The red grape variety originates from Spain. Synonyms are Black, Black Lisbon, Black Portugal, Black Tokay, Gros Maroc, Black Saint Peters, Black Spanish, Merediths's Alicante, Sainte Marie d'Alcantara and Speechley's Alicante. It may be confused with the Merlot or Trincadeira varieties (both with synonym Black Alicante). According to DNA analyses carried out in 2013, it is a presumably natural cross between Black Morocco x Verjus Blanc. However, this is based on only 20 DNA markers (see Molecular Genetics). The vine was already cultivated as table grape in greenhouses in many European countries in the 18th century. It was a crossing partner in the five new varieties Brant, Canada, Cornucopia and Golden Queen. No stocks were reported in 2016 (Kym Anderson statistics).
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