The red grape variety originates from Sardinia-Italy. Synonyms are Gros Pascal, Jacobin Violet, Manzesu, Monaca, Monaca Nera, Monica di Sardegna, Monica di Spagna, Monika Nera, Monique, Niedda de Ispagna, Niedda Mora, Nieddera Manna, Österreichs Habamonthe, Pansale Nero, Pansale Nieddu, Pansaleddu, Pascale Sardu, Pascal Noir, Pascansalo, Plant Pascal and Uva Monaca. It should not be confused with the varieties Nieddera or Pascale, despite seemingly suggestive synonyms or morphological similarities. Nothing is known about a possible genetic relationship with the white variety Pascal Blanc. As with many other Sardinian varieties, it is assumed that it was introduced during the Spanish occupation (1323-1720) and spread by monks (Monaci). The Spanish origin is supported by a DNA analysis carried out in 2013. This is because Monica Nera comes from a presumably natural crossing of the Spanish variety Hebén with an unknown partner. However, this is based on only 20 DNA markers (see Molecular Genetics).
The medium-maturing, high-yielding vine is resistant to spring frosts and powdery mildew, but less resistant to downy mildew. It yields dark-coloured, simple red wines. The vine is also used as table grape. It is spread all over the island and is permitted in the DOC wines of Cagliari, Campidano di Terralba, Mandrolisai and Monica di Sardegna. The variety is cultivated on 1,203 hectares in Italy with a strong downward trend. Small areas also exist in France and Tunisia; but no stocks were recorded here in 2016 (Kym Anderson).
Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012
Images: M.I.P.A.F - National Vine Certification Service
