Sometimes known as Graciana this variety used to make up a higher proportion of Rioja's vineyards than it does today.
Characteristics: This late budding vine which can be prone to rot can produce wines of great sunstance with plenty of extract although it can be quite tannic when young.
Where is it found?: Rioja and Navarra in Spain, in California where it is known as Xeres, also to a limited extent in Australia and Argentina.
Wines associated: Spain, South America and Australia