Ancient DNA from a lost Negev Highlands desert grape reveals a Late Antiquity wine lineage
Cohen P, Bacilieri R, Ramos-Madrigal J, Privman E, Boaretto E, Weber A, Fuks D, Weiss E, Erickson-Gini T, Bucking S, Tepper Y, Cvikel D, Schmidt J, Gilbert MTP, Wales N, Bar-Oz G, Meiri M.
Abstract
The modern winemaking industry is heavily reliant on a limited number of European grape cultivars, which are best suited for cultivation in temperate climates. Global warming emphasizes the need for diversity in this high-impact agricultural crop. Grapevine lineages bred in hot and arid regions, often preserved over centuries, may present an alternative to the classic winemaking grape cultivars. Our study of a legacy grapevine variety from the Negev Highlands desert of southern Israel sheds light on its genetics, biological properties, and lasting impact. The modern-day close relatives of the archaeological grapes may now provide an exceptional platform for future studies on grapevine resilience to aridity.
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