Italy: The first varieties of homemade grapes appeared in the South Caucasus 4000 years ago

Published 2021년 12월 27일

Tridge summary

Researchers from the University of Udine and the Institute of Applied Genetics in Italy have discovered that grapes, now widespread in Europe, were first domesticated in the South Caucasus about 4000 years ago. This finding was based on a genetic analysis of a large number of grape varieties throughout Europe and the South Caucasus. The researchers suggest that the crossbreeding of South Caucasus grapes with European grapes helped the grapes survive colder winters in Europe and led to the diversity of the crop. An enzyme in wild grapes that was absent in European varieties was also identified, stimulating the production of growth hormone and increasing the size of the berries, making it suitable for both winemaking and human consumption.

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Original content

A group of researchers from the University of Udine and the Institute of Applied Genetics in Italy have found evidence that grapes, which are now widespread in Europe, were first domesticated in the South Caucasus. In their article, published in the journal Nature Communications, scientists describe genetic analysis of a large number of grape varieties throughout Europe and the South Caucasus, according to phys.org. The wines produced in Europe are known all over the world for their taste and quality. And such varieties as Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet are known far beyond the continent. It is believed that the grapes used to make the varieties listed were a cultivated version of an ancient European grape. In a scientific article, Italian researchers proved that this is not the case. By examining samples of grapes found throughout Europe and the South Caucasus (out of 204 cultivated and wild varieties), scientists discovered that their ancestors were ...

Source: Agroxxi