DNA From 2,000-Year-Old Grape Seeds Shows Dominant White Variety at Tuscan Site

DNA extracted from 2,000-year-old grape seeds recovered from ancient wells at Cetamura del Chianti in Tuscany has produced the most extensive genetic history of grapevines from a single site. University of York researchers sequenced the DNA of 80 seeds. A large majority belonged to one identical variety that passed directly from the Etruscans to the Romans and was maintained for centuries.

Genetic markers showed the dominant Cetamura clone produced white berries. The finding surprised researchers because the Chianti region is now known for red sangiovese wines. Cetamura del Chianti is a hilltop archaeological site excavated by Florida State University since 1973.

The settlement was inhabited by Etruscans, then Romans, then medieval Italians between 300 BC and 300 AD. Grape pips were preserved in oxygen-free mud in deep wells.

She added: “We were also able to go a step further with the genetic testing and determine the colour of the ancient grapes. ” Nancy De Grummond, a professor at Florida State University, said: “Our team’s research adds an important chapter on the history of wine in the viticulture region of Chianti. ” After the Roman conquest of the settlement, new grape varieties appeared at Cetamura.

Genetic testing showed the dominant Cetamura clone is closely related to two ancient grape seeds previously tested from southern France. The researchers said the relationship provides biological evidence of long-distance agricultural networks across the Roman empire that might have contributed to standardised wine production.