Ampelography

What Is Ampelography?

Ampelography (from the Greek ampelos = grapevine and graphein = to describe) is the scientific discipline concerned with the identification, description, and classification of grape varieties. This science is essential for viticulture, as it helps to unambiguously identify grape varieties, uncover genealogical relationships, and clarify historical connections.

Methods of Ampelography

Traditional Morphological Methods

Classical ampelography is based on detailed observation of the vine's external characteristics:

• Leaf shape and structure: Shape of leaf sinuses, serration, hairiness of the underside
• Cluster shape: Size, density, and shape of the grape cluster
• Berry characteristics: Size, color, skin thickness, shape
• Shoot tips: Coloration and hairiness of young shoots
• Wood maturity: Coloration and structure of mature wood

This method requires years of experience and can lead to uncertainties with similar varieties or clones.

Modern DNA Analysis

Since the 1990s, DNA analysis has revolutionized ampelography. Through genetic fingerprinting, grape varieties can be unambiguously identified and genealogical relationships precisely determined. This method has led to surprising discoveries:

• Cabernet Sauvignon is a natural cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc
• Chardonnay and Pinot Noir share the same parent vines
• Many supposedly independent varieties are actually mutations of an original variety (e.g., Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc)

Significance for Viticulture

Ampelography is of great importance for several reasons:

1. Varietal authenticity: It ensures that growers are actually planting and cultivating the desired grape variety
2. Preservation of genetic diversity: Rare and historic grape varieties can be identified and preserved
3. Quality control: For appellations with strict varietal requirements, unambiguous identification is essential
4. Research: Understanding genetic relationships helps in breeding new, resistant varieties
5. Wine history: Historical connections and migration routes of grape varieties can be traced

Famous Ampelographers

Among the most important ampelographers in history are:

• Pierre Viala and Victor Vermorel: Between 1901 and 1910, they authored the monumental seven-volume Ampelographie, describing over 5,000 grape varieties
• Hermann Becker: German ampelographer of the 20th century, specialized in German grape varieties
• Jose Vouillamoz: Swiss ampelographer and DNA researcher who decoded numerous genealogical relationships

Practical Application

In modern viticulture, ampelography is primarily used when:

• Old vineyards are rediscovered and the grape varieties are unclear
• Historic grape varieties need to be reconstructed
• Varietal authenticity must be verified for new plantings
• Clonal selection for optimal adaptation to sites takes place
• Counterfeit or mislabeled wines need to be uncovered

Thanks to ampelography, we now know much more about the fascinating genetic diversity of the grapevine and can preserve the heritage of centuries-old grape varieties for future generations.