Claire Donkin & Rupert Hargreaves

Global Plant Genetics (GPG) is pleased to announce a significant expansion of its grape portfolio with the introduction of five Pierce’s Disease–resistant wine grape varieties developed by the University of California, Davis. This milestone strengthens GPG’s commitment to delivering advanced genetic solutions for modern viticulture.

GPG represents specialist grape rootstock genetics developed to address key challenges in vineyard production. Our focus has been on nematode-resistant grape rootstocks that support vineyard performance in regions where soil health, pest pressure, and regulatory change are critical considerations. As European representative for UC Davis grape rootstocks, GPG manages the licensing and protection of GRN1 and GRN3 across Europe. These rootstocks enable growers to establish vineyards in nematode-affected soils without soil sterilisation, while also providing resistance to phylloxera.

Expanding into Wine Grape Genetics

Building on this foundation, the GPG Grape team will now introduce five PD-resistant wine grape varieties to Europe:

• Camminare Noir (red)
• Paseante Noir (red)
• Errante Noir (red)
• Ambulo Blanc (white)
• Caminante Blanc (white)

Developed through decades of breeding at UC Davis, these varieties combine durable resistance to Pierce’s Disease with strong fruit and wine quality, retaining key Vitis vinifera characteristics while offering resilience in PD-prone regions.

Growing Industry Recognition

The commercial relevance of these varieties is already gaining international attention. A recent feature in the Los Angeles Times explored the role of hybrid grapes in the future of California wine, highlighting plantings of varieties such as Ambulo Blanc and Paseante Noir in response to Pierce’s Disease pressures. The article reflects a broader industry shift toward disease-resistant genetics as a sustainable alternative to vineyard removal or increased chemical intervention.

Supporting Resilient Viticulture

For European growers operating in areas where disease risk and environmental pressures are increasing, these five varieties represent a new generation of solutions — combining resilience, sustainability, and wine quality potential.

With the addition of these UC Davis wine grapes alongside GRN1 and GRN3 rootstocks, GPG continues to expand its portfolio of scientifically advanced genetics designed to help vineyards thrive in challenging conditions.

For further technical information on availability and licensing, please contact the GPG Grape team.

solutions@globalplantgenetics.com