Grasa de Cotnari: A Romanian Grape Variety for Wine Production

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Grasa de Cotnari is a renowned Romanian grape variety cultivated in the Cotnari vineyard for centuries.

This grape variety possesses unique ampelographic characteristics, such as medium-sized leaves with dark green coloration and trilobite or entire shapes. The flowers of Grasa de Cotnari are hermaphrodite, and the grape berries are cylindrical-conical in shape with thin greenish-yellow skin. The grapes are harvested in late October after over-ripening and botrytis cinerea have occurred, resulting in a production of 7-8 tons per hectare.

The resulting Cotnari wines from Grasa de Cotnari are diverse, with dry, semi-dry, sweet, and even noble sweet wines offering a range of delightful flavors like apples, apricots, peaches, and honey.

Grasa de Cotnari: The Ancient Grape Variety of Romania

Grasa de Cotnari grapes in the early morning sun, after ripening.

Cultivation in Cotnari Vineyard

When it comes to Romanian grape varieties, Grasa de Cotnari stands out as one of the most historical and important. This variety has been cultivated in the renowned Cotnari vineyard for centuries, at least since Peter II (1444-1449), and its presence has remained consistent, especially since 1956. Its significance in the region cannot be overstated, as it has played a vital role in the production of quality Romanian wines.

Ampelographic Characters

Its unique ampelographic characters can easily identify Grasa de Cotnari. The adult leaf is characterized by its shape and size. The leaf’s limb is a dark green color with mesophyll deformations, resembling hammer strikes, and reddish main nerves.

Photo of Grasa de Cotnari grapes on the vine during the early morning sun at the Cotnari winery.

Hermaphrodite Flower

One fascinating aspect of Grasa de Cotnari is its hermaphrodite flower. This means the variety possesses both male and female reproductive organs, allowing it to partially self-fertilize. However, the self-fertilization percentage is relatively low, with only 50-60% of the pollen germinating successfully.

Grape Berry Characteristics

The grape berries of Grasa de Cotnari are cylindrical-conical in shape and range from medium to large in size. What sets them apart is their uneven size and ovoid shape, as well as their thin skin, which is a greenish-yellow color with rust-colored shades on the sunny side. The pulp of the berries is slightly crispy, with a pleasant taste.

Harvesting and Production

Harvesting Grasa de Cotnari grapes is usually done in late October. Before the harvest, the grapes go through a process of over-ripening, resembling raisins, and become affected by botrytis cinerea, also known as noble rot. This natural occurrence contributes to the unique flavor profile of the wine produced from these grapes. Grape production typically ranges around 7-8 tons per hectare, but after the over-ripening process, it drops to 4-5 tons per hectare.

Sugar Concentration

The sugar concentration in Grasa de Cotnari grapes is a notable characteristic of this variety. On average, the sugar concentration reaches 260-280g/l. However, in exceptional years, this concentration can exceed 350g/l. This high sugar content contributes to the richness and sweetness of the wines produced from these grapes.

Drought Sensitivity and Resistance

Grasa de Cotnari is known to be a drought-sensitive variety. It requires a sufficient water supply to thrive and produce high-quality grapes. Additionally, it has medium to good resistance to frost, tolerating temperatures as low as -20°C. However, it shows low resistance to powdery mildew, making it susceptible to fungal diseases. It is also particularly sensitive to grey rot, which can affect the quality and yield of the grapes.

Wine Production

Grasa de Cotnari is a versatile grape variety used to produce various types of wines at the 1700-hectare Cotnari winery. The wines produced range from dry and semi-dry to sweet and even noble sweet wines, made from grapes affected by noble rot. The production process involves carefully selecting the grapes and fermenting them under controlled conditions to preserve their unique characteristics.

Smell and Taste

The aroma and flavor profile of Grasa de Cotnari wines are truly delightful. Dry wines made from this variety exude notes of apples, apricots, and peaches, creating a refreshing and crisp experience. On the other hand, sweet wines produced from Grasa de Cotnari grapes offer a complex array of aromas, including honey, raisins, green nutmeat, and almonds, resulting in a lusciously sweet and indulgent taste.

Historical Continuity in Cotnari Vineyard

The cultivation of Grasa de Cotnari in the Cotnari vineyard has been a continuous tradition for centuries, since Peter II (1444-1449). This grape variety has managed to withstand the test of time and maintain its presence in this historic winemaking region. Its resilience and adaptability have made it an integral part of the viticulture practices in Cotnari.

Importance of Grasa de Cotnari in the Region

Grasa de Cotnari holds immense importance in the wine region of Cotnari. Its unique characteristics and exceptional quality make it a coveted grape variety for winemakers. The wines produced from Grasa de Cotnari grapes have gained national and international recognition, establishing the vineyard’s reputation as a hub for premium wine production.

Climatic Conditions in Cotnari Vineyard

The Cotnari vineyard benefits from favorable climatic conditions that contribute to the successful cultivation of Grasa de Cotnari and other grape varieties. The region experiences a moderate continental climate with warm summers and temperate winters. This ideal climate allows the grapes to ripen fully and develop their distinct flavors.

Soil Requirements

Grasa de Cotnari thrives in the soil of the Cotnari vineyard, which possesses specific characteristics conducive to grape cultivation. The soil in this region is a combination of clay, limestone, and sand, providing excellent drainage and fertility. These soil properties enhance the grape’s ability to absorb essential nutrients, producing healthy vines and high-quality grapes.

In conclusion, Grasa de Cotnari is a remarkable Romanian grape variety that has stood the test of time. Its unique ampelographic characters, hermaphrodite flowers, and distinct grape berry characteristics contribute to producing exceptional wines.

The cultivation of Grasa de Cotnari in the Cotnari vineyard has a long-standing historical continuity, and its importance in the region cannot be overstated. The combination of favorable climatic conditions and suitable soil requirements further enhances the growth and quality of this grape variety. Whether the dry wines have fruity aromas or the sweet wines with indulgent flavors, Grasa de Cotnari wines offer a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts.

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