Clinton (grape)

Clinton is a red variety of hybrid grape. Its strong resistance to phylloxera and mildews led to its being planted in several European countries, as well as Brazil. Wines made from Clinton can have fruity flavors sometimes associated with raspberry or strawberry and dark red color.

History

Clinton is a spontaneous cross between the North American species Vitis riparia and Vitis labrusca. The first seedling was found in New York State by Hugh White in 1835. After phylloxera arrived in Europe, it was planted in northern Italy, Switzerland and Austria.

Distribution and wines

It is grown in Brazil, France, and Italian Switzerland. In Austria it is one of the hybrid grapes used in Uhudler wines.
In France it is illegal to sell commercially. In Italy it is known as Clinton, and is sometimes confused with the vitis x labruscana variety Isabella, known as "Fragola" in Italy. Ubriaco al Fragola Clinto is a Veneto cheese rubbed with the must of Fragola and Clinton.

Vine and viticulture

It is a vigorous and early-maturing variety with small, black berries. It is very resistant to most mildews that affect grapevines as well as phylloxera.

Synonyms

Bacchus Black Clinton Rose, Plant Des Carmes, Plant Pouzin, Red Ciliano, Vorthington, Worthington, Zephirin, Clinto, Fragola, Erdbeerer.