Montenegro at the center of grapevine genomic research: Kratošija as the key to European viticulture

The second phase of the most extensive genomic research on grapevines in Montenegro is underway, which could change the current understanding of the origins of Balkan and European viticulture.

Research teams, led by Professor Dr. Miodrag Grbić, continue the search for indigenous and old varieties that could represent one of the most significant genetic resources of grapevine in Europe.

In Boje jutra on TV Vijesti, Professor Grbić points out that the results of the work so far are already extremely significant. As part of the pilot study, 512 samples were analyzed, identifying as many as 51 grapevine varieties previously unknown to science.

"It was the largest systematic genomic project in Montenegro. The results were fantastic – we discovered 51 unknown grapevine varieties," said Grbić.

The research, published in 2020 in the journal Nature Scientific Reports, has attracted the attention of the international scientific community, although, as the professor points out, it has not been fully recognized at the local level.

One of the key findings of the research relates to the Kratošija variety, which Grbić claims occupies a central place in the genetic "pedigree" of Montenegrin viticulture.

"Kratoshija is at the center of the pedigree. She has produced about 20 offspring, which means she has been bred here for a very long time," he says.

Researchers have previously found wild and self-grown vines in several locations, indicating the exceptional resilience and longevity of indigenous varieties, he says.

"It is a relic of old vineyards. The vine grows without irrigation, without protection, without care, and survives. This tells us that these varieties are fully adapted to the climate," Grbić points out.

He believes that these varieties could be the key to the future of viticulture in the face of climate change.

Of particular interest is the research into the connection between Montenegrin grape varieties and famous world wines.

"We are conducting a study that shows that Kratošija is identical to the variety called Primitivo in Italy and Zinfandel in California," says Grbić.

As he states, it is one of the most widespread wine varieties in the world, which is now grown on four continents.

Grbić points out that Montenegro possesses exceptional biological and ecological diversity, which is rare in Europe.

"Montenegro is like Spain in miniature. In a small space you have the sea, mountains, lakes, canyons and endemic species. It's an ecological paradise," he says.

He warns, however, that this wealth must be preserved from excessive urbanization.

"Every undeveloped space is worth billions. Once it's concreted over, it's lost forever," says Grbić.

The second phase of the research is currently underway, with teams working in multiple locations across the country, including northern and mountainous regions. Citizens who have old vineyards or vines, the professor says, can get involved in the project.

"If we have the knowledge and indigenous varieties, we can build a recognizable wine identity for Montenegro in Europe," concludes Grbić.

The research continues, and the first new results are expected next year, when, as scientists announce, a national collection of indigenous grape varieties could be created.