• Charles Sturt researcher Dr Joanna Gambetta is a finalist in the 2019 Australian Women in Wine Awards
• Dr Gambetta’s research aims to help grape growers and winemakers adapt to changing climates
• The award winners will be announced in New York in September

Charles Sturt University (Charles Sturt) scientist Dr Joanna Gambetta (pictured) from Wagga Wagga has been announced as a finalist in the 2019 Australian Women in Wine Awards for her innovative research in viticulture and wine science.

Dr Gambetta’s research at the National Wine and Grape Industry Centre (NWGIC) is focused on understanding how the aroma composition of wine and grapes is affected by things such as temperature changes.

“Aroma is one of the key components of the quality of a wine,” Dr Gambetta said.

“My current research is examining how grapes respond to a series of abiotic stresses caused by changes in the climate and how these impact the production of important aroma compounds and their precursors.

“I hope that understanding the effects of heat on the formation of aroma compounds of grapes will allow producers and researchers to develop effective strategies to mitigate the effects of short- and long-term climate cycles.

“Having this knowledge may also lead to reduced economic losses due to lower quality fruit and wine.”

Dr Gambetta has also examined the impact of the timing of leaf removal from the vine on sun damage to the grapes in Orange, NSW.

NWGIC Director Professor Leigh Schmidtke said, “Dr Gambetta is an outstanding, engaging and highly motivated young researcher, and her work is making an important contribution to our understanding of the factors affecting grape and wine quality.

“We are proud to see her recognised as a finalist in the Australian Women in Wine Awards.”

The Australian Women in Wine Awards, operated by The Fabulous Ladies’ Wine Society, celebrate and reward the work of women in the Australian wine community.

Dr Gambetta is one of three finalists in the Researcher/Innovator of the Year category and the winner will be announced at a ceremony in New York on Wednesday 18 September (AEST).

The NWGIC is an alliance between Charles Sturt, the NSW Department of Primary Industries and the NSW Wine Industry Association.