The exciting
The Divico grape variety is a cross between Gamaret (Gamay x Reichensteiner) and Bronner (Merzling x Gm 6494). Budbreak is similar to that of Pinot Noir; in our vineyards, it is early. Flowering and berry set for the Divico variety occur early, and berry density ranges from loose to medium.
Fungus-resistant grape varieties (PIWI) support sustainable viticulture; they are resistant to downy mildew and, at least to some extent, to powdery mildew. These hybrids between our cultivated grapevines and wild grapevines from the Americas and Asia often ripen earlier and are less susceptible to frost.
Swiss viticulture statistics show that PIWIs account for approximately 3% of the vineyard area.
Fungus-resistant hybrid crosses simplify viticulture on steep slopes and in new wine-growing regions. Thanks to reduced reliance on pesticides, grape production is more environmentally friendly. PIWIs are not new. Here in Europe, more than 100 years ago, Albert Seibel and Eugène Kühlmann in particular crossed many new PIWI varieties that are still successfully cultivated today. Many breeders followed their lead. Albert Seibel alone recorded over 19,975 hybrid crosses.
In waves, roughly every 25 years, PIWIs receive renewed attention, yet they remain a niche market to this day. (Source: Andreas Meier Vine School)
Have fun exploring this variety.
