Physicochemical Characterisation of Montepulciano Wines (Vitis vinifera L.) from High-Altitude Santa Catarina Region in Brazil During Bottle Ageing

Wines produced in high-altitude regions (above 900 m) in Santa Catarina, Brazil, have gained recognition for their high quality, intense colour, aromatic complexity and balanced sensory profile. Among the emerging grape varieties cultivated in this region, Montepulciano (Vitis vinifera L.), traditionally grown in central Italy, has gained increasing attention. This exploratory study evaluated the evolution of Montepulciano wines from the 2020/21 vintage during bottle ageing over 12 months. Colour parameters were determined using the CIELab system (a*, b*, and L*), volatile compounds were analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), phenolic compounds were analysed by high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-QqTOF-MS), and antioxidant capacity was analysed by ABTS•+ and DPPH assays. The wines exhibited measurable changes in colour, volatile compounds, selected phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity during the 12-month storage period. Overall, the results indicate that the wines produced from Montepulciano grapes cultivated in the high-altitude regions of Santa Catarina exhibited distinct chemical trajectories during bottle storage, highlighting the exploratory potential of monitoring their chemical evolution over time.