The red grape variety (also Kaladok) is a new cross between Grenache Noir (Garnacha Tinta) x Cot, which was confirmed by DNA analyses carried out in 2013. The cross was made in 1958 by the Frenchman Paul Truel (1924-2014) on behalf of INRAE at the Domaine de Vassal. The medium to late ripening vine is resistant to coulure (the primary breeding objective) and botrytis, and not very susceptible to powdery mildew. It produces colourful, tannin- and alcohol-rich red wines, but is also used for the production of rosé wines. The variety is widespread in the south of France, where it occupies a total of 3,062 hectares. In Portugal, it is mainly cultivated in the Lisboa region on 2,180 hectares. There are also other smaller populations in Argentina (15 ha), Brazil (0.3 ha), Spain, Lebanon, Morocco and Switzerland (0.2 ha). In 2016, a total of 5,258 hectares of vineyards were reported, with an upward trend. The variety is thus ranked 111th in the global grape variety ranking (Kym Anderson statistics).
![]()
The wein.plus encyclopaedia is a comprehensive, well-researched reference work. Available anytime and anywhere, it has become an indispensable part of teaching, used by students and myself alike. Highly recommended!
Dominik Trick
Technischer Lehrer, staatl. geprüfter Sommelier, Hotelfachschule Heidelberg