SSR and SNP genetic profiling of Armenian grape cultivars gives insights into their identity and pedigree relationships

The South Caucasus is recognised as the primary Vitis vinifera L. (grapevine) domestication centre and has a high diversity of wild and cultivated grapevines. Archaeological findings indicate that winemaking activities have existed in Armenia for more than 6,000 years, viticulture being one of the most important activities of the modern Armenian agricultural sector. Despite this relevance, some grapevines in local collections have not yet been properly identified, thus hindering the efficient conservation, characterisation and eventual use of autochthonous genetic resources. In the present study, a combined SNP and SSR profiling strategy was used for the genetic identification of a series of grapevine accessions from the Grape Collection of the International Academy of Viticulture and Winemaking in Nalbandyan, presumed to be autochthonous Armenian varieties. The results provided useful information for the correct identification of these genetic resources, revealing multiple cases of synonyms, homonyms and misnames. The genetic data made it possible to confirm the pedigree proposed for some of the cultivars identified in this study and to clarify the origin of others. In addition, we propose, for the first time, a series of new trios and duos involving autochthonous Armenian grapevines. The singularity of this genetic pool compared to other Western and Central European varieties, as well as the potential novel sources of variability in traits of interest (e.g., seedlessness) that were found, highlight the importance of improving knowledge of the Armenian grapevine genetic pool.

Automated summary

The South Caucasus is recognized as the primary center of origin of European grapevines, with a long history of winemaking in Armenia. However, some local grapevine varieties have not been properly identified, hindering the conservation and use of autochthonous genetic resources. This study used genetic profiling to identify Armenian grapevine varieties, revealing synonyms, homonyms, and incorrect names, as well as proposing new genetic trios and duos. This unique genetic pool in Armenia shows potential for novel sources of variability in desirable traits, emphasizing the importance of understanding Armenian grapevine genetic diversity.