Negru de Dragasani: A Romanian Grape Variety for Wine Production

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Negru de Dragasani: A Unique Romanian Grape Variety

Let me introduce you to a fascinating Romanian grape variety called Negru de Dragasani. This particular grape variety was created through careful selection by Marculescu M. and Vladasel M. at SCDVV Dragasani. It is a result of the hybridization between Negru Vartos and Saperavi and was released in 1993.

Negru de Dragasani has become known for its unique characteristics, including medium-sized leaves, cylindrical-shaped grapes, and a rich taste. With its good resistance to frost and mildew, it has shown great potential in wine production, reaching full maturity in mid-September. Its high anthocyanin content and freshness make it suitable for aging in oak barrels and pairing with a variety of dishes. Negru de Dragasani is truly a standout grape variety in the world of Romanian wine production.

Ampelographic Characters: Uniquely Beautiful

Negru de Dragasani presents a distinctive set of ampelographic characteristics that make it a visually striking grape variety. The adult leaves are medium-sized, with three to five lobes, and are linty on the lowerside. The flowers are normal hermaphrodite, adding to the grape’s natural beauty.

When it comes to the grapes themselves, they are medium-sized and cylindrical in shape. They can be uniaxial, bi-winged, or three-winged, providing an interesting visual element. The berries are medium-sized, weighing between 2.0 – 2.5 grams. They have an egg-shaped form and a mesmerizing bluish-black color. The pulp is red and juicy, lending it a luscious texture, and has a rich taste that is sure to captivate wine lovers.

The Vegetation Period and Log Characteristics: A Balanced Variety

Negru de Dragasani boasts a 180-185 day vegetation period, beginning with bud opening in mid-April. The logs of this grape variety demonstrate medium vigor and good fertility, making it suitable for successful cultivation. Additionally, Negru de Dragasani exhibits good resistance to frost and mildew, ensuring its ability to thrive in various climates. It also possesses a medium resistance to mildew and gray mold, further enhancing its viability as a cultivated grape. With a yield potential of 4.8-10-16 tonnes per hectare, Negru de Dragasani offers a balanced production capability that can satisfy both small-scale and large-scale wine productions.

Maturity and Sugar Content: A Palate Pleasing Composition

In terms of maturity, Negru de Dragasani grapes reach their full ripeness in mid-September. At this stage, the grapes accumulate an average sugar content of 233-234 grams per liter, contributing to their natural sweetness. The acidity level, measured by H2SO4, is around 4.5 grams per liter, striking a nice balance with the grape’s sugar content. Moreover, Negru de Dragasani grapes exhibit a high anthocyanin content, presenting a beautiful deep color that adds to their visual appeal.

Freshness and Fruitiness: A Delightful Combination

One of the most exciting aspects of Negru de Dragasani is its ability to offer a fresh and fruity flavor profile. When tasting wines made from this grape, you can expect notes of black cherry, cherries, blueberries, blackberries, sloes, and a touch of spices. This combination creates a vibrant and enticing sensory experience, making Negru de Dragasani wines stand out among other red grape varieties.

Aging Potential: Unveiling Complexity

For those who appreciate the depth and complexity of aged wines, Negru de Dragasani holds great promise. It is suitable for aging in oak barrels, allowing the grape’s flavors and aromas to develop and harmonize over time. As it continues to mature in bottles, Negru de Dragasani unlocks new layers of complexity, providing a rewarding experience for wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.

Food Pairing: Versatility on the Table

Negru de Dragasani’s versatility extends beyond its winemaking potential. This grape pairs wonderfully with a range of dishes, complementing their flavors and enhancing the overall dining experience. It can be served alongside young and fresh cheese, creating a delightful contrast between the tanginess of the cheese and the grape’s fruitiness. Additionally, Negru de Dragasani pairs excellently with red meat, bringing out the richness and boldness of both elements. For pasta or risotto lovers, this grape variety adds a touch of sophistication and depth to these dishes, making them even more enjoyable.

Conclusion: A Treasure Waiting to be Discovered

Negru de Dragasani is a hidden gem in the world of grape varieties, offering a unique sensory experience through its ampelographic characteristics, vibrant flavors, and aging potential. Whether you are an avid wine collector or an adventurous wine enthusiast, exploring Negru de Dragasani wines will undoubtedly uncover a treasure worth savoring. So, next time you find yourself perusing the wine aisle or planning a visit to a Romanian winery, keep an eye out for Negru de Dragasani, and prepare to embark on a journey of taste and discovery.

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