Vertzami

The red grape variety comes from Greece. Synonyms are Balsamina Nera, Barsami, Deykaditiko, Lefcas, Lefkada, Lefkaditiko, Lefkas, Leukaditiko, Martzami, Marzavi, Varsami, Vartzami, Varzami and Versami. There is a presumption that there is a common ancestor with the Italian variety Marzemino. Allegedly Vertzami is said to have been imported from Italy during the Venetian rule in the 14th century. However, genetic and historical evidence for this is missing. The ancestry (parentage) is unknown. There is also a white variety called Vertzami Lefko (Asprovertzamo, Vertzami Aspro). It is not known if it is a colour mutation or if there is a genetic connection.

The medium to late-maturing, high-yielding vine is generally resistant to vine diseases, but susceptible to downy mildew. It produces dark-coloured red wines, rich in tannins, alcohol and acidity, with aromas of laurel, cinnamon and dark forest fruits. These are also used as Teinturier (dyer's grape). The variety is cultivated on the Ionian island of Lefkada (Lefkas), Crete, Peloponnese and central Greece. It is often blended with Cabernet Franc. In 2016, 60 hectares of vineyards were designated in Greece (statistics Kym Anderson).

Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012

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Vertzami

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