This red grape variety comes from France. The name (ouiller = to pare down) derives from the richness of the yield. Synonyms are Aragnan Noir, Araignan, Negra Gentile, Ouillade, Ouillard, Ouliade, Passerille Noire, Puillade and Veillade. It was first reliably mentioned in 1676 and should not be confused with the Cinsaut variety, which was often marketed under its name. The variety Oeillade Blanche (synonym for Picardan) is not a colour mutation. Oeillade Noir was a crossing partner in the new variety Oeillade Bouschet. The medium ripening vine is susceptible to botrytis and small berries (Millerandage). It yields dark-coloured, fruity, low-alcohol red wines and is also used as table grape. The variety was once widespread in the south of France in Provence, but the population declined sharply in the 20th century. In 2016, only 18 hectares of vines were reported (Kym Anderson statistics).
Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012
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Markus J. Eser
Weinakademiker und Herausgeber „Der Weinkalender“