Duras

The red grape variety originates from France. Synonyms are Cabernet Duras, Durade, Duras, Durasca, Duras Femelle, Duras Male, Duras Rouge and Durazé. The name derives from "dur" (hard) and refers to the vine's hard wood. It should not be confused with the Italian variety Ner d'Ala (Dúras). According to an unverifiable hypothesis, it is a descendant of the ancient grape variety Duracina mentioned by Cato (234-149 BC) and Columella (1st century AD). It was first reliably mentioned in 1842 in Gaillac in southwest France. According to DNA analyses carried out in 2013, it originates from a presumably natural cross between Tressot Noir x Savagnin Blanc (Traminer). However, this is based on only 20 DNA markers (see Molecular Genetics). Previously, it had been considered the parent variety of Tressot Noir. The medium-maturing vine is susceptible to black spot disease, powdery mildew and eutypiosis. It produces full-bodied, alcohol-rich, dark-coloured red wines with strong acidity and a peppery note. The variety is grown in the département of Tarn. In 2016, 785 hectares of vines were reported, with a downward trend (Kym Anderson statistics).

Duras - Weintreaube und Blatt

Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012
Images: Ursula Brühl, Doris Schneider, Julius Kühn-Institut (JKI)

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Duras

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