DNA analysis is leading to the revival of endemic wine varieties

Applying paleogenetics to analyze our archaeological finds (in other words, studying the past through the examination of genetic material found on the remains of ancient organisms) has led us to important discoveries. Lately, the worldwide wine industry is experiencing a revival of wine making based on endemic grapes. In this regard, the findings from our research are aiding viticulturists in Israel to better understand the agri-historical significance of the grapes they are working with. At the same time, our novel methodology bridges between old world horticultural species (grape cultivars, in our instance) and new word know-how and mechanisms and can be gainfully applied within other pax-Mediterranean historical viticultural contexts.