The grape variety originates from France. Synonyms are Chardonnay, Chardonnay Rosa, Chasselas Roz, Piros Burgundi, Piros Chardonnay and Rosa Chardonnay (the latter name is valid in Germany for reasons of wine law, as the designation Rosé is reserved for the wine type). It is a colour mutation of the white Chardonnay variety, but it could also be the other way round. In any case, the basic variety was created by a presumably natural cross between Gouais Blanc x Pinot. In Germany, a selection was carried out in Geisenheim and an application for plant variety protection was filed in 2014. The company ANTES Weinbau & Rebenveredlung GbR in Heppenheim (Hesse) established a propagation vineyard at the "Wine and Stone Adventure Trail" in 2011 and from here numerous other experimental plants have been delivered in Germany in the meantime.
According to experience in Germany, the vine is less susceptible to rot and can therefore be harvested up to two weeks later than the white variety. Despite the reddish berries, it produces a white wine with a Chardonnay flavour reminiscent of tropical fruits, but which is described as more full-bodied and complex. The variety is also excellent for the production of sparkling wine. It was added to the catalogue of French grape varieties in 2018. Experiments and analytical tests are carried out by the INAO to verify its suitability for viticulture. It is believed to be resistant to the effects of climate change and to pests. In addition to the experimental plants in Germany, it is also found in the French regions of Burgundy and Champagne, as well as in the Italian region of Veneto. In 2016, however, no stocks have yet been identified (Kym Anderson).
Source and pictures: www.antes.de
