Grape Merseguera

 

This grape is typical of the Spanish Levante, although there are certainly fewer and fewer hectares planted with it, since it is a grape little recognized to date, being even despised for years by many winegrowers.

 

Within the Valencian Community, where it is estimated that 70% of the Merseguera in Spain is grown, this grape is especially present in the Alto Turia region, although it can also be found in the wine appellations of Utiel-Requena and in the Alicante Vinalopó. Outside this community, the Merseguera is admitted in the wine regions of Castilla-La Mancha and Murcia, as well as in Tarragona and Penedés.

 

One of the main characteristics of this variety is its great resistance to drought, which is why it is especially valuable in regions where little rainfall is recorded at the end of the year, as is the case with those previously mentioned. Its ripening cycle is long, especially if it grows in high mountain climates or in vineyards located at high altitudes, factors that affect a slower ripening, which makes it a late-pick variety.

 

The Merseguera cluster is generally medium in size and not too compact, with round, yellowish-green berries. Regarding its alcohol content, it is usually quite low (between 11 and 12% vol), with a good balance between acidity and pH.

 

As for the soils, this variety adapts very well to poor and dry soils, developing well both in glass and trellis plantations. Regarding sensitivities, Merseguera is especially vulnerable to powdery mildew and botrytis.

 

The wines it produces are characterized by having a pale, straw-colored tone. In cooler areas, it tends to produce fine wines, with herbaceous and light fruity aromas and medium-low acidity, making it ideal for young whites that are quickly consumed. On the contrary, in warmer areas, the wines tend to have a greater alcoholic presence, which is why this grape is also used to obtain semi-sweet wines.