanins accounts for over 30% of fresh red wine color, while during storage, the color of polymeric pigments formed between anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins predominates. Rosmarinic acid and natural extracts rich in hydroxycinnamic acids, obtained from aromatic plants (Origanum vulgare and Satureja thymbra), were examined as cofactors to fresh Merlot wine and the effect on anthocyanin copigmentation and wine color was studied during storage for 6months. An increase of the copigmented anthocyanins that enhanced color intensity by 15-50% was observed, confirming the ability of complex hydroxycinnamates to form copigments.

Evolution of phenolic compounds and metal content of wine during alcoholic fermentation and storage.

Changes in the principal phenolic compounds and metal content during the vinification process and storage under modified atmosphere (50% N2, 50% CO2) of Merlot and Syrah wines, from grapes cultivated in Greece, have been investigated. Comparing the variation of metals at maceration process, with the variation of monomeric anthocyanins and flavonols, an inverse relationship was noticed, that can be attributed to complexing reactions of polyphenols with particular trace elements. Cu decreased rapidly, whereas a similar behavior that could be expected for Fe and Mn was not confirmed.