Here’s why massal selection is popular with winegrowers

ercier nurseries have been conducting massal selections since 2006, and have even rolled out small-batch fermentations and tastings of the resultant wines. They survey old vines prior to clones to identify the vines that match these criteria over an extensive area in order to broaden genetic diversity. “For Malbec, we went as far as Argentina”, says Olivier Zekri, head of research and development at the company’s Novatech laboratory, which checks that the vines are free from grapevine fanleaf virus and leafroll-associated viruses. Only vines that are free from these two virus diseases are propagated. “We then plant them in assessment blocks in order to identify the best ones, compared with a reference clone”, he adds.

It takes at least eight or nine years to establish the agronomic and oenological characteristics of the selections and check their stability. “It’s an investment and adds an average 20% to the cost of the plants”, explains Laurent Hilaire, deputy director of the nursery. But this hasn’t dampened demand. “The wines produced from these selections are our best ambassadors!” claims Zekri.

Guillaume nurseries focus on the same segment. “Our massal selections produce wines with an excellent flavour profile”, comments Pierre-Marie Guillaume. The company now markets several Pinot noir massal selections whose common feature is that they have loose clusters that are not very prone to botrytis. “We are also trying to bring down alcohol content”, adds Guillaume. The massal selections cost 10 to 15% more than clones of the same grape variety. Pinot noir and Chardonnay massal selection vines – that are in highest demand – account for a third of the nursery’s sales.