- Authors: Vierul, Moldova
- Appointment: technical
- Berry color: White
- Taste: harmonious, nutmeg
- Ripening period: mid-late
- Ripening period, days: 145-150
- Frost resistance, ° C: -25
- Bunch weight, g: 250-300
- Yield: 90-100 c / ha
- Flower type: bisexual
Moldovan grape Viorica belongs to technical varieties. Obtained for the production of dry white wines. Due to the intensity of the bouquet, it can confidently be attributed to aromatic varieties.
Breeding history
The variety appeared in 1969 thanks to the staff of the Moldavian Research Institute of Life Sciences "Vierul". Local breeders have successfully crossed two varieties: the Italian Aleatico and the French Seibel 13-666. The Viorica variety was released in 1990.
It is noteworthy that from the red "parents" (on one the berries are almost black in color, on the other - deep blue) a white variety appeared. In the USSR, it was used mainly for the production of simple table wines, considering it unsuitable for elite alcoholic beverages.
With the development of winemaking technology, Viorica got a new chance. He has shown himself to be on the good side in the production of more complex wines. The drinks are distinguished by their golden color and amber tint, full-bodied taste and moderate acidity.
Geography of distribution
Viorica is a so-called indigenous variety, cultivated only in specific areas. It is grown mainly on vineyards in Moldova and Russia.
Description
The Viorica variety is distinguished by rather tall bushes. Demonstrates good growth vigor. Fruiting is up to 90% of all shoots.
The leaf is medium-sized, with a distinctly dissected lamina.
Ripening period
The hybrid culture Viorica belongs to the mid-late varieties. The full growing season takes 145-150 days. Usually berries ripen in mid-September.
Bunches
A not too large bunch is formed from the fruits, shaped in a cylindrical-conical shape. A round, long leg is typical for her.
On young shoots, up to two bunches are tied, and mature ones give twice as much. These clusters are medium in density, weighing about 300 g.
Berries
Viorica's white fruits are characterized by their typical tan. The skin on the fruit is dense and thin. What is pleasantly reflected in the taste when eating berries.
The pulp is juicy. Inside the rounded berries there are usually 2-3 seeds. The weight of one grape is about 2 g.
Taste
Viorica belongs to the wine category of white table grape varieties. This determines the flavor of the berries. It is harmonious, with a nutmeg undertone, floral aroma and tangible sourness. Sugar content 180-200 g / dm3 with acidity 7-9 g / dm3.
Yield
This figure is 90-100 c / ha. The variety is more adapted to grow in the climate typical of Moldova. The local vineyards harvest a record amount of crops even in the driest summer.
Growing features
The variety is cultivated on a high stem. The grapes do not need much maintenance.
Landing
Planting seedlings is not difficult. First of all, you need to properly prepare the landing pit. First, a layer of expanded clay 10 cm is poured into it.Further, in the same layer, a mixture of ash mixed with sand, humus and the top layer of soil.
Pollination
The flower is bisexual, pollination occurs naturally.
Pruning
A moderate load on the bush is recommended, within 45-50 eyes. Shown is a short cut, keeping up to 6-8 eyes.
Watering
At the beginning of the growing season, Viorica bushes especially need watering. Irrigation stops 1.5 months before the grape harvest.
Frost resistance and the need for shelter
This variety is quite frost-hardy. In a non-sheltering environment, the vine remains under the snow cover at a temperature of -25 degrees. Even injured by frost, in the spring she is able to recover.
Diseases and pests
The hybrid Moldovan variety is resistant to such traditional ailments as gray rot and powdery mildew. This makes it economical for gardeners who can get by without processing costs. At the same time, the harvest turns out to be environmentally friendly.
But experienced gardeners recommend to carry out preventive treatment of grape plantings with special antifungal drugs twice a season.
If a grape is exposed to any disease or insect, this always affects its appearance.
Storage
Viorica grapes are well transported folded in one layer in dry boxes. When sending it for long-term storage, it is necessary to prepare a special dry and dark, not stuffy room. Storage air temperature is shown in the range from 0 to +8 degrees Celsius. In this case, the humidity should be about 60-70%.
Storage for a period of up to two months is carried out in boxes like trays. The bunches should not be too close to each other.
When stored for two months or more, low boxes are used, on the bottom of which a layer of sawdust is pre-poured. Bunches of grapes are also poured with sawdust.
If their weight is more than 1 kg, they fit in one row, and smaller ones can be stacked on top of each other. The laid grapes are covered with a 7 cm layer of sawdust on top.
Review overview
Viorica berries produce aromatic and tasty juices and light, refreshing wines. In taste, the variety can compete with many nutmeg varieties, in particular, Torrontes and Albariño.
Scientists themselves position Viorica as one of the most successful varieties for the production of excellent, high-quality wine.