The red grape variety originates from Spain. Synonyms are Gorda, Tinta Gorda (Portugal); Cojón de Gato, Malvasía Negra, Mencía Gorda, Mouratón (2nd main name), Negreda Preta, Negrera, Négron de Aldán, Nepada, Tinta Negreda, Villarino (Spain). The picture shows an old vine in the Spanish DO area of Arribes.

According to DNA analyses carried out in 2020, this is probably a natural cross between Cayetana Blanca x Alfrocheiro. However, this is based on only 20 DNA markers (see molecular genetics). It should not be confused with the varieties Aramon Noir, Malvasia Nera di Brindisi (Malvasía Negra), Mencía, Petit Bouschet (Négron de Aldán) or Tempranillo due to some of the same synonyms or morphological similarities.
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