Genetic relationships among grapevine varieties grown in different French and Spanish regions based on RAPD markers

The genetic relationships among 32 white grapevine varieties (Vitis vinifera L.) grown in different French and Spanish regions were surveyed by using RAPD markers. Two hundred and eight clear and unambiguous RAPD markers were amplified by using 33 primers previously selected. Genetic relationships were established by UPGMA cluster analysis and also by studying RAPD low frequency bands. Three groups of varieties were clearly defined. The stability of the genetic structuration was surveyed by Student t-test and the confidence for certain nodes of the dendrogram was confirmed by bootstrap method. Varieties were separated in clear geographical groups with Atlantic or Mediterranean influence. Some of them were classified according to a common cultivation area and ampelographic characters, suggesting a common origin. In addition, 'Albarino', 'Caino Blanco' and 'Loureiro Blanco' from Galicia (Spain) and 'Melon', 'Chardonnay' and 'Aligote' from Burgundy (France) were closely related varieties. Two new closely related couples were defined as 'Godello' and 'Verdejo', and 'Malvar' and 'Malvasia'.