Edaphic diversity in vineyards at Montesa and Torresalas (DOP Somontano, NE-Spain)

Abstract

Soils are characterized, classified and evaluated in two areas near Barbastro (Montesa and Torresalas), in the Somontano Protected Designation of Origin (NE-Spain). Under a xeric humidity regime, the properties and formation of the soils are closely related to their position in the relief and, especially, to their parent material. In Montesa, on Oligo-Miocene marls and sandstones, Calcisols predominate, with occasional Cambisols in less stable geomorphological units. In Torresalas there are two very different zones, with Gypsisols on Oligo-Eocene gypsum and Calcisols on detritic deposits of a Pleistocene alluvial terrace. Regarding the suitability for vineyard cultivation, in Montesa high values of the Vigor Potential index and moderately weak values of the Precocity Potential have been obtained. In Torresalas, both indices show greater heterogeneity, with Vigor Potential ranging from weak to strong, and Precocity Pontential ranging from moderately weak to moderately strong. The white varieties (Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay) acquire a high minerality on Gypsisols, which gives the wines a peculiar personality. The red varieties prefer to grow on the rest of the soil groups, very carbonated, where the wines acquire an adequate level of tannins and quality.