Unraveling Grape DNA with Dr. José Vouillamoz

Episode Description (Optimized for Apple & Spotify) Grape geneticist Dr. José Vouillamoz returns to the Vint Wine Podcast with host Billy Galanko for a deep dive into the DNA, history, and origins of iconic French and Swiss grapes. Co-author of Wine Grapes, José has spent decades decoding grape lineages and uncovering where the world’s most important varieties truly come from. In this episode, we spotlight his new book Les Grands Cépages, exploring 12 major French grapes, from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to Savagnin and Viognier, while also revisiting Switzerland’s native gems like Chasselas, Cornalin, Arvine, and Räuschling. We also dig into how DNA tools have evolved, why “grape patriotism” often clashes with science, and how nearly-lost vines have shaped modern wine. If you’re curious about grape origins, terroir expression, or the genetic stories behind classic varieties, this episode is for you. In this episode, you’ll learn:What an ampelologist does and how José uses DNA, history, and vineyard archaeology to study grapevinesHow grape DNA research evolved from early markers to whole-genome sequencingThe true family trees of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot, and othersWhy some regions fiercely claim “ownership” of certain grapes, and when the science disagreesHow Swiss grapes like Chasselas, Cornalin, and Arvine express terroir and age in surprising waysWhy Swiss wines are hard to find but can be outstanding value at the top endWhat’s next for José: ungrafted vines, ancient clonal material, and future books on Italy and beyond Episode Timestamps / Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to the Vint Wine Podcast 00:23 – Introducing Dr. José Vouillamoz 01:15 – French & Swiss Grapes Overview 03:50 – Inside the World of Grape DNA 08:59 – How DNA Techniques Have Evolved 14:08 – Switzerland’s Native Grapes 16:42 – The “Grand” French Grapes (Les Grands Cépages) 18:31 – Origins, Myths & Grape Stories 24:21 – Merlot’s Surprising Parentage 27:54 – Cabernet Franc’s Journey & Chenin/Sauvignon Origins 32:56 – Standout Swiss Varieties & Terroir 34:21 – Cornalin, Merlot Blanc & Chasselas 47:17 – Swiss Wines on the Global Stage 50:57 – Future Projects & Discoveries 54:12 – Conclusion and Farewell The Vint Wine Podcast is hosted and produced by Billy Galanko. For more content follow Billy on Instagram @BillyGalanko_wine_nerd and for partnerships and collaborations please email billy@sommeliermedia.com. Cheers!