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The white wine grape variety Calardis blanc bred at the state-run Julius Kühn Institute Geilweilerhof (JKI) is the first variety with multiple resistance to downy mildew. It is also resistant to black rot, grey mould (botrytis) and powdery mildew, the JKI announced. It received variety protection at the end of January 2018.

"This new generation of grape varieties, to which we count Calardis blanc, has decisive advantages. The variety can be used to produce excellent quality wines, and it is the first grape variety to have several resistances to the dreaded downy mildew fungus in its genetic make-up," explains Prof. Dr Reinhard Töpfer, head of the JKI Institute for Grapevine Breeding Geilweilerhof. In addition, Calardis blanc has a high resistance to grey mould and black rot as well as a good resistance to powdery mildew fungi. Grey mould and black rot would become more important for German viticulture in the future in the course of climate change.

Calardis blanc is the result of crossing a breeding line from the Geilweilerhof, which contains characteristics of the Bacchus grape variety, and a breeding line from French breeders. Both parents have different resistance genes to downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola). These could be combined in Calardis blanc. According to the JKI, the grape and berry size of Calardis blanc is comparable to that of Riesling. However, the grape is looser. Together with the firm berry skin, this is considered an important reason for the good resistance to botrytis. The ripening time of the grapes is usually in the time window between Pinot Blanc and Riesling. The wines produced from them present themselves fruity and delicately spicy with discreet aromas and are "suitable for balmy summer evenings".

With the granting of the variety protection, the first stage of the examination of the new grape variety at the Bundessortenamt has been completed. The second stage of testing for a more detailed characterisation of the viticultural and quality traits has already been initiated. The JKI expects an entry in the variety list in 2020.

(uka / Photo: Julius Kühn-Institut)

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