ampelograph

An ampelograph is a scientific illustration or detailed description of a grapevine, focusing on its morphological characteristics. These illustrations are crucial for identifying and classifying grape varieties, particularly in the field of ampelography, the study of grapes and their cultivation. Ampelographs typically depict various parts of the vine, including the shoot, leaves, tendrils, flowers, and fruit, often at different stages of development.

Historically, ampelographs were hand-drawn by artists or botanists, often from living specimens. These detailed visual records were essential before the advent of modern genetic analysis. They served as a standardized method for distinguishing between the thousands of grape varieties that exist, helping to resolve confusion and ensure accurate naming and cultivation practices.

The term "ampelograph" can also refer to a book or publication containing a collection of such illustrations and descriptions. These works have been invaluable resources for viticulturists, breeders, and researchers for centuries. While genetic profiling is now the primary method for definitive variety identification, ampelographs remain important for understanding the historical context of grape cultivation, for educational purposes, and for identifying specimens when genetic analysis is not feasible. The level of detail in an ampelograph aims to capture unique features that differentiate one variety from another.