Graciano
| Graciano | |
|---|---|
| Grape (Vitis) | |
| Color of berry skin | Red |
| Species | Vitis vinifera |
| Also called | Morrastel, Cagnulari, Xeres (more) |
| Origin | Spain |
| Hazards | Disease-prone |
Graciano is a Spanish red wine grape that is grown primarily in Rioja. The vine produces a low yield that are normally harvested in late October. The wine produces is characterized by its deep red color, strong aroma and ability to age well.[1] Graciano thrives in warm, arid climates.
[edit] Wine regions
- In Australia, Graciano is used either in blends with Tempranillo or as varietal wines.
- In France, the grape is grown in Languedoc-Roussillon as Morrastel or Courouillade
- In Spain, the grape produces low yields, but it's a key component of Gran Reservas in Rioja and Navarra, contributing structure and aging potential. In the Rioja DO, 395 ha (0.7%) are planted with this variety.[2] While primarily used as a blending partner, some Rioja bodegas produce varietal Graciano wines.
- In California, Graciano is known as Xeres.
[edit] Synonyms
Bastardo Nero, Bois Dur, Bordelais, Cagliunari, Cagnonale, Cagnovali Nero, Cagnulari, Cagnulari Bastardo, Cagnulari Sardo, Cagnulatu, Caldareddu, Caldarello, Cargo Muol, Courouillade, Courouillade, Couthurier, Drug, Graciana, Graciano Tinto, Grosse Negrette, Jerusano, Karis, Marastel, Matarou, Minostello, Minustello, Monastel, Monestaou, Morastel, Morestel, Morrastel, Mourastel, Perpignan, Perpignanou Bois Dur, Plant De Ledenon, Tinta Do Padre Antonio, Tinta Miuda, Tintilla, Uva Cagnelata, Xeres, Xerez, Zinzillosa,[3] Cendrón, Juan Ibáñez, Tanat Gris, Tintilla de Rota.
[edit] References
- ^ J. Robinson Vines, Grapes & Wines pg 214 Mitchell Beazley 1986 ISBN 1-85732-999-6
- ^ http://riojawine.com
- ^ Vitis International Variety Catalogue: Graciano, accessed on December 4, 2009
