The red grape variety originates from Italy. Synonyms are Africano, Angolano, Cordiscio, Cordisco, Cordisio, Montepulciano Crni, Montepulciano Cordesco, Montepulciano Cordisco, Monte Pulciano, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, Montepulciano di Torre de Passeri, Montepulciano Primatico, Montepulciano Spargolo, Morellone, Premutico, Primaticcio, Primitivo, Primutico, Pugnitello, Sangiovese Cardisco, Sangiovese Cardisco, Sangiovese Cordisco, S. Giovese, Uva Abruzzese, Uva Abruzzi and Violone. The variety was named after the Tuscan town in the province of Siena. The parentage is unknown. It must not be confused with the Sangiovese variety (Montepulciano Primaticcio), despite seemingly suggestive synonyms or morphological similarities. According to DNA analyses, the Pugnitello variety is genetically identical, although it is listed as an independent variety in Italy. The late-ripening vine is resistant to botrytis and downy mildew. The deep-dark red wines are often used as a colour- and tannin-enhancing blending partner.
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Dr. Christa Hanten
Fachjournalistin, Lektorin und Verkosterin, Wien