Grapevine clonal selection in Portugal: A different approach

The methodology for selection of an ancient grapevine variety conducted by PORVID (Portuguese Association for Grapevine Diversity) and the Portuguese Network for Grapevine Selection, focuses on quantitative genetic tools resulting in an integrated strategy that comprises two types of selected material – clonal and polyclonal – both carrying high genetic and economic gains for relevant agronomic and oenological traits. This work focused on the clonal selection methodology, particularly on the model for communication with users of selected materials (grape growers and winemakers). The approach is innovative, since detailed information of the whole experimental process leading to certified clones is provided, including predicted genetic gains for several traits and information about the clone’s environmental stability (G × E interaction). This last analysis, combined with the utilisation of several certified clones (approximately 7), contributes to a better adaptation to environmental changes.