Durif grape is a deep-coloured, full-bodied variant specially cherished by winemakers for producing robust, tannic red wines. Originating from the Rhône wine region in France, it is the botanical offspring of two grape varieties – Peloursin and Syrah. The Durif grape was first propagated in the 1860s by Dr Francois Durif, a French botanist, from whom it derived its name.
Also commonly known as Petite Sirah, especially in America, the Durif grape tends to flourish in warmer climates. This hardy grape variety is notably recognised for its high resistance to downy mildew, a prevalent disease among vineyards. However, due to its dense and compact bunch structure, it is susceptible to several fungal diseases, requiring meticulous care and attention during cultivation and harvesting.
Durif grapes are predominantly used to craft sumptuous, intense wines that are generally high in both tannins and acidity. The wines usually boast a dark, nearly opaque colour along with notes of blackberry, plum, and pepper, often enticing wine enthusiasts with their complexity and longevity. This results in a rich, bold red wine that improves remarkably with age but can be enjoyed when young as well.
In the United Kingdom, Durif wines are loved for their robust, full-bodied nature. However, the cultivation of the Durif grape in British vineyards is rather scanty due to the comparatively cooler climate. Regions such as Australia and California have become synonymous with this grape variety, as their warmer climes prove to be the perfect breeding ground for the Durif grape.
In sum, the Durif grape may not rank among the most popular grape variants, but it has still managed to carve out a niche for itself in the wine world. With its propensity to yield impactful, complex wines, the Durif grape remains a cherished choice amongst fervent lovers of bolder red wines.
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