The red grape variety originates from Lebanon. Synonyms are Assouad Karech, Bogliceva Loza, Boglicka, Cserichi, Kserikhi, Kseriki, Ksirichi, Mijajusa, Mijajusca, Probatoula, Provatina, Provatoula, Seriki, Syridie, Syrike, Syriki, Xerichi, Xerichi Kokkino, Xerichi Mavro, Xerichi Noir, Xirichi and Xeromacherouda (but it should not be confused with this distinct variety). The parentage of the vine is unknown. It is used not only as a wine grape, but also as table grape. The variety is cultivated in the south and west of the mainland, as well as in the Peloponnese, the Ionian Islands(Corfu), Crete and the Cyclades. In Crete, the variety was used to produce Malvasia wine, famous in the Middle Ages, which was shipped from the port of Monemvasia in the south-eastern Peloponnese. It is often blended with other autochthonous varieties such as Fokiano and Koriostafylo. However, no stocks were reported in 2016 (Kym Anderson).
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