U.S. professor trying to build computer tools to make better wine

Distinguishing fine wine from plonk is usually left to connoisseurs and winemakers, who rely on their senses, rough chemical measurements and the whims of nature to produce an exceptional tipple.

But a Carnegie Mellon University professor, working with industry scientists in Chile, is hoping that &to=http://english.pravda.ru/culture/2003/02/18/43443.html' target=_blank>computer models will identify the traits of good wine _ eventually helping vintners produce more of it.

Lorenz "Larry" Biegler, who teaches chemical engineering at the university, is working on mathematical formulas to automate the fermentation process, adjusting ingredients and conditions to ensure robust flavors and higher yields from grape harvests.