The white grape variety originates from Spain. Synonyms are Gibi (Argentina); Augibi, Jubi Blanc, Maccabeu à Gros Grains, Panse Blanche, Passerille Blanche, Tercia Blanc (France); Monica Bianca, Mora Bianca, Mora Bianca di Sini, Panse Blanche, Pansale, Panzale (Italy); Mourisco Branco (Portugal); Alzibib, Auzebi, Aparia, Even de Yepes, Gibi, Laco Blanco, Lekel Aneb, Lekhal Aneb, Pansera, Torrontés(Spain). The parentage is unknown. The presumably very old variety was first mentioned in documents at the beginning of the 16th century. According to an unverifiable hypothesis, it was introduced to Andalusia by the Arabs under the name Alzibib (Zibebe = sultana). According to DNA analyses, it has numerous direct descendants through presumably natural crossings and is therefore considered an important Spanish leading variety:
This is an all-female grape variety. It used to be widespread in France and Spain, but is now only used here as table grape. In Argentina, it is used under Gibi as a wine grape and for grape juice. Here, a stock of 785 hectares was reported in 2016, with a strong downward trend (Kym Anderson statistics).
Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012.
Images: M.I.P.A.F - National Vine Certification Service
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