Ludovic Orlando

Ludovic Orlando is a research director at the CNRS (French National Centre for Scientific Research). He is currently newsworthy due to his involvement in a French scientific study that sequenced the genomes of ancient grape seeds, some dating back 4,300 years. This research sheds light on the history of viticulture and the evolution of grape varieties. The recent study revealed that the Pinot Noir grape variety existed in France as early as the 15th century, during the time of Joan of Arc. This discovery was made through DNA analysis of a grape seed found in the latrines of a 15th-century hospital. Orlando's work demonstrates that winemaking and grape cultivation have been practiced for at least 2,500 years, and that some grape varieties have remained genetically consistent for centuries. This research is significant because it provides valuable insights into the long and complex history of wine production and the development of important grape varieties.