DNA analysis of ancient grape seeds from Tuscany reveals that white grapes dominated Roman-era vineyards, challenging current perceptions of the region's wine history and suggesting a continuity that may have influenced modern winemaking practices.
This research rewrites a chapter of wine history by revealing the prevalence of white grapes in ancient Tuscany, suggesting a direct lineage that may have influenced modern winemaking and highlighting the sophisticated agricultural networks of the Roman Empire.
DNA extracted from 2,000-year-old grape seeds discovered in ancient wells in Tuscany has allowed scientists to reconstruct the most comprehensive genetic history of grapevines from a single site. The research, led by scientists at the University of York, indicates that vineyards during the Roman era were integrated into the empire's sophisticated agricultural systems, potentially influencing the development of modern winemaking.
The study, conducted at the Cetamura del Chianti archaeological site, revealed that white grapes were prevalent, a finding that surprised researchers given the area's current fame for red Sangiovese wines. Dr. Oya Inanli, a co-author from the University of York, stated that the DNA sequencing of 80 seeds showed a remarkable continuity, with a majority belonging to a single variety passed down from the Etruscans to the Romans and maintained for centuries. Genetic markers confirmed this dominant clone produced white berries.
Nancy De Grummond, a professor at Florida State University involved in excavations at the site since 1973, commented that the findings add a significant chapter to the history of wine in the Chianti region, noting the surprise of discovering a preceding white vintage. Following the Roman conquest, new grape varieties emerged at Cetamura, suggesting the introduction of vines from other parts of the empire. Genetic analysis also linked the dominant Cetamura vine to ancient grape seeds found in southern France, providing biological evidence of extensive agricultural networks across the Roman Empire that may have contributed to the standardization of wine production seen today.