Italians crack open DNA secrets of Pinot Noir “Discovering these

Italians crack open DNA secrets of Pinot Noir

“Discovering these 2 million molecular markers is a tremendous tool which will help in the breeding not only of Pinot Noir but every cultivated grape variety”

By Ben Hirschler

LONDON, Dec 19 (Reuters Life!) – Italian scientists have cracked open the genetic make-up of Pinot Noir, responsible for the great red wines of Burgundy, in a breakthrough that may lead to hardier vines and cheaper fine wines.

The researchers said on Wednesday they had found more than 2 million genetic variants within the Pinot Noir grape, providing winegrowers with a “treasure trove” in the hunt for new strains.

Pinot Noir, made famous by the 2004 film Sideways, has been dubbed the “heartbreak grape” because it is so difficult to grow and susceptible to disease. Read more