Montevideo, Uruguay, September 5,2013 -Uruguayan chemist Francisco Carrau, collaborating with Italian scientist Massimo Delledonne, has sequenced the genome of the Tannat grape, an accomplishment that could mean even better taste and more health benefits from this already heart-healthy wine.

The Tannat, Uruguay's signature variety, produces wines with very high levels of tannins, anti-oxidants known to combat the aging of cells in the body. According to Professor Carrau , Tannat levels are twice those of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot or Pinot Noir. Tannat wines also contain high levels of procyanidins-three to four times those of Cabernet Sauvignon-substances that can reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol and encourage healthy blood clotting.

Knowledge of the Tannat sequence will be useful in planning for future vine improvement. In addition, the information could provide a breakthrough in growers' ability to characterize and select genes involved in disease resistance, potentially reducing the need for chemical spraying. "Such information can valuably guide decisions about where to plant new vines," said Carrau. "The ability to predict successful vineyard location holds enormous value."

Carrau's team is also studying the chemistry of wine's aromas and color and how environmental factors such as soil, climate and altitude affect the expression of genes in grapes. "If we can learn through biotechnology the factors that determine a wine's aroma and color, we can potentially apply that information to create more pleasing and valuable products," said Carrau.

Tannat wines by Bodegas Carrau are available at our Wine Cellar.