Comparative analysis of 4 Georgian grape cultivars. Vitis vinifera strain:cultivars

In the present investigation the nuclear and mitochondrial DNA of four Georgian grape cultivars, one from each haplogroup (as defined by Tabidze et al., 2014), was sequenced. These cultivars are: Chkhaveri (haplotype GTA), Saperavi (haplotype ATT), Meskhetian green (haplotype ATA) and Rkatsiteli (haplotype AAA). These cultivars produce different type of wine. Rkatsiteli is the most valuable and common Georgian local white wine grape. Its birthplace and the main area of distribution is Kakheti region. Rkatsiteli is used for production of high quality table wine of both Kakhetian and European type. Rkatsiteli's old table wine has very distinctive and pleasant bouquet. Saperavi ranks first in the value of red wine grapes of Georgia. Wine from Saperavi is characterized by a bright ruby color, the powerful extract content, with harmonious taste and rich bouquet. Samples of some areas have specific valuable properties, finesse, freshness and velvety color shades like burgundy wines. Chkhaveri - this sort of wine has a pale pink color, pleasant fresh taste and harmonious acidity reminiscent of Moselle wines, sufficient strength, increased extract content and natural sweetness. Chkhaveri is mostly cultivated in the piedmont district tries of Western Georgia near the Black Sea. Meskhetian green is white grape cultivar, distributed in Meskheti, a mountainous area in southwestern Georgia (Beridze, 1962).