Rabigato

The white grape variety originates from Portugal. The verbalised name referring to the elongated grape shape means "cat's tail" (Rabo de Gato), some synonyms also suggest it with "monkey's tail" or "sheep's tail". Synonyms are Alva, Baldsena, Carrega Besta, Estreito, Estreito Macios, Muscatel Brava, Muscatel Bravo, Não Há, Rabigato Respigueiro, Rabisgatos, Rabo de Asno, Rabo de Carneiro, Rabo de Gato, Rodrigo Affonso, Rodrigo Alfonso, Roupeiro (Portugal); Puesta en Cruz (Spain). It should not be confused with the varieties Donzelinho Branco, Estreito Macio, Fernão Pires (synonym Maria Gomes), Malvasia Fina or Rabo de Ovelha (synonym Rabigato), despite seemingly suggestive synonyms or morphological similarities. According to DNA analyses, the variety originates from a presumably natural cross between Cayetana Blanca x unknown partner. Direct descendants are the varieties Côdega de Larinho, Praca and Rabigato Moreno. The early to medium ripening vine is susceptible to both powdery mildew and botrytis. It produces white wines rich in alcohol and acidity, with aromas of lemon and orange blossom and a subtle muscat tone. The variety was first mentioned in 1771. It is mainly cultivated in the Douro Valley; smaller stocks also exist in the Vinho Verde area. In 2016, 1,969 hectares of vines were reported (Kym Anderson).

Rabigato - Weintraube und Blatt

Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012.
Images: From Wines of Portugal, CC BY 3.0, Link

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Rabigato

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