The white grape variety originates from Spain. Synonyms are Carnal, Chelva de Cebreros, Chelva de Guareña, Dependura, Diagalo, Eva, Forastera Blanca, Formosa Dourada, Formosa Portalegre, Gabriela, Guarena, Mantúa, Mantúo (2nd main name), Mantúo de Pilas, Mantúo Vigiriego. Main name), Mantúo de Pilas, Mantúo Vigiriego, Montúa, Montúo de Villanueva, Montúo Gordo, Murecana, Pendura, Pendura Amarela, Raisin du Roi, Uva del Rey, Uva de Puerto Real, Uva Rey, Vigiriego Blanco and Villanueva. It should not be confused with the varieties Beba (Chelva), Dona Branca, Doradilla, Forastera or Vijariego, despite the synonyms or morphological similarities that seem to indicate this. According to DNA analyses carried out in 2020, the variety originates from a presumably natural cross between Hebén x Dedo de Dama. However, this is based on only 20 DNA markers (see under molecular genetics).
The medium-late ripening vine produces simple, neutral-tasting white wines that are mostly used as blends. It is also used extensively as table grape. The variety probably originates from the province of Badajoz in Extremadura in southwestern Spain, where it is permitted in the Ribera del Guadiana area. There are also other populations in Andalusia and Castile-León. The total Spanish area in 2016 was 5,029 hectares with a decreasing trend, of which around 90% is in Extremadura. It is thus ranked 113th in the world grape variety ranking (Kym Anderson statistics).
Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012
Ursula Brühl, Doris Schneider, Julius Kühn-Institut (JKI)
