Camenere, Bordeaux's Loss is Chile's Gain

I have heard of DNA testing in solving murders, paternity and even kidnapping, but this DNA test was off the vine. In 1994 the variety of Camenere, Chile’s signature grape was tested, it was thought to be a variant of merlot. Not so, it was discovered to be what was thought to be lost forever, Grand Vidure vines. Those vines were thought to be wiped out by phylloxear in Bordeaux in the late 19th century. Apparently cuttings were brought to Chile where they thrived. The wine is delicious with chocolate overtones and higher alcohol content.