DNA from 2,000-year-old grape seeds points to origins of modern winemaking
Researchers at the University of York analyzed DNA from 2,000-year-old grape seeds found in Tuscany, revealing that ancient Roman vineyards were part of a sophisticated, standardized agricultural network. The study also discovered that white grapes were the dominant variety in the Chianti region during that era.
Why it matters
This research provides new insights into the history of viticulture and the economic integration of the Roman Empire.
The research also suggests long-distance agricultural networks across the Roman empire that may have been the forerunners of standardised production. Photograph: Christian Delbert/Alamy View image in fullscreen The research also suggests long-distance agricultural networks across the Roman empire that may have been the forerunners of standardised production. Photograph: Christian Delbert/Alamy Italy DNA from 2,000-year-old grape seeds points to origins of modern winemaking Researchers also discover that the ancient vines of Chianti, famed for its red wines, produced white fruit
The article is a straightforward summary of scientific findings.
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