The key role of Moscato bianco and Malvasia aromatica di Parma in the parentage of traditional aromatic grape varieties

A great number of flavored grape varieties, of significant oenological potential, are traditionally cultivated in north-western Italy, besides the renowned Moscato bianco (syn. Muscat a petits grains blancs). Understanding their origin, besides its historical and scientific interest, would help to increase market appeal and consequently facilitate the commercial exploitation of these products. Twenty-four aromatic genotypes were investigated for their identity, kinship relations, and genetic origins through molecular markers (SSR and SNPs) supported by plant morphology and historical information. Flavored grape genotypes from other regions, possible ancestors, and reference cultivars of known pedigree were also included in the analysis. Kinship analysis used a likelihood-based approach (IBS, IBD, relatedness coefficients, and likelihood ratios) to achieve strong statistical support. The analyses revealed two possible leading genitors, in turn closely related by a parent/offspring relationship: Moscato bianco and Malvasia aromatica di Parma, a female grape cultivar that is today almost extinct. The outlined molecular and statistical approach could be applied for the investigation on the origin of ancient traditional cultivars of other vegetative propagated species.