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This research project investigated the grape ripening process at a molecular level and the changes in that process in response to various environmental conditions. Grapevine (Vitis vinifera) is the most economically important fruit species worldwide, with more than 7.4 million hectares planted in vineyards. The value of any table grape, grape juice or wine product is fundamentally dependent on healthy, high quality fruit, and fruit quality in any vineyard can vary from year to year and the inconsistency is largely attributed to changes in microclimate and viticulture management practices. The genetic determinants of grape quality are practically unknown in Vitis. This project made strides to establish genomic resources for genes associated with berry quality traits, develop methods and tools to isolate and link favourable traits and predict how microclimates and viticultural practices can modify cell signaling and metabolic pathways. Early investment in this project led to additional project investments in WineGen and Grape and Wine Genomics.