THE WINEGRAPE GLOSSARY

[Used with permission by Anthony J. Hawkins]

GLOSSARY FOREWORD

The following Wine-grape Glossary, containing a clickable INDEX listing and other clickable internal text links, is designed to aid individuals interested in knowing something about the fruit that is transformed into his or her favorite wine. It can be downloaded in either its ascii or hypertext format by the reader for free distribution among individuals. The only restriction is the right of authorship credit which should be retained on all copies made. The glossary file, (approx. 400+ Kb), will translate into about 220 pages of hardcopy text.

Because the potential scope is huge, only the more commonly grown or known popular grape-names are referenced. Written for the benefit of non-specialists, it is hoped that inaccurate taxonomy references will be overlooked, although a strong effort is made to limit the number of errors. Seekers of latin-style botanical names, hybrid-grape numberings, vine ampelographic descriptions etc. are advised to refer to an appropriate resource. Occasionally encountered alias lesser names are highlighted in accessed text but not "jumpably" link-referenced because they are not regarded as being important. Also, in order to allow conformity to current international standards and successful searches, an attempt has been made to use variety name spelling emulating that found in the Geilweilerhof database mentioned below (eg. the use of variety name suffixes such as "O.P" and "S.P" meaning "Open Pollinated" and "Self Pollinated" respectively) - although changes and modifications may be made from time to time as new facts emerge in the literature.

INTRODUCTION

An example is that there is no such thing as "the" Pinot Noir. In fact accuracy demands that it be referred to as "a" Pinot Noir because the name does not belong to a unique vine species but to what the french grower calls a "cépage", that is, a growth defined as a group of closely related but not quite identical vine species sharing the same genetic background. These different strains of Pinot Noir are technically known as "clones", usually individually identified by adding a secondary name that refers to a special characteristic, place name or clone developer etc. It has been estimated that there are a minimum of forty-seven Pinot Noir clone versions currently, (1996), planted in the vineyards of Burgundy and nearby districts in France alone - resulting in a great variation of wine quality and aging ability etc. The same sort of situation applies to many other strains of the "cépages nobles", or "noble varieties", such as the Riesling and others.

Another example is the assumption, commonly made, that the highly regarded red Bordeaux wines are made entirely from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape. In fact many of the famous "great crus" vineyards in Pomerol and St.Émilion contain none at all. It is mainly grown in the Médoc and Graves subdistricts and even there is only one of several vine varieties, recent figures showing that fully 40% of the grapes grown consist of Merlot. Normally the wine made from Cabernet Sauvignon is blended with wines made from such distantly related grapes as the Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and others.

CLASSIC VINIFERA VARIETIES AND SYNONYMS

Clickable INDEX to Classic Vinifera Varieties and Synonyms

VARIETY NAME

Recently - (4-97) - discovered to be one of the parent grape varieties that gave rise to the Cabernet Sauvignon cultivar. Mainly found in cooler, damper climatic conditions than its offspring. Shows moderately vigorous growth and earlier wood and crop maturation than Cabernet Sauvignon. Recommended for grafting to the 3309 rootstock in New York state where it has shown good winter hardiness. Ohio researchers are currently (1999) testing the 1616 and 18-815 rootstocks. Widely grown in the Loire region where it is known as the Breton and in large areas of southwest France where it is sometimes known as Bouchy or Bouchet. Other french synonym names are Carmenet, Gros Bouchet, Grosse Vidure and Veron. In N.E Italy the variety is known as the Bordo winegrape. Bordeaux wines commonly contain a blend of both Cabernet varietal wines, a practice increasingly being followed in California and elsewhere. Wine from these grapes has a deep purple color, when young, with a herbaceous aroma. Just like Cabernet Sauvignon, North American growth is mainly confined to the cooler coastal regions; Long Island (N.Y.) and the Pacific Northwest showing signs of being very hospitable. New Zealand has also proved to be a potential good home.

A "noble" grape famous as one of the main varieties, along with Merlot, Cabernet Franc and others used to create the magnificent french Bordeaux region blended red wines. This variety has several alias names such as Petit Cabernet, Petite Vidure and Vidure. (The latter name is the one used by those who subscribed to the now dubious theory that it was the original vine from which the cépage originated). Where grown in Italy it is sometimes referred to as the Uva Francese. Although recorded as present in the Bordeaux region since at least the 17th century, parental provenance has always been unsure. Recent research, (Meredith and Bowers, "Nature Genetics Journal" 5-97), has unexpectedly discovered that the original parents of this variety were Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc, an astounding reversal of previous assumptions. A "hard" grape, it helps make wines of classic breed, intensity and complexity that often need to bottle-age for at least 5-10 years in order to reach peak flavor condition. The most successful plantings in North America are mainly on Long Island (N.Y.) and the cooler regions of northern California. The vine is quite cold-hardy, although it acclimates slowly and can be injured by cold freezes in December and early January. In New York state the recommended rootstock graft is 3309. It has a late bud break, is relatively resistant to cracking and bunch rots, has vigorous growth and ripens in late October. In the warmer regions of California, grapes made into a single varietal wine will often produce higher than optimum levels of alcohol due to high sugar content and, conversely, lower than optimum acid levels in most years and so may tend to age less successfully than the blended french versions. Aromas and flavors include: Black-currant, blackberry, mint (etc). In the last decades of the twentieth century many other countries have seen their regions develop into prime producers - (e.g: Argentina, Chile, Italy and New Zealand).

(aka Feinburgunder and Morillon in Austria). This variety is the best-known white-wine producer grown in France and known to be one of the recently determined (1999) 16 direct descendants of the Pinot Noir x Gouais Blanc ancient crossing. Is occasionally misleadingly known as Pinot Chardonnay in the Mâcon and Chablis regions, an invented synonym name for the benefit of Anglo/American consumers reportedly derived from an earlier period when the variety was mistakenly (?) considered to be a white mutation of Pinot Noir. Other local names in the various regions of France include the aliases Aubaine, Auvernat, Beaunois, Epinette Blanche, Petite Sainte-Marie and Weisser Clevner etc. The Chardonnay vine is widely planted in the Burgundy and Chablis regions. Clone variety numbers commonly used include 76, 95, 124 and 548, plus some others, grafted to suitable calcium/lime tolerant, moderately vigorous rootstocks such as 41B or 161-49C. There, as in other cool climate regions, the wine made from it is often aged in small oak barrels to produce strong flavors and aromas. Possessing a fruity character (e.g: Apple, lemon, citrus) subsequent barrel-influenced flavors include "oak", "vanilla", and malolactic fermentation imparted "creamy- buttery" components. Hugely successful in many regions of the world due to its mid-season ripening (late September to early October) and versatility. Quite cold-hardy although early to bud and susceptible to bunch rots, yet retains fruit crispness in warmer growing years. Australia and New Zealand have succeeded in producing world-class wines in recent years, from selected clones of this variety, by using cold fermentation methods that result in a desired "flinty" taste in the dry versions. Currently popular clones in New Zealand include the heavy cropping clone #'s 4 and 5. Others include the "Mendoza" and #6 for heavy fruit set. Clone #15, a shyer bearer than #6, has produced highly rated wines in most regions.

A widely grown white-wine producing variety, known as Steen in South Africa, Pineau de la Loire in the Loire region of France and under the alias name White Pinot (Pinot Blanco) elsewhere in the world. Often made in a number of styles with or without some residual sugar. It is the favored grape of the Anjou region of France and, although naturally a hard, acidic grape slow to mature, is made into fine sweet wines that age well for a least ten years in the bottle. In the U.S. the grape all too often ends up in the generic jug wines of bulk producers as acidity enhancer for otherwise flabby high sugar/alcohol blends.

A clone of the parent Traminer variety. Widely grown, having literally dozens of synonym names in various countries including Traminer Rot. Best known as one of the mainstay grape varieties for which the french Alsace region is famous the popular Gewürztraminer produces white wines with a strong floral aroma and lychee nut-like flavor. It is often regarded as somewhat similar in style to the (Johannisberg) Riesling - (below) - when vinified as slightly sweet yet tart. Occasionally it is made into a "botrytized" late harvest dessert style wine. Does well in the cooler coastal regions of Western U.S. - (where it ripens in late September) - Australia and New Zealand. In Australia the variety is also known under several alias names. Among these are Traminer Musque, Gentil Rose Aromique and Red Traminer. Cool climate growers should be aware that, in addition to quite large successful plantings of the above variety, a well-regarded cross named Traminette, developed by Cornell University in the U.S.A over the last 30 years, is currently very successfully cultivated on small commercial acreages in the Finger Lakes region of New York State and several other cool northern regions of the USA.

(aka White Riesling in New York state (USA), Ontario and British Columbia (Canada), Riesling in Germany, Rheinriesling in Austria, Riesling Renano in Italy and Rhine Riesling in Australia). A white-wine producer variety widely grown along the Rhine river and tributaries - (e.g: Rheingau, Rheinhessen, Mosel, Nahe regions etc.) - in Germany and also in other cool temperate regions of Europe. It is also grown in N. America, where it can produce a flowery, fruity dry wine with high acid and low alcohol not unlike the german "Kabinett" version or a semi-dry style with some residual sugar similar to the german "Spätlese" version. If infected with appropriate amounts of "botrytis", it can make outstanding late-harvest wines - (e.g: comparable to the german "Auslese" series). The Finger Lakes region of New York state in the U.S. and the Niagara region of Ontario, Canada produce excellent dry versions in the Mosel and Alsation styles in addition to consistent freezing temperature extracted juice made into "ice-wine", (aka "eiswein"). Successful clones in New York include the Neustadt selected Clone 90 (recommended by the Frank winery), Clone 198, Clone 239 of the Mosel (also recommended for the Niagara region) and Clone 356 from Geisenheim. Growers in the Niagara region of Ontario, Canada, have found that the Weiss 21-B clone gives a very good Upper Mosel style of wine with racy acidity and delicate but firm fruit. Clone 239 gives a fruitier, more Rhine-like wine than the Weiss. Growers on the North-West coast of N. America, presumably using U.C Davis selected clones, seem to creat the richer, earthier Rheinhessen taste in many versions, as do the cooler regions of California. Australia now produces excellent versions of the dry, crisp Alsation-style, as well as fruitier semi-sweet Mosel-type wines, as has New Zealand in recent years. A recent report (Regner, F., et al., Wein-Wissenshaft, 53(3), 114-18, 1998) has shown that this variety, along with Elbling, and Silvaner, are derived from certain ancient crossings of the even more ancient Heunisch (Weiss) and Frankisch varieties now considered to be the progenitors of all our modern winegrapes; the core cultivar of the former variety being identical to Gouais Blanc.

Classic grape widely grown in the Bordeaux region of France and elsewhere. The red wine bears a resemblance to Cabernet Sauvignon wine, with which it is sometimes blended, but is usually not so intense, with softer tannins. Matures earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon, with mid-late ripening. Moderate cold-hardiness. In California it is a popular varietal on its own and also as a percentage constituent of the red wine blend resembling Bordeaux claret called "Meritage". It does extremely well in the state of Washington and shows great promise on Long Island, N.Y. Results in the Finger Lakes region of N.Y., where it ripens in early October, have been mixed due its relative lack of cold-hardiness and the fruit subject to bunch rots. Recently some have claimed that many of the labeled Chilean varietal wines are actually of the Carmenère variety. Other countries such as Argentina and New Zealand also seem to have a suitable climate for this variety. The grape has many alias names such as Petit Merle, Vitraille, Crabutet Noir and Bigney.

Another "cépage" family of clone varieties, making both red and white wines. Most are of the muscat type, having the unique aromatic character commonly associated with muscat wines. These include the Muscat Blanc, (a.k.a Muscadel, Moscato di Canelli), all alias names for the premier cépage varietal Muscat Blanc à Petit Grains. These clones are mostly used for making medium-sweet and dessert style table or fortified wines. An example of these is "Constantia", a centuries-old wine blend still made in South Africa from the Orange Muscat grape, a darker skinned mutation of the Muscat Frontignan clone, (the latter also known as the Brown Frontignac in Australia), and wine made from the Pontac, a red-wine grape translocated from south-west France. Small acreages of Orange Muscat in the Central Valley of California allow a local variation of this wine to be made by at least one producer, a situation that also occurs in Australia. Hot climate producers of sparkling wines often use the various Muscat grape clones to create wines in the style of Italian Spumante. Lesser regarded clones of the cépage include Muscat of Alexandria and others.

The premier grape "cépage" of the Burgundy region of France, producing a red wine that is lighter in color than the Bordeaux reds (such as the Cabernet's or Merlot). Cépage clones of this variety have many alias names such as Auvernat Noir, Blauer Klevner, Coraillod, Noirien, Schwartz Klevner, Vert Dore, and even plain numbers. It has proved to be a capriciously acting and difficult grape for N. American wineries, best results being obtained in cool, fog-liable regions such as the Carneros region of northern California. Choice of a suitable clone version is critical, as is careful vineyard pruning technique and planting density. The importance of clone version is amply demonstrated with the recommendation of the "Wadensville" (Wädenswil) and "Mariafelder" (Klevner Mariafeld) clones, the latter ripening in mid-October, for use in the Finger Lakes region of New York State where they have consistently produced quality wines despite not being as cold-hardy as some other clones. Oregon growers seem to have a preference for the "UCD5 (Pommard)" clone. The worlds best "quality" wines are reputed to result from a mixing of suitable clones; a common practice in Burgundy, France, where numbers 667, 777 and 828 appear to be currently favored in addition to the reliable 114 and 115 when grafted to suitably limestone tolerant, moderately vigorous rootstocks such as Fercal and 161-49C. Cherished aromas and flavors often detected in varietal wines include cherry, mint, raspberry, truffles and the ubiquitous gamey odor in new wines often referred to as "animalé" by the french winemaker. German growers know this grape under several alias names, such as Spätburgunder. In Italy the variety is known as Pinot Nero. Growers in New Zealand are reported to use the AM 10/5, Bachtobel and UDC5 (Pommard) clones as dominant choices. The mutant clone variety known as Pinot Meunier is widely planted around the world under several alias names and is used to produce the main blending wine for so-called "Blanc de Noir" sparkling wines. In California the cépage has often been erroneously divided into various Gamay varieties until recent times. A new study (Meredith, Bowers et al, Science 9/99) has determined that many of the varieties for which Burgundy is justly famous, such as Chardonnay, Gamay Noir etc, all trace back to a cross that occurred between this variety and Gouais Blanc.

Classic white-wine producer variety commonly planted in the Bordeaux and eastern Loire regions of France. Shows vigorous growth and is late maturing. Members of the cépage are now thought to be descendants of the ancient Fié variety once common in the Loire region of France. The sauvignon cépage apparently derives the latter part of its name from the color of its skin. Other members include the recent - (4-97) - genetic parental link to Cabernet Sauvignon and other mutations known as the Sauvignon Noir, Sauvignon Jaune and Sauvignon Rose. The last named grape is also known as Sauvignon Gris. In the Styria region of Austria the variety is occasionally referred to as the Muskat-Sylvaner. All versions of the cépage show a tendency towards a grassy, herbaceous flavor in the grapewine, often referred to as "gooseberry" by professional tasters, when the grapes are grown in temperate regions. In warmer regions, the flavors and aromas tend to be more citruslike, (e.g: grapefruit or pear), plus the characteristic "earthy" taste. New Zealand has had much success with the grape in recent years.

Classic grape widely grown in the Bordeaux region of France and elsewhere. This grape variety has a distinct fig-like character. In France, Australia and increasingly in California it is often blended with Sauvignon Blanc to cut some of the strong "gooseberry" flavor of the latter grape and create better balance. Wineries in many countries also use the grape to create dry single-varietal white wines. Australian grapes, particularly those grown in the Hunter Valley region where the fruit has also been historically known as Hunter (River) Riesling, are famous for producing dry and sweet wines from this varietal that will age admirably for 20 to 30 years. Another alias name used for this variety is Boal/Bual in its incarnation as one of at least four varieties using the same name for use in fortified wines on the island of Madeira. Back in France, it has the synonym names Chevrier, Columbier, Malaga and Blanc Doux. Those grown in South Africa, where the grape is known as the Green Grape and also as Semillion, have not fared so well in popular favor and are not extensively planted at present. When infected by the "noble rot" fungi, (Botrytis cineria), it can be used to produce first-class sweet white wines such as those of the french Sauternes.

A grape variety associated with the Rhone Valley region of France, famous for creating "Hermitage" red wine. In southern France some regard the grape as taking two forms, the Grosse Syrah and Petite Syrah, distinguished only by berry size. Experts reject this distinction but it has in the past led some wine producers in North and South America to mistake California vineyard plantings of Petite Sirah, which produces a very dark red and tannic wine judged simple in comparison to the true Rhone Syrah, as the latter grape. DNA analysis has now shown (Meredith C.P., et al., "Am. J. Enol. Vitic." 50(3): 236-42 1999) there is in fact a probable cross-variety relationship. In the cooler regions of Australia a (presumed) clone of the Rhone variety, once known as the Scyras, is grown very successfully and now known as Shiraz. In the state of California, depending on location, vintage or fermentation technique, the grape is used to either produce a spicy, complex wine or a simple wine. Considerable acreage is grown in South Africa, and also in Argentina where it has historically been called the Balsamina grape until the late 1960's.

Red-wine grapevine cultivated in Basilicata and Campania regions of Italy. In the latter province it has the alias names Agliatica, Ellenico, Ellanico, Gnanico and Uva Nera. Of extremely ancient origin, it is responsible for some of the better sturdy red wines of southern Italy - (eg: "Aglianico del Vulture"). Appears to have been used to produce Falurnum, a well-documented favorite wine of the Romans. The name "Aglianico" is reported to be late 15th century corruption of the italian word "ellenico", meaning "hellenic", presumably acknowledging the original home of this variety. The grape is also used to make good bronze-colored rosé-style wine.

Minor grape originating from a 19th century vinifera cross using the Aramon and ancient Teinturier native vine, resulting in a variety possessing the pink flesh and deep red coloring characteristics of its ancient ancestor. This in turn was crossed with the Grenache to give the named grape - (which should not be confused with "Alicante" the old name for Grenache presumably derived from the city in Spain). Widely grown in France, California and Spain. In the latter country it is known as Garnacha Tintorera. In the cool Champagne region of France it is the main grape used to make the sweet "vin mousseux" - (sparkling wine). Often also confusingly known as "Alicante" for short - (see above). Reduced acreages can also be found in Australia. Portugal retains a limited acreage of 100 year old vines used for producing an interesting wine named "Mouchão" that requires 10 years aging for best results. Historically the canned juice has been used by many amateur winemakers for fermenting homemade wines. The Geilweilerhof Database (above) lists many synonyms for this variety.

Semi-classic grape (known to be one of the recently determined, 1999, direct descendants of the ancient Pinot Noir x Gouais Blanc crossing) widely grown in temperate regions of France, California and Eastern Europe. There are reportedly two mutated varieties grown in the Bouzeron AOC of Burgundy, the productive Aligoté Vert that ripens early with a tendency to high acidity, and the Aligoté Doré having a moderate yield with higher sugar levels than the former variety in cooler years. They are used to make a superior white wine, with little or no aging ability and best drunk young, for blending or as a good dry wine in the better vintage years in Burgundy, France. Successfully used in the cooler western coastal regions of North and South America.

Patented (1992) cultivar developed and released around 1988 by the ARO Horticulture Unit, Volcani Center at Bet-Dagan, Israel. Derived from a cross between Souzao and Carignan. Ripens some 1-3 weeks earlier than the latter parent (ie. about mid-August to early September). Resistance to Powdery Mildew also appears superior. Designed to be a hot-climate tolerant variety, it has minimal frost resistance. Vigorous and productive, on Richter 110 and Ruggeri 140R rootstocks, the cultivar is self-fertile, resulting in medium size, moderately compact fruit clusters. Tested as a deeply colored red-wine varietal wine, with a peppery aroma and satisfactory to average acidity and tannins, it produced adequate body and balance. Current usage has been confined to some blends with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Sirah that seem to show aging possibilities.

French local name for the Malbec, a.k.a Côt red wine grape species grown in the Cahors region of France and also, confusingly, an important white-wine producing variety in the Alsace region called the Auxerrois Blanc that is distinct from another locally grown white-wine producer variety called the Auxerrois Gris that is actually the Pinot Gris variety grape. Another grape, bearing the alias name Gros Auxerrois was once found widely grown in the south of France and, currently known as Napa Gamay in California, is actually the variety Valdiguié.

White-wine producing cross derived from Müller-Thurgau, Riesling and Sylvaner. Found in many English, German and Western Canadian vineyards because of its adaptability to a wide range of climates. Tends to be low in acidity and so is mainly vinified to be a sweet wine with Muscat-like or occasional delicate Sylvaner flavors because of its ability to reach "Auslese" style or even higher sugar levels in good years. English wineries exclusively create dry wines from the variety. Commonly blended with lesser grapewines in the Rheinhessen region of Germany to create "QBA" type village wines. Its popularity is only exceeded by the Kerner or Ehrenfelser varieties. (NB: A currently rare early 19th century American hybrid, originated by J.H Ricketts of Newburg, N.Y around 1870, also bears the Bacchus name but is not related in any way to the above variety. It is recorded as being a hardy, disease resistant, high acid, sterile pollinate V.riparia/labrusca variety derived from a Clinton O.P seedling x Unknown cross once occasionally grown in New York State and used to create a dark red wine. Its limitations included an inability to withstand drought or lime-rich soils plus poor suitability as a tablegrape. Budburst/flowering was early, ripening late with a long hangtime, producing small to medium fruit clusters that were judged superior in quality to the the Clinton parent variety).

Semi-classic grape commonly grown in the Piedmont region and most of northern Italy. Now thought by some to be identical with the Perricone, or Pignatello, grape of Sardinia. Was probably imported into the U.S.A. late in the 19th century. Usually produces an intense red wine with deep color, low tannins and high acid and is used in California to provide "backbone" for so-called "jug" wines. Century-old vines still exist in many regional vineyards and allow production of long-aging, robust red wines with intense fruit and enhanced tannic content. Plantings in North America are mostly confined to the warm western coastal regions.

Minor white-wine producing variety, grown in southern Rhone region of France, sometimes used in local white wine blends to help create acidic balance. Has the synonym names Malvoisie in the Languedoc region of France and Blanquette in Australia. Ripens in October and susceptible to rot. Has synonym name (or possible clonal relationship to) Picardan (Blanc), a variety that has similar characteristics and is also condemned by some as capable only of mediocre white varietal wine production.

This cultivar was released by the Geisenheim Research Station, Germany, in 1962. Has the technical name GM 4984. It was derived from a Müller-Thurgau variety cross with the Chancellor (a.k.a Seibel 7053) hybrid cultivar and can currently be found in limited acreages on the south island of New Zealand where it is mainly used for producing somewhat neutral varietal and blend white wines. Resistant to Bunch Rot and Downy Mildew fungus diseases. Somewhat similar wines are made from the Geisenheim cultivars (noted below) currently grown in Nova Scotia, Canada.

Hybrid red wine V. Amurensis hybrid cross variety created in Russia to withstand cold climatic conditions. Small commercial/nursery acreages currently grown in Nova Scotia (Canada). Vigorous growth when rigorous cluster thinning techniques used on the secondary clusters of this prolific producer. Early budding occurs late May and the cultivar has the unusual characteristic of early closedown in anticipation of first frost causing fruit to fall off the vine within a few days. Susceptible to fungus diseases Aspergillus, Powdery Mildew and Penicilium. Hardy to -20 deg. F. (ca -29 C.) with tendency to high acids in cool years. Reported to be a female pollinate and so needs planting in alternate rows with other varieties. Creates red wine with excellent color and fragrant, heavy aroma recommended for blending with lighter wines. Reportedly similar in many ways to the Michurinetz grape cross - (see below) - currently grown on limited acreages in the Finger Lakes region of Western New York State (USA) and Nova Scotia, Canada.

Not related to the Riesling grape cépage in any way. Is actually the Crouchen varietal now sparsely grown in the Pyrenees region of France and is thought to have been translocated to South Africa in the mid-19th century where the grape has been subsequently also known as the South African Riesling, or Paarl Riesling, presumably due to an identification error. This same grape is similarly misidentified as the Clare Riesling in Australia. The misnamed Cape Riesling can legally be sold under a "Riesling" non-varietal white wine blend label and is known to have good bottle-aging potential. (The true, german Riesling grape is locally known as the Weisser Riesling, or White Riesling, in South Africa).

(a.k.a Carinena and Mazuelo in Spain, Gragnano in Italy, Carignane - or occasionally Kerrigan - in California). Normally ripens in late season around the end of September. Semi-classic grape commonly used for making red wines in Southern France and Spain. It is also successfully grown in California's Central Valley, often ending up in generic blends and "jug" wines, although some old plantings allow small lots of premium extract wine to be made. Blended with other varieties such as Cinsaut, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah, it has been used to create red wines in California similar to the famed Chateauneuf-du-Pape blend of the southern Rhone region of France. In Australia it has the occasional alias name Black Portugal.

Has synonym name Grande Vidure. Very limited plantings of this red wine grape are now found in the Médoc region of Bordeaux, France where it is used to produce deep red wines occasionally used for blending purposes in the same manner as Petit Verdot. The worlds largest vineyard area under cultivation of this variety is now found in the Santiago region of Chile, South America. Some claim that, in Chile, some individual plantings of this variety has been mistakenly labeled as Merlot due to certain ampelographic similarities. Recent genetic research has shown that the two varieties may in fact be distantly related. Others claim that, in France, the variety name is an alias for what is actually the Vidure, a local Bordeaux name for a Cabernet Sauvignon clone. Another theory holds that the true name should be Biturica, thought to be an ancient variety that originated from Iberia - (modern Spain/Portugal) - as claimed by Pliny, and currently a popular blending variety with Sangiovese in Tuscany, Italy, called "Predicato di Biturica".

Red-wine creating grape grown on small acreages in California. The name there is thought to be an early Italian immigrant corruption of Charbonneau, a french synonym for the Douce Noir grape variety, still found in the Savoie region of France, that has many synonym names (noted in the Geilweilerhof database above) including Corbeau Noir. Some strongly believe, despite distinct ampelographic differences, that these varieties share a clonal or mutant relationship to the Dolcetto variety widely grown in northern Italy. Others argue that the relationship is to the Barbera variety of Italy. The vine bears small berries that are used to make a very dark red wine that, when subjected to extended skin contact during fermentation, is flavorful and quite tannic.

(Pronounced "shash-lah"). Semi-classic variety grown in Switzerland, France, Germany, New Zealand and U.S.A. Widely grown in the cantons of the first country where it has several regional synonym names, the main one being Fendant in the Vaud and Valais districts. It is also known as Perlan in the Mandement district. Mostly vinified to be a full, dry and fruity white wine. Also suitable as a Table grape. In France it is mostly grown in the Loire region where it is converted into a blend with Sauvignon Blanc called "Pouilly-sur-Loire" and in the Savoie region where it is treated in the Swiss manner. German growers of the Baden region know it under the name Gutedel. In New Zealand it is mainly made into popular sweet white wines. Californian and Australian growers know this variety under the alias names of Chasselas Dore or Golden Chasselas. Recent research indicates that the Viognier grape may be a related mutant variety.

Semi-classic grape widely grown in southern France, Italy and also in the Lebanon. Has many aliases. In the southern Rhone region it has the alias name Picardan (Noir). In Apulia, Italy it has the synonym name of Ottavianello. Used as blend component in many red or rosé wines. Transplanted to South Africa, where it was erroneously thought to be a Rhone Hermitage grape, and now a widely grown variety making a popular red wine in that country, and often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon. It has also been used to create the hybrid grape variety known as Pinotage. Also grown in Australia under several alias names that include Black Prince, Blue Imperial, Oeillade and Ulliade.

Better known as French Colombard in North America. The grapes from old vines are crushed by some northern Californian producers and made into a fruity white wine of interesting character in both dry and sweet versions. Otherwise mainly grown in California to provide backbone, due to its natural acidic character, for white "jug" wine blends. Still grown in S.W France where it is used for white wine blends in certain Bordeaux and Gascony AOC's and is also used for distilling into brandy. Also widely grown in South Africa. A recent research article from U.C. Davis in California demonstrated that this variety resulted from an ancient cross of Chenin Blanc with Gouais Blanc.

(a.k.a Corvina Veronese). Used with several other grapes to create the light red regional blends known as "Bardolino" and "Valpolicella" that have a mild fruity flavor with hints of almond. The blends include Rondinella, Molinara (and Rossignola for the latter wine). The latter blending wine has been replaced by some producers with the rare, indigenous Dindarella variety, and the Oseleta in order to produce a more traditional version of "Valpolicella". Mainly grown in the Veneto region of northeast Italy.

Recent vine resulting from a Helfensteiner x Heroldrebe cross gaining wide popularity in Germany and England. Has synonym name Weinsberg S 341. Creates red wines from grapes that have every important red-wine variety suitable for central Europe in their genealogy, ie. one parent is the hybrid cross result of Trollinger and Früburgunder and the other parent hybrid was the result from crossing Portugieser and Lemberger. Mainly grown in the Rheinhessen and Pfalz regions, it is increasingly available as a bottled varietal with aging potential.

(a.k.a Duriff, Dureza). Minor grape grown in France, California and Australia. A recent DNA analysis report (Meredith C.P., et al., "Am. J. Enol. Vitic." 50(3): 236-42 1999) shows this variety is probably a cross between a seedling of Peloursin and the variety Syrah. The recent discovery that the Petite Sirah variety extensively planted in California is identical to, and so is a synonym name for, the subject cultivar was complicated by the use of accessions from vineyards with the most reliable planting records which made it appear that the latter variety may also have been one of several other distinct varieties, all having grower support for the claim of legitimacy. Old vine plantings of Durif are currently (1997) found, and used to produce popular wine, in the Rutherglen (N.E Victoria) region of Australia. (For more information see "Petite Sirah" below).

White-wine variety, resulting from the crossing of Riesling and a Sylvaner clone, developed in 1929 at the Geisenheim Research Station, Germany. Many consider it second only to the Kerner grape-cross as a frost-resistant Riesling type substitute for the better known Müller-Thurgau cultivar widely grown in Germany and elsewhere. Mild acid content discourages aging. Claimed to have excellent Riesling grape similarities in taste etc. Moderately large acreages can now be found in the Okanagan region of western Canada where, according to local lore, it was originally planted in the late 1970's in lieu of a shortage of select clone Riesling cuttings. Subsequently the vine proved so adaptable and successful that it now, (1990's), constitutes British Columbia's 5th largest white variety crop.

(a.k.a Fetiaska). Several varieties are grown. The Feteasca Alba, is reportedly a Romanian developed variety seemingly most favored in that countries provinces of Moldavia and Transylvania where it is mainly used to produce dry or semi dry white-wines, although the Cotnari region is famous for semi-sweet and sweet wine versions. The widely grown Feteasca Regala is reportedly a crossing of the "Alba" version with an unnamed variety and is used to produce fresh, crisp, flavorsome white wines. They are also widely planted in Bulgaria and Hungary. In the latter country the "Alba" variety is better known as the Leányka. The selected variant used to produce red wines is the Feteasca Neagra, reputedly indigenous to Romania and one of the chosen V.vinifera cultivars successfuly developed by Dr. Frank for use in the Finger Lakes region of New York. It is mainly grown in several areas of central and southern Moldavia and also in Muntenia province. Usually vinified to produce dry or semi-dry deep red wines with a flavor described as "blackcurrant", requiring some aging.

The Gamay Noir grape is a clone of Pinot Noir. The version thought to be responsible for the Beaujolais wines of France is the Gamay Noir à Jus Blanc, as distinct from other Gamay teinturiers - (i.e: Gamay vine mutations of ancient origin noted for their deep red coloring capacity in blends). In the Beaujolais region growers use a variety of clones that include numbers 222, 358, 509, 656 grafted to suitable rootstocks such as Vialla for granitic soils, the standard lime resistant versions such as 161-49C and the American 420A. Its maturation before Pinot Noir makes it suitable for cooler climates. High yields and disease control require intensive attention.

White wine producing hybrid cultivar technically known as GM318-57 created in 1957. Reported as derived from Riesling cl.239 F2 and Chancellor parents. Moderately winter hardy. Susceptible to fungus diseases such as Powdery Mildew. Usually ripens late September where successfully grown in Nova Scotia, Canada. A reportedly slightly hardier yet similar hybrid is the Jost Geisenheim listed below. A somewhat similar cultivar, currently grown on the south island of New Zealand, is a variety named Breidecker.

(a.k.a Gwäss or Gwaess). Obscure, heavy bearing, white-wine variety historically used to produce a light neutral wine for blending, or distillation for use in brandy-type fortified wines, in France. Presently found in Australia, France and Switzerland. Also (subject to confirmation) grown in Austria under the synonym name Heunisch Weiss plus in other countries of Central Europe under the synonym name Belina. Reportedly planted in Australia around 1874. At least one producer in Rutherglen, N.E Victoria (and also one each in Bordeaux, France and the Valais, Switzerland) currently (1997) makes wine from this grape. Has achieved instant fame (Meredith, Bowers et al, Science 9/99) as the originating parent, with Pinot Noir, of many of the varieties for which Burgundy, France, is famous. Also recently discovered, by the same researchers, to be one of the parents, the other parent being Chenin Blanc, of the Colombard variety. Austrian research has established that this variety, under its synonym name (above), is responsible in the distant past, together with the ancient Frankisch variety, for creating the crosses that are known in modern times as Riesling, Silvaner and Elbling.

Also confusingly known under the synonym names Alicante in the south of France and Guarnaccia in the Ischia DOC, Campania, Italy. It should not be confused with the shortened name for the late nineteenth century cross Alicante Bouschet. Grenache is currently widely grown in Spain, (where it is known under the name Garnacha), the south of France and also in California. Is now believed to be descended from the grape named Cannonau, an ancient variety widely grown in Sardinia. It is the main grape used in the red wine blend known as Chateauneuf-du-Pape and, along with the Mourvèdre, Cinsaut and some others, makes good wine blends under the appellation "Cotes du Rhone Villages". In the warmer regions of California the Grenache grape tends to produce pale red wines that are mainly useful for blends. Older vines give juice that produces a creditable varietal. Often "hot" due to high alcohol content and with a distinctive orange colored tint. Also used to make some of the better rosé wines of Provence in southern France.

Native grape grown in Hungary. Used to make "Egri Bikaver", that countries best-known dry red wine blend. Currently the wine is a round, medium-bodied effort that ages fairly well, although the main ingredient is now the grape known as Blaufränkisch, thought to be a Gamay clone. Traditionally the wine was stronger and darker due to high Kardarka content, more deserving of its name "bikaver", which translates as "bulls blood". The grape is also currently widely grown in Bulgaria where it is known as the Gamza variety.

Moderately hardy grape developed from a cross between the Riesling and Trollinger varieties by the Weinsberg/Württemburg State Wine Institute, Baden (De). The latter variety is better known as the Schiava Grossa where grown in the Alto Adige region of Italy. Used to produce a Riesling-like white wine said to often reach "Auslese" Pradikat quality. Regarded by many as having superior characteristics to the Bacchus or Optima grapes. Currently, 1997, recommended for good site locations in southern Michigan and other suitable cool-climate regions where it usually fully ripens in mid-season.

Variety indigenous to Greece and used to create red wine. Also grown on the island of Crete where it is used either as a single variety or in a blend with Mandelaria grape-wine. According to the Geilweilerhof database (see Foreword above) a seedless mutation of the subject variety, named Korinthiaki, is grown world-wide as a tablegrape under many synonym names including Black Corinth, Zante Currant and, renamed by some supermarkets in the USA, Champagne. Apparently needing Mediterranean heat it has been found to be a fairly difficult variety to mature in cool climate vineyards, prone to disease and needing special treatment with Gibberellic acid, trunk girdling (etc) in order to achieve consistent bunchsize results.

(see Blaufränkisch above). Also known as the Blauer Limberger or Lemberger. The latter name is used for the grape where found in Washington state in the U.S., which has sizable plantings of this variety at last report and it is currently recommended for the Finger Lakes region on New York State as a cold-hardy winegrape showing good yields and ripening in early to mid-October. Frequently used for blending with Pinot Noir. Wines made from this grape grown in N.W. America are described as being "Merlot-like with mild tannins and having a dark chocolate/raspberry flavor". Wines made from this grape reportedly have low levels of histamines. It is the normally higher amounts of this compound found in many other red wines that can cause allergy headaches in some people.

Semi-classic grape grown in the Bordeaux region of France and in other areas under the names Médoc Noir, Côt or Pressac, while in the Alsace it has the local name Auxerrois. Has an extensive current listing of more than 50 variety synonym names in the (above) Geilweilerhof database. Also grown in the cooler regions of California. The vine is widely planted in Argentina where it is being used to produce very popular varietal wines. (It is now thought that the variety known as Fer in that country is actually a Malbec clone). As a varietal it creates a rather intense, inky, red wine so it is also commonly used in blends, such as with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, to create the renowned red French Bordeaux "claret" blend. In California and other areas it is increasingly being used for the same blending purpose.

Semi-classic grape cépage of ancient, probably Greek, origin. Widely grown in Italy as distinctive area sub-varieties, such as Malvasia di Candia, Malvasia Istriana etc. Requires sheltered, Mediterranean climate conditions for perfect ripening. Used to produce dry and sweet white, and light red, wines with high alcohol content and residual sugar. Is one of two whitewine grapes allowable in Chianti Classico wine production. Also widely grown in Portugal, Spain and the island of Madeira where the important winename Malmsey is an English word corruption of Malvasia.

Earliest grape planted in 17th century in what is now the state of California, where it is currently (1997) used to make several styles of wine - "Criolla" a tablewine, "Angelica", a very long-aged (50+ years) french Ratafia-like fortified wine and some late-harvest wines aged for 20+ years that are made from sun-dried grapes. Thought to have arrived in the America's by Spanish conquistadores importation. Known to be identical with the Pais grape widely grown in Chile and thought to originate from the Monica grape of Spain and Sardinia.

East European extreme-winter hardy grape of astonishing vigor derived from numerous varieties of european vinifera, plus amurensis rootstock. The name is apparently an anglicized version of "Miczurinoweic". Currently planted on limited commercial/nursery acreage in the Finger Lakes region of W. New York (USA), Nova Scotia (Canada), British Columbia (Canada) and more widely in eastern Europe. Requires drastic cluster thinning of secondary late clusters and side shoots. Early shutdown prior to anticipated first frost can occur as much as a month before and results in fruit fall within days. Susceptible to fungus diseases Aspergillus, Powdery Mildew etc. Winter hardy to -20 deg. F. (ca -29 C.) this variety usually buds in late May. Capable of producing fine red Cabernet Sauvignon style wine in N. America when mature although currently, 1997/98, receiving mixed reviews because of tendency toward high acid and low sugar in less than good years. Regarded as quite similar to the Russian hybrid Cabernet Severnyi grapecross listed above.

Robust mediterranean hot climate grape variety widely grown in the southern Rhone region of France and mainly used to introduce color and body to the red wine blends. Normally ripens in mid-October, ie. a week or so after Carignan. Select limited plantings occur in California where the variety is often called the Mataro, a relationship recently confirmed (3/98) by DNA analysis at UC Davis, and are used to produce a wine that sometimes develops the "green tea-like" herbal character that Rhone region french growers refer to as "animalé". Common aliases, probably due to early mis-identification, in Australia are Mataro, Morrastel and Graciano. The cultivar known as Monastrell that is grown in Spain and previously thought to be identical is not related.

Early ripening cross once thought to have been developed from Sylvaner and Riesling but some authorities now contend, based on DNA analysis, that it is a Chasselas, not Sylvaner, cross with Riesling. The possibility is plausible given that Dr. Müller was born, worked and resided in Switzerland, home of the Chasselas grape. Produces a flowery, yet acidic white wine that bears a modest resemblance to the parent Riesling grapewine. Widely planted in Europe, New Zealand and some parts of the cooler Northern regions of N. America. Claimed by some to reach optimum condition in the Alpine regional wines of Italy. Known as Rivaner in parts of Europe. Known to be one of the parent varieties from which the Bacchus grape was derived. A mutated version having considerable popularity is known as the Findling in the Lake Geneva region of Switzerland and the Mosel/Saar/Ruwer region of Germany.

(a.k.a Melon de Bourgogne). Productive cool-climate grape widely grown on the Atlantic seaboard of the Loire region of France. The juice goes into the making of the dry, tart white wine that is famous as "Muscadet de Sevres et Maine" or is distilled. The wine is light and fresh with distinctive fruit in good vintage years and best consumed while young. Also found in California because recent research indicates some plantings of this cultivar may have been mis-named Pinot Blanc. Confusion with Chardonnay sometimes results because the latter grape has several synonyms that include the word "Melon".

(a.k.a Muskateller in Austria and Germany, Brown Muscat or Brown Frontignac in the Rutherglen, N.E Victoria region of Australia, Muscat Lunel in Hungary, Muscadel in South Africa, Muscat Frontignan in France and in Italy as the Moscato di Canelli) resulting from the wide use of variants with different colored skins. They are all members of the Muscat Blanc à Petite Grains cépage family. Used mainly for making semi-sweet and sweet dessert wines. May be the oldest known grape, having a documented history of growth around the Mediterranean for many centuries. Should not be confused with the Muscat of Alexandria, the grape with a similar ancient history of growth around the Mediterranean.

According to the Geilweilerhof (Genres) database, see above, this variety was derived from a Schiava Grossa x Muscat of Alexandria cross. Has over 30 synonym names, including Black Hamburg, Golden Hamburg, Hampton Court Vine, Queen's Arbor and Venn's Seedling. Widely grown white-wine producing variety also suitable as a table grape. Generally considered to produce aromatic mediocre wines mostly suitable for blending although some rosés are produced. Popular in Greece (see Moschato Hamburg), and also in Tianjin, China where it is blended with Sylvaner and Welschriesling to make a semi-dry wine known as "Dynasty".

(a.k.a Chasselas Musque in France, Muscat Gordo Blanco or Lexia in Australia and Hanepoot in South Africa). Ancient grape species with many synonym names suitable for similar Mediterranean growing climates as the Muscat Blanc above. Makes sweet wines that are usually judged of inferior quality compared to those of the Muscat Blanc cépage varieties. The main use in California is for producing table grapes and raisins. Also widely grown in Spain, where it is called Moscatel de Alejandria, and Portugal where winemakers in the latter country use it to make "Moscatel de Setubal" sweet wine.

Mid-19th century cross thought to be between the Chasselas and a Muscat varietal grape. Fairly widely grown in the cooler regions of central and eastern Europe where it is best utilized as a late harvest white wine. Promising results from trials of the clone NY 62.122.1 are reported in the Finger Lakes region of Western N.Y. where it reportedly has similar cold hardiness characteristics to those of the Gewürtraminer. Moderately resistant to bunchrot it usually ripens in early-mid September.

Minor grape of unknown origin thought by some to be a cross between Sylvaner and Pinot Blanc. Suitable for growing in a wide range of soils including heavy or chalky areas but prefers granite content. Shows a tendency towards Coulure, ie. poor fruit set with immature berries falling off after veraison (blossoming). Widely grown in sections of the Burgenland and Wachau regions, and other areas, of Austria producing soft, full-bodied wines with nutlike aroma. Also commonly used in white wine blends such as are found in Gumpoldkirchen.

Variety grown in the Chacoli de Guetaria (ie. Basque "Getariako Txakolina") D.O located in the Basque northeast section of Spain, between the town of San Sebastián and the french border. According to the Geilweilerhof database (see Foreword above) it has several synonym names, including Negra. The latter name is also a synonym for the Mencia variety and so raises a complex question of possible relatedness as the mutated version of Cabernet Franc, also known as Bouchy, imported from France along the "Pilgrims Way" as some insist. Label names also include spelling variations such as Hundarribi Beltza and Hondarrobi Beltza. (No other details as yet other than this variety is used in the production of aromatic, intense red, rosé and blended white wines).

Variety used for white wine production in the Basque region, referred to immediately above under Ondarrabi Beltza, of northeast Spain between San Sebastián and the french border. According to the Geilweilerhof database (see Foreword above) has several synonym names, including Zuria. Also label names may be variously spelt as Hundarribi Zuri or Hondarrobi Zuri etc. (No other details as yet other than the wine is commonly made into an intense, aromatic varietal or a version known as "Txomin Etxánex", a frizzante-style white wine more generally referred to as "Txakoli").

Historically has been something of a "mystery" vine. When first imported into California this variety somehow acquired the subject name possibly as a result of a labeling error confusing it with Petite Syrah. Is now a widely grown grape variety in California that a recent DNA analysis report, (Meredith, C.P, et al., Am. J. Enol. Vitic. 50(3):236-42 1999), has shown to have a very high probability of being derived from the cross of a Peloursin seedling with the variety Syrah, both grown in the Rhone region of France. It has subsequently been identified as (and is therefore a synonym name for) the variety named Durif (in honor of the developer) chosen and recorded in France around the early 1880's. Traditional Californian wine blends under the name of Petite Sirah are known to have contained a proportion of Barbera or Zinfandel grapewine. Suffice to say that, whatever the provenance of the grapevine(s) currently known as Petite Sirah, they produce dark red, tannic wines in the warmer regions of California, used mainly as backbone for Central Valley "jug" wines. In the cooler northern regions, where many very old vines still exist, it is often made into a robust, balanced red wine of considerable popularity.

Mutation of the Pinot Gris vine. Grape is generally used to make dry, crisp, rather intense white wines in the Alsace, parts of Burgundy and in Austria. In the latter country it is known as the Weissburgunder. In California, a similarly named grape is used to make a fruity, rather subtle wine similar to the simpler versions of Chardonnay. Used in many of the better champagne style sparkling wines of California because of its acid content and clean flavor. However, recent research speculates that some plantings of this California grown grape variety are actually the Melon de Bourgogne, (a.k.a Muscadet de Bourgogne), a grape grown widely in the western reaches of the Loire region of France, and famous for producing the "Muscadet" tart white wines that match so well with shellfish meals.

Mutant clone of Pinot Noir grown in western coastal regions of the U.S.A. and ripening earlier than Chardonnay in mid-late September. Currently, 1997, also recommended for Michigan and New York Finger Lakes growers. Several clones available that seem to vary in resistance to bunch rots. Ohio researchers are currently (1999) testing clone #143 using rootstocks 3309 and 101-14. Also called Fromentau, Malvoisie or Pinot Beurot in the Loire, and the former name in the Languedoc, regions of France. In Germany and Austria it is known as the Ruländer or Grauer Burgunder where it is used to make pleasant, young, white wines in the southern regions. Similar aliases are used in the german settled regions of Australia. In northeastern Italy it is known as Pinot Grigio. Versions named Auxerrois Gris and Tokay d'Alsace are also grown in the Alsace where the latter variety is used to make a golden-yellow wine with aromatic, fruity flavors that improves with a couple of years in the bottle - (but not to be confused with the Hungarian Furmint grape used to make the famous "Tokaji" sweet wines).

(Pronounced "pee-noh muh-ny-ay"). (a.k.a Meunier). Clone of Pinot Noir cépage. Is late-budding and matures earlier than Pinot Noir with larger clusters. Widely grown in the Champagne (Aube) region of France. Used in a blend with Chardonnay to make "Blanc de Noir" style sparkling wines. In the Finger Lakes region of New York state it has the alias name Black Riesling. Where grown in Germany it has the alias name Müllerebe. A mutation of this grape known as the Samtrot, notable for characteristics closer to Pinot Noir clones, is also cultivated in certain N. American vineyards and Germany. Also grown in Australia where it shares the name Meunier with other aliases such as Millers Burgundy and Schwarzriesling.

Minor variety mainly confined to Apulia in southern Italy where it is used to produce a heavy, robust portlike red wine made from raisined grapes. A recent Italian report tentatively links this grape to some mutated members of the Vranac variety grown in Montenegro, part of what remains of former Yugoslavia. There is also another clonal contender. The widely grown Plavac Mali cépage, also known as Mali Plavac, variety found in Dalmatia - (a province of Croatia, also part of the former Yugoslavia) - contains several mutated varieties. According to a recent report, (7/98), one or more of these appear to share some DNA characteristics with Primitivo indicating a possible parental *or* offspring relationship. In California, where it is now believed to have been translocated via purchase from a historically interesting plant and seed merchant on Long Island in New York State during the mid-19th century, - (see "A History of Wine in America" by Thomas Pinney, 1989) - it is famous as one of that states most popular winegrape varieties - Zinfandel.

Variety used for white wine production throughout Portugal. Has the synonym name Rabigato that, itself under the alias name of Boal/Bual, is one of at least three other varieties used in the production of the fortified wines for which the island of Madeira is famous. On the mainland these varieties are used in several wine blends, including some in the Bucelas DOC, Extremadura region of Portugal where the Arinto grapewine is the main ingredient of a blend that also includes Esgana Cão grapewine.

Ancient native grape grown in Friuli-Venezia-Giuia region of Italy. Has many synonym names in Italy and surrounding countries, including Canina (Nera) and Terrano. Made into what is often considered to be a robust, very intense red wine with moderate complexity that can match the heartiest meal course. According to Pliny the Elder the favorite wine of Livia, second wife of Augustus Caesar, was created from this grape. Limited plantings are also to be found in the cooler coastal regions of Australia and California. Some think the Savoie region Mondeuse variety of France is identical.

Red-wine grape cross originating from Carignan and Cabernet Sauvignon parentage. Bred for use in the hot San Joaquin Valley region of California by Dr. H.P. Olmo, a UC Davis researcher, this variety may lack the characteristic flavor of its parent yet have its aroma. Variable production depending on location. Color is stable and the grape shows above-average acidity. Susceptible to leafroll and fanleaf virus attack it shows better promise in cooler coastal regions. Also found on small acreages in South Africa, Chile, Argentina and Australia. Currently used in jug-wines as "backbone" ingredient.

(Pronounced "sahn-joe-veh-zeh"). Semi-classic grape grown in the Tuscany region of Italy. Used to produce the Chianti and other Tuscan red wines. Has many clonal versions, two of which seem to predominate. The Sangiovese Grosso clone Brunello variety is used for the dark red, traditionally powerful and slow-maturing "Brunello di Montalcino" wine. The other is the Sangiovese Piccolo, also known under the historical synonym name Sangioveto, used for standard Chianti Classico DOC wines. Old vine derived wine is often used in the better versions, needing several years aging to reach peak. A third clone, Morellino, is used in a popular wine blend with the same name found in the southern part of the province. Recent efforts in California with clones of this variety are very promising, producing medium-bodied reds with rich cherry or plumlike flavors and aromas.

Red wine, acidic, teinturier-type grape variety capable of high sugar content widely grown in the winemaking regions of eastern Europe. In cool climates is mostly used as a blending wine. Small acreages are found in the Finger Lakes region of New York state in the U.S.A where at least one winery creates a blend with Sereksia (Noire) wine and called "Black Russian". Also at least one winery in N.E Victoria, Australia, produces wine from this variety. Several of the most promising crossings with classic grape or cold-climate resistant rootstock varieties, eg. Saperavi Severnyi, have been made available by eastern European research institutes since 1947.

Thought to be a mutated member of the Sauvignon cépage family, the vine is low-yielding and the grape acidic yet capable of high sugar content. Currently undergoing something of a revival in the region east of Graves near Bordeaux, France. The white wine has a herbaceous taste similar to that of its grape cousin, the Sauvignon Blanc, and is noted by some as reminding them of "crushed blackberry leaves". The wine is mostly used for blending purposes with its cousin's wine in order to give a unique varietal aroma and taste.

Has synonym name Alzey S. 88. In Austria it is known as Samling 88. Grape variety developed in 1916 at the Alzey Research Institute, Germany, from a cross between Silvaner and Riesling. Has good resistance to frost (to -5 deg. F. approx. -20 C.) and usually ripens in mid-late season (mid-September to October). Extensively planted in the Rheinhessen, Rheinfalz and Franconia regions of Germany. Currently, 1997, recommended for planting in S.W. Michigan and the N.W. USA. Tolerant to lime soils and has good resistance to Chlorosis. If fruit is unable to mature, the wine quality will be of poor quality with an aroma described as similar to "cat urine". Normally produces full-bodied, aromatic white wines with good acid content that can reach "Auslese" Prädikat standard in the better vintage years and has long life in the bottle; ie. a 55 year-old experimental version from 1945 was recently (2000 AD) discovered and recorked.

Has several synonym names including Sereksia Tcheurnaia and Babeaska Neagra. The traditional Sereksia (Noire) red-wine grape is apparently only widely grown in Moldova, an area once part of Moldavia (a province of Romania) bordering the Black Sea. Also can be found on limited acreages in the Finger Lakes region of New York State where this V.vinifera variety was originally successfully cultivated by Dr. Frank. Is used there to create an aromatic, fruity red wine blend (called "Black Russian") with Saperavi (Charni) grapewine and having excellent aging potential.

(Pronounced "see-geh-RAY-buh"). Has synonym name Alzey 7957. Very early ripening (late August) grape derived from cross developed (at the Alzey Institute, Germany) between Gewürztraminer and the Madeleine Angevine table grape. Cold-hardy to around -15 deg. F (approx -22 C). Limited amounts are grown in Germany and used as small percentage additions (ie. 2-4%) in some Riesling blends due to its very heavy perfume aroma and spicy taste. Ill-suited to very hot regions in that much of the desirable perfume is lost. Susceptible to Mildew/Rot diseases and stem necrosis in wet/humid regions. Chlorosis can be a problem if planted on unsuitable rootstocks in lime-rich soils. Has variable productivity of around 2-5 tonnes per acre, with a tendency to overcrop, on fertile soils which should not be too rich because that is thought to cause variable flower set with consequent reduced yields. Low acids have been reported at harvest in Washington State (USA) where it has had best success as a late-harvest wine product. Does well in the cool, short growing-season areas of the Pacific Northwest of N. America and Finger Lakes region of New York State. The early ripening fruit tend to attract the attention of birds, bees and wasps.

(a.k.a Saperavi Severnyi in Nova Scotia, Canada). Hardy, low-cropping, early variety originating from Russia via Poland. Imported to Canada as experimental cultivar by Dr. C. Bishop in the mid-20th cent. Buds around late May and ripens mid-late August in the Okanagan region of British Columbia, Canada. Very attractive to birds. Also grown in Nova Scotia, Canada, where acids often remain high. High trellising recommended for this vigorous, drooping growth, vine. Juice has good color and the wine is thought suitable for blending with other red wines such as Michurinetz.

(a.k.a Sylvaner). The Geilweilerhof database (above) lists over 60 synonym names for this variety, including Osterreicher and Sonoma Riesling. Widely grown in the Alsace region of France, Germany and Central Europe. Suited to temperate zones, the vine is high-yielding and the grape produces an "easy" white wine with lightly spicy, floral flavors and mild intensity. Once very popular in California, it seems to have fallen victim to changing fashion in recent years and been replaced by (Johannisberg) Riesling in current taste. Belief that it had been crossed with the latter grape to yield the Müller-Thurgau variety is now in doubt. It is still believed to be involved as one parent in the creation of another crossed version called Scheurebe as well as several other crossings of a similar nature - (e.g: Bacchus, Optima).

European Baltic States cold climate variety currently undergoing trial by Geneva Research Station, NY. Has synonym name Moskovskiy Ustoichiviy. Derived from a complex (Perle von Csaba x Amurskiy) x Alpha cross. Successfully grown in Latvia, Belarus and regions near Moscow, Russia, without winter protection. Small amber colored berries are early ripening, with complex muscat/pineapple flavor. Good sugar levels and acidity reported from european sources. Vines have fair mildew and other disease resistance. (No other details as yet).

White-wine producer variety widely grown in the El Bierzo region of N.W Spain. Known as Tamarez or Crato Branco where grown in Portugal. Mostly used to make the young Vinho Verde wines of the regions. Also found as local, acidic, varietal wines capable of some aging. Has many synonym names in both countries and is the subject of considerable confusion as a result. The Doña Blanco variety found in the same region of Spain is thought by some to be a clone or, by others, to have a synonym name.

Fine winegrape used in best quality red wines of Spain. Also known under the alias name of Cencibel in La Mancha. Has several other mutated versions such as the Tinto Fino of the Zamora region, Tinta del Pais of the Ribero del Duero and Tinta de Toro in the Toro region. In Portugal the grape is known as the (Tinta) Roriz and Aragonez. Large acreages are grown in Argentina. Also found in the Central Valley of California where it is known as Valdepeñas and mainly used to make grapejuice much favored by home-winemakers sold under the "Valdepenas" name in N. America.

(aka Teroldego Rotaliano). Red-wine grape grown in the Trentino region of Italy. Used to normally produce an agreeable, deep red, blackberry flavored varietal wine. In the right conditions it is capable of creating a great wine with a depth of color all winemakers would like to achieve and a perfumed aroma of extraordinary finesse which suggests both wild berries and a delicate incense. It then explodes in the mouth showing its velvety structure with nuanced oak if done well, followed by an unforgettable length. While usually drunk young, the wine can age well for up to ten years.

Has the synonym name Tressot where grown in the Chablis (Burgundy) region of France. Red-wine grape also sparsely grown in several regions of southern France. Recently investigated as one of the varieties found in vineyards and collectively known as Petite Sirah in California. Something of a mystery grape, it may also be the variety known as Bastardo in both Australia and Portugal. Also thought by some to be the rare variety known as Cabernet Pfeffer in California. Also, by some, known as Cabernet Gros in Australia. A mutation known as Trousseau Gris is also found in France.

Has synonym name Agria. Hungarian red wine variety with deeply colored flesh, released in 1985, with complex parentage of Bikavar 8 (resulting from a Teinturier x Kadarka cross) and Gardonyi G, the offspring of a Malbec x Perle de Csaba cross. Widely grown in Hungary and other Eastern European countries where it is most commonly used as a color-enhancing blend wine with Blauburgunder or to increase color intensity in wine blends such as "Egri Bikavar". Also grown on small acreages in British Columbia, Canada, where it has achieved some success as a varietal wine with flavors claimed to have a resemblance to wines made with certain Pinot Noir clones. Having high vigor growth, training to a double separated vertical spur-pruned cordon is recommended in cool climate regions. Normally ripens in early September with good sugar content.

(Pronounced "VEE-oh-nee-aye"). Semi-classic grape variety grown in the northern Rhone region of France. Has full, spicy flavors somewhat reminiscent of the Muscat grape and violets. Recent research indicates a clonal relationship to the Chasselas grape variety. New plantings in California have created much anticipation among that States wine community. Viognier wine can vary from almost Riesling-like character to almost Chardonnay character, depending on production method, but is not noted for aging ability and is best drunk while young. Variety clones are currently undergoing trial by the Cornell Horticultural Research Unit (NY) for cool climate region suitability. Recently planted small commercial acreages in the eastern Finger Lakes region of New York state are now (1997) yielding enough grapes to allow one winery to make limited amounts of varietal wine.

(See also Italian Riesling above). Austrian name for the grape of ancient, but unknown, origins. May have Eurasian antecedents. Has no relationship to the german Riesling grape, which is called the Riesling Renano in Italy. Used for producing acidic dry and sweet white wines in Austria that have the label name "Riesling" which usually refers to this varietal, not the true german Johannisberg Riesling that is known by the name Rheinriesling. Widely grown in many countries of Eastern Europe such as Hungary where it has the synonym name of Olasz Riesling.

Recent crossing of St. Laurent and Blaufränkisch grapes finding favor in Austria and Canada. Has capability for creating good red wines with some aging ability. Reportedly is among the most cold-hardy vinifera varieties. Synonym names include Zweigeltrebe and Rotburger, the latter having no relationship with the Rotberger variety with nearly similar spelling.

1) Return to "Classic Vinifera Varieties and Synonyms"

FRENCH-AMERICAN/AMERICAN HYBRID/NATIVE VARIETIES

Clickable INDEX for French-American/American Hybrid/Native Varieties

Introductory Information on Hybrids.

The term "hybrids" indicates that, unlike many of the naturally evolved vines, and crosses, covered above, two or more vine growths of different species have been crossed genetically by human intervention to produce a quite unique species that combines the best possible characteristics of the parent vines and eliminates their weaknesses to the greatest feasible extent. The term "French-American" indicates that the two parent growths came from, on the one side, a european "Vitis Vinifera" and, most often, a "Vitis Labruscana" that evolved via random fertilization from a North American "Vitis Labrusca" vine growth native to the East coast. There are several other types of native vine common to N. America (eg. many discoveries, "V. Borquiniana" etc.) that do not share the species specific "foxy" taste characteristic of the labrusca. Instead they are each capable of producing individual flavors, several of which are essentially neutral, and in some cases can bear a close resemblance to european wines. Nearly all played some part in the creation of the interspecific cultivars now used worldwide in various roles.

Many of the "hybrids" listed were created as a response to the seasonal temperature extremes commonly encountered in the northernmost temperate zones of Europe and N. America; and as counter to various disease's that can affect most of the vine transplant growths after importation to N. America from Europe. Each of the hundreds of hybrid crossings created yearly is allocated a number, e.g. "Seibel 5279", until they become commercially acceptable after extensive field trials, as the mentioned example did, eventually being named "Aurore". Only named varieties appear below, most of them capable of proven consumer acceptance when converted to varietal wine or wine blends although, in the face of the success of traditional vinifera wines with consumers, their market future has become, (1997), uncertain. Note that they currently cannot be labeled lawfully in many countries as "Quality Wines", a phrase reserved for use with Vinifera-derived wines only, and so are designated solely as "Table Wines" in those countries.

Growers in cool/cold climates should be aware that most vines vary in their sensitivity to low temperatures. Grafted vinifera planted in locations where minimum temperatures occasionally fall below 0 deg. Fahrenheit (-17 Centigrade) can be expected to suffer some cold injury. Protecting the graft union by "hilling-up" with earth, snow or mulch during the winter months assures the likelihood of trunk renewal and vine survival. In locations where minimum temperatures frequently fall below -10 deg. F. (ca -23 C.), trunk and cane protection is absolutely vital.

VARIETY NAME

Vigorous, productive V. Aestivalis hybrid female pollinate variety created by T.V. Munson reported to be a Norton x Herbemont cross variety. Has a very late season (reported as early October in Missouri) maturity, even later than Villard Blanc, and requires a hot climate to fully ripen. Recommended by some as suitable for planting in Kansas and other south-central States. Does not flourish in lime-contaminated soils. Growers report mixing rows of this variety with any self-pollinating variety gives good pollination results. White wine claimed to have somewhat spicy aromatic and taste flavor resemblance to Gewürztraminer.

Old-line V.labrusca x V.vinifera variety of unknown origin propagated before 1830 (when it was listed in the book "Treatise on the Vine" by R.W. Prince the Long Island, NY nursery owner). Has at least 20 synonym names according to the Geilweilerhof database - above in the Foreword. Recommended as a winegrape for warmer climates than New York state, it reportedly has a leaf profile reminiscent of the Syrah variety but also displays strong V.labrusca flavors when made into wine. Reported (Aug/2000) as one of the historically authentic vines currently planted in the Thomas Jefferson Monticello vineyard, Monticello, VA.

(a.k.a Siebel 5279). Hardy, early sweet French-american hybrid grape widely grown in New York State (U.S.A), but no longer recommended. Fruit ripens very early in late August to early September but is highly susceptible to bunch rots. Used to produce fruity, short-lived white wines of mild intensity considered to be poor quality and usually vinified for bulk production and blending. Also used for sparkling wines and as a table grape resistant to most Mildew diseases. Mainly found in the colder northern temperate regions of North America and is attractive to birds.

(Pronounced "bak-ko noo-w-arh"). Has synonym name Baco No.1. A sometimes overly vigorous French-American hybrid grape released in 1902 suited to heavy soils and used to make a high acid, deeply pigmented red wine regarded by some as a good, if rustic, substitute for Cabernet Sauvignon, particularly if given a suitable finish (eg. oak). Dating from around 1955 many Canadian growers have obtained superior flavor results by planting the "George" clone of this variety. Capable of aging, and sometimes requiring it, its origins trace to the Folle Blanche and a native American V. Riperia strain of grape. Buds early with consequent danger of frost damage. Ripens in late September with susceptibility to bunch rot problems and is attractive to birds. Extensively grown in the cool northern regions of N. America.

New cold climate and disease resistant cross-variety (Hungary patent pending?) available in W. New York, USA and Ontario, Canada; also in Hungary and Austria. Has synonym names Bianka and Egri Csillagok. Clusters are loose, medium in size and mature in early mid-season. Reportedly cold-hardy and tolerant to downy/powdery mildews. Grafting to a phylloxera resistant rootstock is recommended. Is a V.vinifera Bouvier x Eger 2 cross variety developed in Hungary and suitable for white wine production. Claimed to have Chardonnay-Sauvignon Blanc wine character.

(a.k.a Blue French, Burgundy, Jacquez and Lenoir). The cultivar is an oldline 19th century bunchgrape, derived from a cross between an unknown Vinifera and native American Bourquiniana species, recommended for use in the lower Gulf States of the U.S.A. However reports indicate a low sugar and acid balance in mature fruit and it is no longer high on the recommendation list for those areas. Thought by some to have a clonal relationship to Herbemont. Has good resistance to Pierce's Disease, producing large clusters of small red fleshed berries. Does not propagate well from hardwood cuttings and grafting to a suitable rootstock, such as Dog Ridge or Tampa, is recommended if to be cultivated in deep sandy soils. Although used to produce a white blending wine it is not recommended for use as a varietal red wine because of limited color stability and a taste some find unacceptable.

White-wine producer cultivar with Muscat-like flavor released (1987) for use in Florida where it has had medal winning success for vaguely Riesling-like varietal still wine and sparkling wine blends. Developed by John Mortenson of the Leesburg Research Station, University of Florida, it is the result of a cross between FLA D6-148, a Florida-developed hybrid (thought by some to be a V. aestivalis complex derivative) and the Cardinal table grape. Self-fertile, vigorous and productive, ripens early July in Florida. It is resistant to Pierce's Disease but seems especially vulnerable to Anthracnose and Black Rot.

Vigorous, productive, early ripening (around 2 weeks before Concord) variety derived from Herbert and Watkins varieties by NY's Geneva Research Station in 1938. Resembles its "Herbert" parent. Once found extensively planted in the Okanagan region of British Columbia, Canada and elsewhere. Moderately winter hardy, with good growth vigor, it ripens in late September and can produce very sweet, blue slipskin fruit. Produces best when trained to 4-cane Kniffen system. At last report this Concord-type grape has been almost entirely uprooted and replaced by other varieties except where used for tablegrape and juice production.

One of the early 19th century American labrusca hybrids; created in Ohio from two complex Concord seedling derivatives named Moore Early and the offspring of a (Belvidere x Muscat Hamburg) cross. Known also by the alias name Island Belle in Washington states Puget Sound region. Ripening around early October, is used as table grape and also to make wine in the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia, (Canada). At last report a few acreages remain in N. America, mainly for juice production.

Made as a varietal by several U.S. wineries, mainly in Arkansas, N. Carolina and Mississippi, this bronze colored complex V.rotundifolia (i.e Muscadine) hybrid cultivar is derived from a Howard x (Topsail x Tarheel) crossing. Has the synonym name North Carolina 57-56. Is a well-recommended, cold hardy, cultivar grown in the Southern States of the U.S.A and generally made into sweet white wines and juice. Not quite as resistant to Pierce's Disease as most other Muscadines. Has vigorous growth and ripening can be controlled with a 90% dry (girdling) scar. Most Muscadines ripen over an extended period of three weeks or more and because Muscadines are harvested without their stems, a dry scar is usually needed in order to retain the juice in all of the fruit until harvest crush or marketing. Suitable for machine harvesting. The best known related variety is the Scuppernong.

This historically important variety is reportedly a N. Carolina chance seedling, selected in 1802, that originated in the Piedmont region of that State and was named after the nearby Catawba river. A native American - (ie. a V.labrusca x V.vinifera hybrid) - red slipskin grape, it is commonly used to produce sweet white, red and rose' wines distinguished by a so-called "foxy" aroma component in cases where modern winemaking techniques fail to remove/mitigate the agent responsible. May fail to ripen properly unless grown in areas with a long growing season. Has some susceptibility to fungus diseases. Suitable also as a Table grape. Commonly grown in the Eastern U.S. and Canada on favorable sites. New York state wineries produce large amounts of sparkling wine from this grape. Its high acid profile can be modified by blending with other suitable labruscana derived red wines such as Rougeon. Also quite popular when made into an ultra-sweet "ice-wine".

A recommended hybrid cross, developed 1947 and released in 1972 by the Geneva (NY) Research Station, between the Schuyler and Seyval Blanc cultivars. Usually ripens around late September and is used to make a fruity white wine of mild intensity somewhat similar to Riesling. Widely grown in the Finger Lakes region of New York State and other hard-frost to -5 deg. F. (ca -20 C.) susceptible regions of North America. Also recommended for Arkansas. Noted for hardiness and bunch rot disease resistance, the grapes should be picked at low sugars to avoid over-ripe, sometimes labrusca-like, flavors. Young shoots reportedly fragile in strong winds.

Bunch rot resistant, mildly winter-hardy to -5 deg. F.(ca -20 C.) french-american hybrid with French Rhone origins. Requires a long growing season, often ripening in mid-October. Reportedly vulnerable to Crown-gall disease in Missouri. Used to make very good quality red wines reportedly with spicy aromas, fruity flavors and some herbaceousness if fruit clusters are appropriately thinned. Somewhat low in tannins so can benefit from extended skin contact during fermentation. Grown in the cooler regions of Eastern U.S., Canada and Europe. Decreasing acreages also found in Australia. Note that due to stringent European Union rules hybrid varieties can no longer be blended with traditional varieties in western Europe although it remains a popular variety and is still widely grown in the Bordeaux region of France.

Large, vigorous American hybrid grape with high heat and drought resistance. Commonly grown in Texas and other Gulf States it is one of the few hybrids developed by T.V. Munson that is resistant to Pierce's disease, the main limiting factor to grape growing in the Gulf South. It is a cross between V. Champinii and a Concord seedling. Since Champanel also has excellent resistance to nematodes, has tolerance of extremely alkaline soil and in spite of the fact that it has only limited resistance to Phylloxera, it has been used as a rootstock in Texas. Rootstocks are not usually expected to produce fruit of value, so most grape growers have rejected Champanel for making wine. The grape, however, produces a quite acceptable red wine judged generally superior to such red varieties as Miss(issippi) Blue and Midsouth. The vine's extreme vigor means it does well where other vines may not survive and does not need to be grafted.

Recommended frost-hardy French-American hybrid cross released in 1990 and descended from the Seyval Blanc and Chardonnay varieties. Planting has been limited in the face of success with Chardonnay in the eastern and mid-west regions of the U.S. Noted for superior cold-resistant properties since its release from W. New York's Geneva Research Station. Requires good locations (low tolerance of poorly drained soils) with long growing season. Ripens later than its vinifera parent, usually early to mid-October. Used to make quite popular white tablewine in Arkansas, Michigan and Missouri. Recently found to be susceptible to crown gall in wet spots and, in Virginia, to damage by grape root borers.

Historically important - (introduced to the Northeast USA around 1850) - very hardy native American V.labrusca cultivar producing the characteristic "foxy" flavored style of red wine associated with vitis labrusca vines. Ripens mid-late October. Like its popular offspring Niagara, (created by a Concord x Cassady crossing in 1868), it produces small vines and low crops unless grafted onto a good growth rootstock (eg. "3309") and planted in soils of optimum fertility. Mainly grown in the Eastern and Mid-Western U.S. and Canada to produce sweet finished wines, grape-juice and desirable fruit-flavored dessert grapes. Has susceptibility to skin cracking and postharvest shelling; also to Eutypa-dieback disease. A very similar grape called Fredonia is grown in the Erie region of New York state, ripening about two weeks earlier, and acts as an insurance crop against early frosts. Another version, named Sunbelt, has been developed to give more even fruit ripening in the hot conditions of the Southern and Gulf States of the U.S.A.

Is possibly the most successful of the hybrid red bunchgrapes developed for Florida and the lower Gulf States of the U.S.A. in order to have resistance to Pierce's Disease etc. Is a cross between two cultivars, each of which has one Concord parent. It is less vigorous than other red cultivars such as Champanel, Blue Lake or Midsouth. Regarded as far superior to Concord for use in the southern Gulf States despite uneven ripening characteristics that force multiple pickings. Vines are not suitable for machine harvesting. Requires grafting to rootstocks such as Dog Ridge or Tampa for good growth and yields in sandy or highly (7.0 pH) alkaline soils. Recommended as a seeded tablegrape that has the usual slightly "foxy" taste. When used for wine production it suffers color instability and is only recommended for "Blanc de Noir" style wine.

Local lore suggests this oldline red wine producing grapevine was a "chance find" wild growth in the State of Arkansas. Ampelographic characteristics are so similar that most experts considered it identical, or closely clonally related, to the Norton grapevine claimed to have originated from the State of Virginia - (see below). DNA analysis carried out in the Geneva Research Station, New York, has shown the two cultivars to be identical members of the V.aestivalis vine group. There is controversy about which cultivar has best resistance to Pierce's Disease. Successful and prized in Arkansas and Missouri where it reportedly ripens in late September and keeps well. It has proven somewhat less adaptable in more southerly States, low productivity small berry clusters having been reported along the Gulf Coast. At the height of the mid-19th century phylloxera crisis in France this variety was the vine of choice for vineyard restoration. However its poor calcium tolerance defeated all efforts at replanting, due to the high lime content of most French soils, and it has never regained that popularity. Grafting is not required. Requires soils with good drainage if disease is to be avoided. Wine color is stable, a characteristic that helped promote its 1873 acclamation in Europe as "best red wine of all nations".

Productive, hardy to -15 deg. F (ca -26 C.), mid-October ripening french-american hybrid grape that is not currently recommended because of susceptibility to soilborne viruses and poor, (1997), market demand conditions for some hybrid grapes. It gives a fruity, balanced red wine of only fair quality usually possessed of low to mild tannic content. Having low popularity as a varietal it is commonly used as a tannin diluting blending component in tannin-rich bulk wines. Planted mainly in the cooler regions of the Northeast U.S. and Canada where it once had the name Cameo, changed in 1972 because of certain proprietary and other objections.

Has synonym names Muscat de St. Vallier Blanc, Muscat Santa Valliere. Technical name is Seyve Villard 20-473. Derived from a Pense x Seyve Villard 12-129 cross. French/American hybrid grape suitable for wine or tablegrape use. Ripens mid-late October in most areas. According to the list where the information appeared this grape has the alias name of Waltham Cross where grown in "New World" regions. A little known selection (originating before 1900 from Vaucluse, France) named Dattier de Beyrouth is reportedly still grown under glass in Calgary, Alberta (Canada).

A native American hybrid grape variety used to make dry, sweet and sparkling white wines of good quality and barely perceptible "foxy" character. Commonly grown in the Eastern U.S. on deep, fertile, well-drained soils where it ripens in early to mid-October, it has considerable popularity when made into "ice-wine". Has some susceptibility to fruit and foliage fungus diseases and requires grafting to a phylloxera-resistant rootstock for best growth. For Arkansas the main recommendation is to cold-press grapes that were grown on grafted rootstocks and finish as a 1.5 - 2.0% residual sugar, or as a true dessert, wine. Also described as an excellent (seedbearing) Tablegrape. A selected seedling of this variety named Jewel with synonym names Burr 1 and Burr's Early, was very popular in the first years of the 20th century, ripening a little earlier than its better known sibling. NB: this seedling should not to be confused with the recent (1999) Juwel V.vinifera cultivar release with a similar synonym name.

Is an old-line nineteenth century American labruscana variety named after Diana Crehore, the originator, first exhibited in 1843. Once commonly grown in the Finger Lakes region of New York, it was one of the primary parents, along with Muscat Hamburg, whose offspring was then crossed with the Concord, itself a labrusca-vinifera hybrid, to create the historically interesting secondary hybrid Brighton, one of the later importantly successful american hybrids derived from a vinifera and labrusca variety.

American hybrid grape derived from a Concord seedling pollinated by mixed pollens of Delaware, and the long-forgotten Vinifera, Labruscana, Bourquiniana cross Walter variety. These grapes were developed by the prolific hybridizer A.J Caywood in 1868 at the Hudson River (NY) vineyard now occupied (1998) by the Benmarl Vineyard. Used to make fruity, quite sweet white wines with little perceptible "foxy" character. Mainly found in the N. American cool-climate regions of Ontario, Canada and Finger Lakes of N.Y. State where it typically ripens during early to mid-October.

Reportedly discovered in Missouri in 1870, this old-line complex american labrusca/riparia/vinifera parentage variety is now considered to produce very mediocre and strongly "fox" flavored sparkling white wine blends. Vulnerable to fruit cracking because of thin skin, the grape typically has high acidity. Ripening at same time as Concord, it is resistant to Mildew and its general hardiness recommends it for difficult growing areas. A new variety, named Ventura, that upgraded the older cultivar in its resistance to fruit cracking was released in the 1970's by the Ontario Horticultural Research Institute of Canada.

Vigorous, extremely winter-hardy to -30 deg. F (ca -35 C.), heavy producing and disease resistant V. Riperia 89 x Landot 4511 (Noir) french/american hybrid variety created by the U. Minnesota Research Institute for upper midwest USA conditions. Susceptible to Powdery Mildew disease, but near-immunity to Downy Mildew, in excessively humid conditions. Ripens in late mid-season with good sugar content. Important to let fruit hang until fully mature in order to reduce troublesome high acids to reasonable levels. Used to produce a high quality, full-bodied red wine with cherry/plum aromas and moderate-to-low tannins that usually needs malolactic fermentation to reduce its cool climate acidity. Reportedly contains little trace of the wild V. Riperia herbaceousness. Recommended for North-Central regions of USA.

Derived from the same parents as Himrod, this hybrid seedless variety is mainly recommended for use as a strongly flavored table or raisin grape. Usually buds late May and ripens in late August. Capable of producing a white wine, having some aging potential, suitable for blending. Currently grown in some quantity in the Pacific northern coastal regions of N. America and elsewhere. Vigorous with good quality grapes in warmer regions. In cooler areas it is hard frost sensitive. Also may show poor sets with unevenly sized berries. Berry splitting can also be a problem, so much so that some recommend the Reliance, Mars or Vanessa varieties as better tablegrape substitutes.

Moderately cold-resistant American labruscana grape grown on limited acreages in New York state for use as a tablegrape and in varietal and sparkling wine blends. A selected "bud sport" cultivar is currently grown in California under the name Pierce (has synonym name Royal Isabella). Still grown in cooler regions of Italy and Australia, where it is named Fragola. A selection with the name Albany Surprise is now grown in New Zealand. Also found in eastern Europe under a variety of alias names, (such as Seksarda in Croatia, former province of Yugoslavia and as Izabella in Hungary and Georgia CIS). This historically significant variety has over fifty synonym names (see Geilweilerhof database in the Foreword section above) as a result of its post-phylloxera popularity in the late 19th century. Thought to be derived from a native Vitis Labrusca grape of N. America and an unknown european vinifera probably created by random pollination as a result of the 18th century attempts to establish European vines in the U.S. Reputedly discovered in Dorchester, N. Carolina around 1816 it was promoted by William R. Prince, an influential nursery owner established in Flushing, N.Y, and named after a famous "southern belle", the wife of Col. George Gibbs. Currently being selectively removed and replaced by varieties that lack the "grapey/foxy" taste and flavor of this grape although it still has its admirers. Modern winemaking techniques have succeeded in eradicating the agent responsible, resulting in a popular, strawberry/boysenbery-like flavored wine where those techniques are practiced. It is still grown in quantity in Brazil and other fungus prone regions of South America. An example of random hybridization involving only N. American vine species that resulted in a successful wine is the Norton grape. (See below).

Early 19th century American labrusca grape discovery used to produce red wines strongly "foxy" in flavor. Highly vulnerable to Ozone gas pollution which causes diminished vigor and productivity. Should be planted in deep, well-drained soils or grafted on a vigorous rootstock such as "3309". One of the most deeply colored "tooth-stainers". Still widely grown in Brazil and other hot, humid, fungus prone regions of South America. Also found in Australia where it has the synonym name Kittredge.

Elmer Swenson patented American labruscana, released in early 1980's, suitable for table, juice or white wine use. Claimed to be hardy to -40 deg. F. (ca -42 C.). Very vigorous, heavy bearer. Disease resistant, with some susceptibility to Black Rot. Ripens early in season with small clusters making it a poor tablegrape choice. Some use it to make a labrusca-style white wine that has the reputation of easy oxidation, so it is not high on commercial growers recommendation list. Currently grown on limited acreages in South Dakota. (No other details available as yet).

Earlier (September) ripening french-american hybrid red wine grape than, although derived from same cross, Marechal Foch below. Also known as Millot. Extensively grown in the Alsace region of France where it is known as "le medicin du vin" (or "wine doctor") for its ability to increase the color intensity of a red wine (eg. Pinot Noir) without perceptibly altering the quality. Also extensively planted in the Northeast and Midwest USA. Some consider the wine to be superior to Foch because of more distinct berry aromas. Best harvested at pH 3.4 and 19+ Brix in warmer climates if Carotene-caused discoloration is to be avoided. Market demand thought to be hampered by lack of name recognition.

(pronounced "mar-esh-shall-fosh"). Has synonym name Kuhlmann 188-2. Short season french-american hybrid small-cluster grape with good hard-cold tolerance to -20 deg. F. (ca -29 C.) and diseases, ripening in early September. Grows well in sandy soils, but may need grafting for use in heavier soil types. Prof. Kuhlmann, the hybridizer, reported using an American riparia-rupestris hybrid variety as one of the parents but, confusingly, others argue that he instead misleadingly used the Gamay based french-american hybrid Oberlin 595 S.P, developed by his father-in-law, as the cross with Goldriesling in order to create the offspring cultivar. Noted for producing somewhat light, yet deeply colored and strongly varietal, wines described as having a "Burgundian" character. Usually needs the help of carbonic maceration or hot-pressing to enhance quality. Birds find the small berries very attractive. Also known under the name Foch. (See above).

This cultivar is reported as derived from a Galibert 261-12 x (Extra x Marguerite) seedling, the latter two varieties being complex V.lincecumii varieties reported as created by T. V. Munson. Used in the production of white-wine blends for sparkling wines in Florida, it was developed by N.H. Loomis at a USDA experiment station (long since closed) in Mississippi. Released by Mississippi State at the same time as Miss(issippi) Blue and Midsouth. All three are resistant to Pierce's disease.

Has synonym name of California L 11-3. Developed by H. Olmo in 1942, this cultivar was released in 1958 and is derived from an (Early) Campbell x Niagara cross. The vine is vigorous and productive and tolerant to Powdery Mildew. Ripens in mid-season, with large berries on the bunch. Occasionally used for making semi-sweet wines, this variety is more generally recommended as use as a tablegrape. Currently grown in many countries. A variation with the name Early Niabell has the synonym name California L 11-2.

Root disease and cold resistant, reportedly to -15 deg. F (approx -22 C), native American labruscana hybrid grape derived from Concord and Cassady American hybrids. Introduced in the Northeast USA in 1882. Like its parent Concord counterpart this variety requires quite high heat, soil of optimum fertility and grafting to a good growth rootstock (eg. "3309") for best results. Used to create fruity white wines with strong "grapey" flavor, usually sweet finished, but also found in dry versions. Suitable also as a Table grape. Possibly one of the few native American hybrids that will remain popular in the U.S. because of a wide consumer base created after World War II. Plantings are mainly found in the Eastern and Mid-West regions of the U.S. where it ripens about 1 week earlier than Concord. At its best when blended with a neutral wine.

This well-known native N. American V.aestivalis cultivar, with the alias name Virginia Seedling, is thought to be derived by chance pollination involving the American aestivalis native species. Is mainly found in the warmer regions of the southeast U.S.. DNA analysis carried out in the early 1990's has shown that this cultivar is identical to the Cynthiana variety listed above. Substantial acreages are grown in the State of Virginia, and Missouri where it has had over a century-long presence, that reportedly ripen in late September. The deeply pigmented, aromatic characteristics of the fully ripe fruit used to create this historically interesting full red wine are said to include coffee and spice-like flavor with little or no "foxy" aroma providing problems with both high pH and high titratable acidity are appropriately addressed. Vines are tolerant of common fungal infestations and easily protected with fungicides. Planting in well-draining soils is required if rot is to be avoided. Foliar Magnesium spray application is recommended in Arkansas. Crops are best enhanced with high training, preferably Geneva Double Curtain. Birds find the small fruit very attractive.

This "provenance unknown" grape is reported by some to be a cold-hardy native American labrusca hybrid. Alternatively, Canadian viticulturists believe it to be a V. Berlandieri x V. Riparia cross variety named Teleki 8B developed by the Teleki Research Institute, Hungary. Has synonym name of Inkameep Riesling. Usually ripening around mid-September, it is currently found on small acreages in British Columbia, Canada, the N.W. USA and, possibly, in New Zealand. Known to have no relationship to the german Riesling V. vinifera variety (see above). Berries reported to have a Muscat-like flavor, at around 18 deg. Brix sugar content, which can then degenerate into labrusca-style flavors if allowed to ripen much further. Can be used to produce a bland varietal white-wine best used for blending although some report varietal success with a short (up to 36 hour) skin contact during fermentation.

Variety widely grown in the cooler regions of the northeast American continent, including Canada, and middle band of states of the USA. This very cold-hardy, late budding, french-american hybrid small-cluster grape ripens in late September. Requires grafting to good vigor rootstock for fruit-bud development. Due to high acid content, is recommended for making white dry, late-harvest and ice-wines. Reported to have Pinot de Corton and Le Subereux french-american hybrids as direct parents. Currently very popular as a high quality dessert wine because of its restrained fruitiness, high acid and good balance.

Cool-climate white-wine and table grape. Created early in the search for suitable french-american hybrid grapes and is one of the parents of the Vidal Blanc cultivar. Produces fruit with high sugar content suitable for making crisp, well-balanced, semi-sweet or sparkling wine blends. This variety is still grown in the Loire region of France. It is successful in the state of Missouri where it is used to produce a good quality wine with a distinctively Loire-valley taste profile. Takes Botrytis (ie. Noble Rot) infection extremely well and the bunches hang until Thanksgiving in that State allowing production of an exceptionally successful sweet wine.

(Pronounced "ray-ghent"). Has synonym name of Geilweilerhof 67-198-3. Has complex parentage of Diana x Chambourcin cultivars. Bred for disease resistance, a recent (1998) vintage in the Pfaltz, Germany, required no spraying during the season and produced a good red wine. Growers in Michigan, USA, report winter hardiness is better than Riesling with frost resistance of at least -16 deg. F. (ca -27 C.) with no protection. Wine reported to have good color, moderate tannins and a fruit aroma/taste profile reminiscent of Rhone, France red wines.

Very hardy French/American hybrid, (a.k.a Seibel 1000), cultivar with medium-sized berries that ripen in mid-season. Historically interesting as the first french-american variety import to be introduced into Canada and one of the first, after Geneva (NY) research station propagation (post-1927), to be planted - (1930's by the Urbana Wine Company, later known as Gold Seal of Keuka Lake, and one other 5-acre private plot) - on trial acreages in the Finger Lakes region of New York. Currently recommended for use in New Mexico and elsewhere as basis for acceptable rosé and red wines.

(a.k.a Siebel 5898). Red wine grape currently grown in the Finger Lakes region of New York State and recommended for New Mexico as a hardy vine with somewhat erratic production potential in that it sometimes bears biennially. Usually ripens in early October. Susceptible to bunch rot in some locations and requires harvesting at lower soluble solids in most years. Its wine is recommended for blending with wines made from American labruscana grapes, such as Catawba, in order to give good red color/intensity. Useful component in certain Port blends.

(a.k.a Seyval). A french-american hybrid grape that can be used to make high quality white wines of various styles. Crisp, fruity dry versions have sometimes been likened to French "Chablis" in aroma and taste. Wine intensity tends to be perceived as "thin", consequently either malolactic or barrel fermentation followed by oak aging is recommended to enhance quality. Grown extensively in the colder northern temperate zones of N. America and Europe, grafting to disease-resistant rootstock (eg. "5BB") is recommended for most sites. Ripening usually occurs around mid-late September. Fruit has high vulnerability to Botrytis bunchrot. This variety also one of the parents of Chardonel, a hybrid-grape cross sharing Chardonnay as the other parent.

Late ripening (Oct) harsh-cold hardy red wine grape variety grown in mid-Ohio that is thought by some to be a Dr. Hansen release from the Missouri State Grape Research Station at Mountain Grove. If the assumption is correct it is a V. vinifera x complex T. V. Munson american hybrid. Another report has it as a Chambourcin x Pinot Noir chance seedling. Reported in the literature as a discovered well-adapted "provenance unknown" vine in Missouri during the mid-1970's. Has some ampelographic similarities to the DeChaunac variety. Used in Ohio to produce wine with mild tannins and elevated acid content best enhanced with french oak flavors. Finished wine is regarded by some as vaguely similar to a young Italian "Chianti" beverage.

Has synonym name ES 6-1-43. Very vigorous variety developed in 1980 and released around 1994 by Elmer Swenson at the Univ. of Minnesota from an Edelweiss x E.S. 442 cross that ripens around early October. Has thick-skin berries of moderate acidity. Claimed to be very frost (to -30 deg. F) and disease resistant, with a hardiness exceeding that of the St. Pepin variety (above), and reported as closely resembling the latter cultivar in wine quality. Recommended as a candidate for the production of Late Harvest and "Eiswein" (ie. white Icewine) in Minnesota.

Newly, (1996), released variety derived from a Traminer Rot x Joannes Seyve 23416 cross by Cornell Univ. viticulturists. Quite cold-hardy, bears large clusters and is suitable for cool climates, although own-rooted cuttings are reported to show rooting problems and shy fruit productivity in some areas. Suitable grafted roots are recommended by the developers. Vine has moderate vigor, requires no spraying against Powdery Mildew but may need a couple for protection against Downy Mildew if season is unusually wet. This late midseason - (generally early to mid-October) - ripening white-wine producer variety is claimed to be superior in its balance of sugar, acid and pH levels to that of the most famous of its parents, (see above), and also has less bitter phenols. Initially simple, the wine ages well; developing honey and apricot flavors in 2 to 5 bottle years. Small trial commercial and nursery acreages can be found in the Canandaigua and Seneca Lakes area of New York State's Finger Lakes region, and other regions, because of the current acceptance of this hybrid grape. State of Virginia trial crops proved to be very resistant to bunch rot after the unusually heavy rainfall of 1996.

Cold hardy to -25 deg. F. (ca -32 C.) American hybrid developed in 1974 by the Ontario Horticultural Research Institute of Canada. Is a cross between the Elvira V. Riparia variety and Chelois. Has improved resistance to fruit cracking. Recommended as suitable for making crisp labrusca-flavored wine, or juice production. Ripens late September, with berries that are high in sugar and acid content if left past maturity. The vine has some susceptibility to tomato ringspot virus and requires grafting if grown on virus-infected sites. Currently grown in Canada, S. Dakota and other mid-west U.S. states.

Vigorous seedless hybrid variety released by the University of Arkansas. Generally buds in late May and ripens around mid-to-late September. The cultivar gives large berries, in well-filled medium clusters, with a distinctive "grapey" flavor profile, with muscat and spice. Not always completely seedless. Has susceptibility to rot in wet/humid conditions because of packed berries in the bunch when ripe. This blue-black skinned grape was developed for use in the middle band or south-central states of the U.S.A. Recommended for tablegrape and grapejuice production.

Popular late-season (around mid-late September) maturing french-american hybrid white-wine creating variety producing large clusters with fruity, floral flavors and good balance. Requires sites with long growing season and is moderately cold-resistant to -5 deg. F. (ca -20 C.). Needs grafting (eg. "SO4" rootstock) for extra vigor when used in certain soil conditions. Descended from the Ugni Blanc of France, (aka Trebbiano of Italy) and Rayon d'Or, it usually needs cluster thinning to achieve superior results. Made in a variety of styles - (i.e: Dry to sweet including late-harvest dessert style and ice wines). Cool region grapes vinified in a Rhine/Mosel manner are said to have a Riesling-like character.

French-american hybrid grape derived from a Seibel 6468 x Seibel 6905 cross. Has technical synonym name Seyve-Villard 12-375. Vigorous, productive, fungus disease resistant. Used mostly for making a fruity, mildly intense white wine. Benefiting from oak-aging, it has a nuanced "smoky" flavor in the better vintage years that some find reminiscent of Chardonnay. Still widely planted in France despite E.U. rules attempting to phase-in strict variety limitations. It is also grown in the cooler regions of the Northern U.S. and Canada. Does not always fully mature its fruit in very cool regions such as the Finger Lakes region of N.Y. because of late ripening around late October-early November. Claimed by some to possess moderate resistance to Pierce's Disease. Best grown on shallow, mild lime-content soils because it has been reported that juice from vines grown on rich soils develops a protein haze during fermentation. Currently recommended for planting in Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. Also recommended as a tablegrape when fully ripened.

Early ripening variety developed at the Geneva Istitute of New York around the mid 1930's. Reported to be the result of a cross Mills x Ontario, similar to Watkins and Wayne.

General Notes on Grapevine Cultivation.

---------------------------------------
Grapes are fairly tolerant to a wide range of soils, well-drained sandy loams being the optimum soil-type. Soil pH requirements vary according to cultivar with American varieties on the low end favoring 5.6-6.0 and V. Vinifera requiring a range of 6.5-7.0. Potassium and Nitrogen deficiencies can be remedied with Nitrogen compound addition of 50-80 lbs/acre annually, while Potassium is best applied at the rate of 250 lbs/acre before planting is commenced with later supplementary annual amounts of about 100 lbs/acre. Controllable "drip" irrigation installation is recommended for best results under arid region conditions.

One to two-year old vines with suitable grafted rootstocks are recommended as relatively risk-free. Roots can reportedly be cut back to around 8-10 inches length if absolutely necessary although this action does seem to retard growth, during the first season, in some varieties planted in cool climate regions. Dig a hole about 10 inches deep and plant the vine, spreading roots apart on a small pile of soil so that the graft union will be 4 to 6 inches above ground level when the hole is back-filled. The scion is best restricted to 2 buds (when any danger of frost attack has passed). Point the 2-budded scion spur towards the support-stake or wire so the new shoots will grow as close to the support system as possible and will be easier to tie without bending and breaking. Backfill the planting hole and pack soil firmly as you go (not compressing the soil too much). Soil may have to be added later if it subsides too much after heavy rain. In drought-prone areas it is best to cover the entire new plant with soil, or other type of covering, for several weeks to prevent drying-out. Once growth has taken hold the soil is pulled away from the plant so that the graft-joint and buds/shoots are again correctly exposed above ground level.

Return to Top of Page Menu

Acknowledgments.
---------------
The above Winegrape Glossary is a composite of information obtained from several types of resource. Among them are WWW sites, mailing lists, Usenet groups, and helpful individual email-ings, particularly from Bill Hagerman on Gulf State cultivars, Andrew Bennett, Bill Edinger, Lon J. Rombough and Steve Snyder for their personal lists of French-American and other hybrids etc, Harald Trost for additions relating to Austrian and Romanian varieties, George Gale for corrections to descriptions of some French-American hybrid varieties, details about the rare "Bacchus" American Riparia variety from Les Grosz and individual items from Robin Garr's Web-board correspondents.

Confirmatory details about some lesser french grapes were adapted from "Guide to the Wines and Vineyards of France" by Alexis Lichine, 2nd Edn, 1982. Other sources include publications by the "New York Wine and Grape Foundation", Penn Yan, N.Y. (U.S.A), newspapers such as the "New York Times", "Buffalo News" etc; and winery/nursery grape descriptions from California, Oregon, Ohio and Finger Lakes (NY) listings. My thanks to all those sources is heartfelt and sincere because, without them, none of the above would have appeared in its present form.