Wine-grape genome

Here is a link to an article in today's Sacramento Bee talking about scientists "cracking" the wine grape genome. I notice that my gut reaction to "genetic engineering" of plants is negative, but when I think about it for a minute, I'm not sure why. Anyway, enjoy the article. I don't think you have to register at the site, but if you do, it is free. All the best, Jim

http://www.sacbee.com/103/story/347334.html

Here is another link to a similar article.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070826/sc ... 0826171318

Except maybe for scientists, science just takes the "magic" out of a lot things we like to ooh and aah at, wine's being one of them.

I imagine folks have been diddling consciously and not with grape genes since folks have been diddling with grapes ... crossing, hybridizing etc. ... some things intentional, others accidental ... the results often amazing.

Maybe taking it to the somewhat controllable test tube level and smaller just makes it seem wrong or scary, but it's nothing new. Somehow living with the magic and amazement is more fun for me. I don't know if I would enjoy what will potentially be an all-knowing 22nd century with my 20th century mind and mores.

And, on another leaf, always having the perfect pinot or chard or zin will make the whole wine thingy less fun. There's something about challenges and diversity which makes being a human interesting.

I don't know if I would enjoy what will potentially be an all-knowing 22nd century with my 20th century mind and mores.

Congratulations. You've just pointed out perfectly why we do not (and should not) live forever.