Primary and secondary characterization of a Vermentino grape clones collection

Vermentino is one of the main grape variety cultivated in the west Mediterranean region, mainly in France (Provence and Corsica) and in Italy (Sardinia, Tuscany and Ligury). Due to the high quality of its monovarietal wines, Vermentino has increased its importance in the last two decades, while previously has been regarded as a minor variety covering small surfaces. Through clonal selection Vermentino clones have been patented and diffused among growers in Corsica and in Italy. On a collection of 14 Italian and Corsican Vermentino clones, ex situ preserved in Sardinia, ampelographic data, phenological stages, and agronomic characteristics, such as yield, bud fertility, bunch and berry weight, pH, acidity and SST of must, were recorded from 2004 to 2005. The description of the Vermentino genotypes evidenced the identities and the distinctive traits within the clones collection, increasing the information on their agronomic performance in a common area of cultivation.