Scientists identify previously unknown grapevine varieties on La Palma

La Palma is drawing fresh attention from wine scientists after researchers confirmed the existence of grapevine varieties that had not been described before, a finding presented at the XVII National Congress of Enology, known as GIENOL 2026, held in Córdoba from April 13 to April 16.

The work was led by María Francesca Fort Marsal, a researcher at the Universitat Rovira i Virgili, with the collaboration of Lin Yang, who received second prize for best oral presentation at the meeting. Their team analyzed genetic samples taken from traditional vineyards on La Palma and found a level of varietal diversity that had not been documented in scientific literature.

According to the researchers, the island’s long geographic isolation, its farming traditions and its varied growing conditions helped preserve these vines over time. The vineyards studied are spread across elevations ranging from 200 to 1,500 meters, in terrain shaped by steep slopes and multiple microclimates. Those conditions have made La Palma a point of interest for scientists studying how grapevines adapt to changing environments.

The findings were discussed during sessions on April 14 and April 15, where participants examined how these local varieties have survived for generations and why they may offer clues for agriculture under climate stress. For researchers and growers, the island now serves as a natural setting for studying grape biodiversity and resilience.

The project also reflects cooperation between the Consejo Regulador of the DOP Vinos La Palma and the island’s Cabildo, which have been working to protect and promote the area’s wine heritage. Their involvement has helped support research into native vines and the broader effort to preserve agricultural identity on the island.

Interest in the presentation was strong among attendees, not only because of the scientific value of the discovery but also because of what it could mean for future breeding programs and conservation work. The identification of previously unknown varieties may give researchers new material to study as they look for vines better suited to warmer and more variable growing conditions.