Can Chile save its ancient Cabernet Sauvignon vines?
A crowdfunding campaign seeks £350,000 to preserve ancient vines in Chile and secure the future of Cabernet Sauvignon amid climate change.
Chile is leading a bold effort to save a pre-phylloxera clone of Cabernet Sauvignon. Agricultural engineer Max Morales and Francesca Bridgewater FCIM are spearheading the project to establish an Ancestral Vines Genetic Rescue Centre. The initiative aims to protect and propagate the unique genetic material of these historic vines.
A global effort to preserve heritage
The campaign has drawn support from respected wine geneticist Dr José Vouillamoz, co-author of Wine Grapes with Jancis Robinson MW. It focuses on vines in Chile’s Laja Valley, part of the Bío Bío region. These 140-year-old plants are among the last untouched lineages of Cabernet Sauvignon, predating the phylloxera outbreaks that devastated vineyards worldwide in the 19th century.
Chile’s natural defences have kept its vineyards free from phylloxera, preserving the purity of its vine genetics. “This genetic material will not only be heavily researched but also prepared to meet the evolving challenges of Cabernet Sauvignon cultivation worldwide,” says Morales.
The campaign builds on Morales’ years of work under the Chile Vitivinícola 2.0 initiative. His efforts focus on climate resilience and reviving heritage vines.
“This isn’t just about Chile,” Morales explains. “It’s about protecting one of the world’s most iconic grape varieties for future generations. The legacy of San Rosendo owes much to visionary French settlers who created a thriving wine cluster here. That legacy deserves to be rediscovered and celebrated.”
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Crowdfunding for climate resilience
Funds raised will create a Genetic Rescue Centre. This facility will develop a “Chilean Clone” of Cabernet Sauvignon, designed to resist environmental threats and modern pests.
Chile’s global role
Chile has earned global recognition for its Cabernet Sauvignon, with regions like Maipo Valley producing highly regarded wines. This new initiative could enhance Chile’s role in shaping the future of winemaking.
Morales and his team are also working to save other historic vines, including Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and País. They urge wine lovers and industry leaders to support the campaign. “Chile has all the tools to lead a viticultural revolution. The time to act is now.”
This project offers hope for the future of viticulture, ensuring Cabernet Sauvignon’s legacy and paving the way for sustainable practices worldwide.
Donations can be made via the campaign’s JustGiving page.
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