The red grape variety originates from Italy. Synonyms are Massase, Massese, Mazzese di Parlascio, Ortese, Orzese, Rinaldesca, Rinaldessa, Rinardesca, Uva Mazzese, Vaiano, Vajano and Valiano Nero. The ancestry (parentage) is unknown. It must not be confused with the varieties Ciliegiolo (syonym Mazzèse) or Fortana (synonym Orzese), despite seemingly suggestive synonyms or morphological similarities. The old Tuscan variety was mentioned at the beginning of the 18th century by the botanist Pier Antonio Micheli (1679-1737). The early-maturing vine is cultivated exclusively in Tuscany, especially in the province of Grosseto, as well as in Pisa. It is mainly used for blending. In 2016, 57 hectares of vines were reported 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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