Graciano

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Graciano
Species: Vitis vinifera
Also called: Monastrell, Morrastel, Moristel, Juan Ibáñez, (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 of delicately scented grape that are normally harvested in late October. The wine that this grape produces is characterized by its deep red color, strong aroma and ability to age well. [1] Recent DNA evidence from UCD[cite this quote] suggests that 'Monastrell', formerly thought to be a Spanish synonym for Mourvedre, is in fact Graciano.

Contents

[edit] History

The origin of Graciano is uncertain, other than it seems to have appeared in Rioja.

[edit] Distribution and Wines

[edit] Australia

Confusingly Graciano may be used as a synonym for Mourvedre/Mataro in Australia. However there are about a dozen or so wineries throughout Australia who are using Graciano, either in blends with Tempranillo, or as varietal wines.

[edit] France

Grown in Languedoc-Roussillon as Morastel or Courouillade, the low yields are not popular, but there's more Graciano in UK than in Spain.

[edit] Spain

Produces low yields, but it's a key component of Gran Reservas in Rioja and Navarra, contributing structure and ageing potential. In the Rioja DO, 395 ha (0.7%) are planted with this variety [2]. Bodegas Viña Ijalba produce a single varietal, and surpsingly go for a 'joven' style.

[edit] USA

In California Graciano is known as Xeres.

[edit] Vine and Viticulture

Thrives in warm, arid climates.

[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, Parraleta, Perpignan, Perpignanou Bois Dur, Plant De Ledenon, Tinta Do Padre Antonio, Tinta Miuda, Tintilla, Uva Cagnelata, Xeres, Xerez, Zinzillosa, [3] Cendrón, Juan Ibáñez, Monastrell, Moristel, Parraleta, Tanat Gris, Tintilla de Rota, Tinta Miúda and Tinta do Padre António.

[edit] References

  1. ^ J. Robinson Vines, Grapes & Wines pg 214 Mitchell Beazley 1986 ISBN 1857329996
  2. ^ http://riojawine.com>
  3. ^ Maul, E.; Eibach, R. (1999-06-00). Vitis International Variety Catalogue. Information and Coordination Centre for Biological Diversity (IBV) of the Federal Agency for Agriculture and Food (BLE), Deichmanns Aue 29, 53179 Bonn, Germany. Retrieved on 2007-04-15.
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