Research Reveals Physicochemical, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Properties of Red Wines from the Mostar Area

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Scientists at the University of Banja Luka have conducted a comprehensive study on the properties of red wines from the Mostar area in Bosnia and Herzegovina, specifically focusing on four red grape varieties: Blatina, Vranac, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. The research aimed to investigate the physicochemical, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of these wines. The study employed a range of analytical methods to determine the total phenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and antioxidant activity of the wines. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity was tested using the agar dilution method, and the minimum inhibitory and bactericidal values were determined.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study analyzed four red grape varieties from the Mostar area in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including Blatina, Vranac, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot.
  • The researchers found that the Vranac wine from the 2020 vintage exhibited the best antioxidant effect and the highest total phenolic content.
  • The antimicrobial activity was tested against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus, with B. cereus appearing to be the most sensitive bacteria.
  • The Blatina wines from both harvest years demonstrated the lowest antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.
  • Probiotic cultures, including Lactobacillus plantarum and Saccharomyces boulardii, proved to be resistant to the effects of wine.
  • A reliable correlation was found between the antioxidant properties and the antimicrobial effect on B. cereus and, in one case, on S. aureus and P. aeruginosa.
  • The study concluded that all grapevine varieties analyzed are suitable for the production of quality wines in the Mostar area.

Statistics:

  • The study was conducted over two consecutive seasons (2020 and 2021).
  • The physicochemical properties of the grapes, must, and wines were analyzed using standard methods recommended by the International Organization of Vine and Wine.
  • A total of 16 wines were analyzed in the study, including four red grape varieties from different harvest years.
  • The study found a reliable correlation between the antioxidant properties and the antimicrobial effect on 37.5% of the tested bacteria.

Sources:

  • Red wines from the Mostar area: Physicochemical, antioxidative, and antimicrobial properties. Foods and Raw Materials, 2024, 13(2):306-319. (Foods and Raw Materials - http://jfrm.ru)
  • Jovanovic-Cvetkovic Tatjana, University of Banja Luka. (Additional information may be obtained by contacting the researcher directly.)