Toward the authentication of varietal wines by the analysis of grape (Vitis vinifera L.) residual DNA in must and wine using microsatellite markers.

In an attempt to develop a technique for the identification of grape cultivars in commercial wines, a method for the extraction of DNA from must and experimental wines was adapted and optimal PCR conditions for the amplification of this DNA were established. DNA was analyzed during the fermentation process for six cultivars (Chardonnay, Clairette blanche, Grenache noir, Merlot, Muscat blanc à petits grains, and Syrah). The extractions were performed on solid parts in suspension as well as on the aqueous fraction. Expected profiles for these cultivars were obtained with DNA extracted from the solid parts during all of the fermentation process and for the wine. The analysis of DNA extracted from aqueous fractions was less reproducible, and microsatellite amplifications were obtained only in the case of Clairette blanche, Merlot, and Syrah wines. Results demonstrate that the purification process is adequate for the analysis but that the DNA concentration represents the main limiting factor. Technical improvements of the method are discussed.