Microsatellite characterization of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) genetic diversity in Asturias (Northern Spain)

The genetic heritage of the Asturian grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) has been declining over the past century due to the phylloxera attack and the further abandonment of this culture. In addition, efforts in recent years to restore the Asturian vineyard with the pulling-up of old vineyards and replanting with cultivars endorsed by Cangas Quality Wine regulations are contributing even more to this genetic erosion. The aim of this study was the evaluation and identification of the phytogenetic resources of the Asturian grapevine. A total of 293 accessions were collected in old vineyards and analyzed through nine microsatellite markers. Forty-two different genotypes were obtained, including six profiles with allelic variations. Only 27 cultivars were identified when compared with national and international databases; some of them had not been found in this region before. Homonymies and synonymies have also been detected. These results provide an overview of the status of current grapevine phytogenetic resources in Asturias. Despite the substantial genetic erosion that the Asturian vineyard has suffered, a higher variability than expected has been detected. The finding of new grapevine genotypes is a fact of great importance. The genetic grapevine resources are being drastically reduced all over the world, so this new genetic material has to be included in germplasm banks for its conservation and further agronomical and enological evaluation.