T. Yoncheva, R. Mincheva, G. Dyakova
Agricultural Academy, Department of Vine Selection, Enology and Chemistry, Institute of Viticulture and Enology, 5800 Pleven, Bulgaria
Agricultural Academy, Department of Selection of Field Crops and Vines, Institute of Agriculture and Seed Science “Obraztsov Chiflik”, 7000 Rousse, Bulgari
(Manuscript received 05 June 2026; accepted for publication 27 August 2026)
e-mail: t_ion@abv.bg
Abstract. During the period 2020-2024, a study was conducted on the technological characteristics of the white wine grape variety Kristalen. The research was carried out at the Institute of Agriculture and Seed Science “Obraztsov Chiflik” – Rousse and the Institute of Viticulture and Enology – Pleven and covered 5 consecutive harvests. The changes in the climatic factors in the growing region were monitored each year as well as their influence on grape quality. The grapes were processed using the classical technology for white wine production under microvinification conditions. The chemical composition of the grapes was determined for each vintage as well as that of the experimental wines made. The grapes from the 2024 harvest had the best indicators, which showed the highest sugar accumulation, titratable acids content and glucoacidimetric indicator. The 2023 harvest had the lowest values of the studied components. No general trend was established regarding the analysed chemical indicators in the composition of the experimental white wines. The highest alcohol content was found in the 2021 vintage, while the highest levels of residual sugars and phenols were determined in 2023, of total and sugar-free extract – in 2024, and of titratable acids – in 2022. An organoleptic analysis was also performed of the experimental wines. The wine with the best sensory profile in terms of colour, aroma, and taste was the 2022 vintage, which was evaluated as the most harmonious and well-balanced