Ep. 129: The DNA of Wine - Renowned Grape Geneticist José Vouillamoz

Vint Podcast

In this episode of the Vint Podcast, Brady Weller and Billy Galanko sit down with famed wine grape geneticist and researcher, José Vouillamoz. José is a renowned Swiss botanist and geneticist, celebrated for his pioneering contributions to the field of viticulture. With a Ph.D. in plant genetics from the University of Lausanne, José has become one of the foremost experts on the DNA profiling of grapevines. His groundbreaking research has significantly advanced our understanding of grapevine origins, relationships, and diversity.

Collaborating with esteemed colleagues, including Jancis Robinson and Julia Harding, he co-authored the seminal work "Wine Grapes," a comprehensive guide that explores the DNA evidence behind over 1,300 grape varieties. José's meticulous studies have uncovered the parentage of many ancient grape varieties, shedding light on the complex history of viticulture across different regions.

In addition to his academic pursuits, José is a sought-after speaker at international conferences and a respected consultant for vineyards and wine producers around the world. His passion for both the science and heritage of wine makes him a unique and influential figure in the wine industry, bridging the gap between genetic research and practical viticulture.

Chapters:

00:52 Special Guest Introduction: José Vouillamoz, the Foremost Grape Geneticist

02:02 Weekend Wine Tasting Adventures and Discoveries

07:57 Diving Deep into Grape Genetics with José Vouillamoz

08:41 Jose's Journey into Grape Genetics and DNA Profiling

11:09 Unveiling the Origins of Swiss Grape Varieties

13:17 The Impact of DNA Profiling on Wine Genetics and Regional Identities

18:35 Exploring the Foundational Grape Varieties and Their Global Influence

21:35 The Genesis of the Wine Grapes Book with Jancis Robinson and Julia Harding

24:50 Founder Grape Varieties and Their Significance

25:04 Exploring the Roots: The Ancestry of Famous Grape Varieties

26:46 The Science Behind DNA Profiling in Viticulture

35:02 The Impact of Genetic Diversity on Wine Varieties and Climate Adaptation

41:11 The Future of Viticulture: Clonal Identification and Terroir Expression

46:38 The Role of Rootstocks in Combating Climate Change

48:45 Leveraging Genetics for Improved Winemaking and Vineyard Management

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Cheers!
Past Guests Include: William Kelley, Peter Liem, Eric Asimov, Bobby Stuckey, Rajat "Raj" Parr, Erik Segelbaum, André Hueston Mack, Emily Saladino, Konstantin Baum, Landon Patterson, Heather Wibbels, Carlton "CJ" Fowler, Boris Guillome, Christopher Walkey, Danny Jassy, Kristy Wenz, Dan Petroski, Buster Scher, Andrew Nelson, Jane Anson, Tim Irwin, Matt Murphy, Allen Meadows, Altan Insights, Tim Gaiser, Vince Anter, Joel Peterson, Megan O'Connor, Adam Lapierre, Jason Haas, Ken Freeman, Lisa Perrotti-Brown,...