In the ancient settlement of Cetamura del Chianti, located within Italy's renowned Chianti wine region in Tuscany, 2,000-year-old grape seeds were discovered at the bottom of ancient wells. Research led by Dr. Oya İnanlı from the Department of Archaeology at York University has revealed through ancient DNA analysis that this region, now world-famous for its red wine, was actually prominent for white wine production during antiquity. This discovery holds significant importance for understanding ancient viticultural technologies and the agricultural continuity between Etruscan and Roman periods.
Genetic Legacy Preserved in Oxygen-Free Mud
Archaeologists examined grape seeds preserved in exceptional condition within oxygen-deprived layers of mud at the bottom of wells dated between 300 BCE and 300 CE [1]. Genetic testing revealed that the majority of the 80 seeds analyzed belonged to a single grape variety directly transmitted from the Etruscans to the Romans and maintained for centuries [2]. Researchers indicate that genetic markers suggest this dominant, long-lived clone had a 92.2 percent probability of producing white grapes.
Roman Empire's Expanding Agricultural Network
The emergence of entirely new grape varieties in Chianti after Roman settlement indicates that the empire transported its preferred grape types to newly conquered territories [3]. Among the discovered seeds were varieties directly related to those currently cultivated in Eastern Europe, particularly in Hungary and Slovenia. Additionally, these ancient seeds were found to be closely related to certain Roman-era grape varieties grown in southern France. Researchers emphasize that this points to the existence of a broad agricultural trade network across the Roman Empire, which laid the groundwork for standardized viticulture.
References and Further Reading
- [1] Ancient DNA proves Chianti was once a white wine mecca
- [2] Ancient DNA shows Chianti grew white grapes 2,000 years ago
- [3] DNA from 2,000-year-old grape seeds points to origins of modern winemaking | Italy | The Guardian
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