@article {Herrera Nu{\~n}ezajev.2010.10008, author = {Jose C. Herrera Nu{\~n}ez and Solange Ramazzotti and Fabio Stagnari and Michele Pisante}, title = {A Multivariate Clustering Approach for the Characterization of the Montepulciano d{\textquoteright}Abruzzo Colline Teramane Area}, elocation-id = {ajev.2010.10008}, year = {2011}, doi = {10.5344/ajev.2010.10008}, publisher = {American Journal of Enology and Viticulture}, abstract = {A multivariate clustering approach combined with geomatics was applied to delineate and define homogeneous zones (terroir units), within the premium Denomination of Guaranteed Origin (DOCG) Colline Teramane wine-growing area, in the Teramo Province (Italy). A geographical information system (GIS) architecture was set up to incorporate the main factors affecting the geographical differentiation of land capability. Vine-related environmental indices and parameters were interpolated and incorporated in the GIS. A principal component analysis followed by a multivariate clustering algorithm was applied to obtain a continuous topography-climate map, in which each cluster represented an homogeneous zone or terroir unit. Further characterization of the terroir units was then obtained by overlaying the topography-climate map with land use information and a geologic map of the same area. This territory classification provides a useful framework for further hypotheses testing, in particular vine interaction with environment or new cultivars suitability. Moreover, the approach represents a potential tool for rational territory management and land use planning.}, issn = {0002-9254}, URL = {https://www.ajevonline.org/content/early/2011/02/23/ajev.2010.10008}, eprint = {https://www.ajevonline.org/content/early/2011/02/23/ajev.2010.10008.full.pdf}, journal = {American Journal of Enology and Viticulture} }