Comparison of Four Merlot Clonal Selections in the Salinas Valley

摘要

The viticultural performance of four selections of Merlot was evaluated in a vineyard near Soledad in the Salinas Valley of California. All clonal material originated from the Foundation Plant Material Service (FPMS), University of California, Davis. Merlot selections FPMS 1, 3, 6, and 8 were evaluated for five years (1993 to 1997) for yield, growth, and fruit composition parameters. All clonal material was harvested on the same date. Yield was similar for FPMS 1, 3, and 6 and significantly lower for FPMS 8. Yield differences were due to cluster size and weight. Pruning weight was highest for FPMS 8; intermediate for FPMS 3 and 6; and lowest for FPMS 1. Brix and pH were higher for FPMS 8.