The red grape variety originates from Sardinia(Italy) or Spain. Synonyms are Barberone, Bovale, Falso Gregu, Giacomino, Grossa da Serra, Morescone, Morescono, Muresconu, Negroni, Nera Tomentosa, Nerona di Viggiano, Niedda Mannu, Nieddou Mannu, Nieddu Mannu Nero, Nieddu Mannu Nero a Sorso, Nieddu Pedra Serra, Pascale di Cagliari, Pascale Nero, Pascali, Pascali di Cagliari, Pasquale, Picciolo Rosso and Primidivu Nieddu.

The variety was first mentioned in documents in 1780. As with many other Sardinian varieties, it is believed to have been introduced during the Spanish occupation (1323-1720), which is confirmed by its parentage. According to DNA analyses carried out in 2017, it originates from a presumably natural cross between Hebén x Monastrell. However, this is based on only 22 DNA markers (see molecular genetics). It should not be confused with the Graciano (Bovale), Mazuelo (Bovale Grande), Monica Nera (Pascale Sardu), Nieddera or Nieddu Mannu varieties due to some of the same synonyms or morphological similarities.
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