Characterization of the nearly extinct ‘Albilla’ cultivar from Galicia and its relationships with other Spanish ‘Albillos’

Abstract

Aims: This work contributes to the knowledge of the genetic diversity of Vitis vinifera L. with the characterization of the non-referenced cultivar ‘Albilla’ by ampelographic description and molecular markers. This will be useful for the preservation, identification and propagation of this cultivar in the future.

Methods and results: Six microsatellites (SSRs), 55 OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine) morphological descriptors and 45 phylometric traits were evaluated in two accessions of ‘Albilla’ preserved in the Germplasm Bank of EVEGA (Estación de Viticultura e Enoloxía de Galicia), Xunta de Galicia. Additionally, we set out to determine whether this cultivar was distinct from the yet uncharacterized ‘Albillo’ cultivars found in the Canary Islands. These methods allowed us to describe the cultivar known as ‘Albilla’ and to compare it with other homonym cultivars.

Conclusions: The ‘Albilla’ cultivar is different from other genotypes denominated ‘Albillo’ and any other genotype described until now. This may indicate that it could be an autochthonous cultivar from Galicia.

Significance and impact of the study: The characterization of cultivars is still necessary in order to identify any homonyms or synonyms, develop measures for their conservation (germplasm collection) and evaluate their potential for producing quality wines.