Which processes occur during veraison?

• A. Skins become more elastic
• B. Green chlorophyll is broken down
• C. Anthocyanins are synthesized
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Veraison marks the start of ripening in grapes, when the berry switches from rapid growth to metabolic changes that drive ripening. During this stage the skin becomes more elastic to accommodate the continuing increase in berry size, as the cell walls loosen and the cuticle changes, allowing expansion without tearing.

At the same time, the green chlorophyll pigment is broken down, so the berries lose their green hue and reveal other pigments beneath. In red and other colored varieties, this is also when anthocyanins start to be synthesized and accumulate in the skin, producing the characteristic color change from green to red, purple, or blue.

All of these processes are characteristic of veraison, so they occur together as the berry begins to ripen.