The red grape variety originates from Spain. Synonyms grouped alphabetically by country are Bonvedro, False Carignan (Australia); Espagnin Noir (France); Bastardo, Bonvedro, Bomvedro, Lambrusco de Alentejo, Monvedro, Monvedro do Algarve, Monvedro de Sines, Monvedro Tinto, Murteira, Olho Branco, Pau Ferro, Perrel, Preto Foz, Preto João Mendes, Tinta Caiada, Tinta Grossa, Tinta Lameira, Tintorro, Torres de Algarve (Portugal); Bonifaccencu, Bonifacienco, Carenisca, Caricagiola (Sardinia); Bastardo, Cua Tendra, Muristellu, Parrel, Salceño Negro (Spain). Despite seemingly suggestive synonyms or morphological similarities, it should not be confused with the varieties Graciano, Mazuelo (Carignan) or Monvedro. DNA analyses showed that Carcajolo Noir, Carenisca, Parraleta, Salceño Negro and Tinta Caiada are identical.
The variety probably originates from the Spanish Somontano area in the province of Huelva. It was already mentioned under the name Parrel in 1765. The vine probably spread from Spain to Portugal, as well as via Sardinia to Corsica (or vice versa). The early ripening vine is susceptible to botrytis. It produces deep, dark, alcohol-rich red wines with a fragrant aroma. It was widespread in Spain until the 1970s. Since then, the area has decreased drastically: in 2010, 56 hectares were recorded, but in 2016, no more. In Portugal, it is mostly cultivated under the name Tinta Caiada and occupies 114 hectares. In Italy, it is cultivated in Apulia, Veneto and under the name Carcajolo Nero on 96 hectares in Sardinia. There are also small populations in Australia (0.2 ha), under the name Carcajolo Noir in Corsica and in France (2 ha). In 2016, 212 hectares of vines were reported (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
