This variety was obtained by Louis and Henri Bouschet in 1855 at Mauguio (Hérault) by crossbreeding Grenache N with Petit Bouschet N (Aramon X Teinturier du Cher).
In France, this variety may officially be called "Alicante Bouschet N" concerning plant propagating material.In the European Union, Alicante Henri Bouschet N can officially be designated by other names: Alikant bushe (Bulgaria), Garnacha tintorera (Spain) and Negral (Spain).
In France, Alicante Henri Bouschet N is officially listed in the "Catalogue of Vine Varieties".This variety is likewise listed in Catalogues in other European Union member states: Bulgaria, Cyprus, Spain, Greece, Italy and Portugal.
Wine grape variety
Bud burst: 4 days after Chasselas.Grape maturity: II period, 2 1/2 weeks to 3 weeks after Chasselas.
Suitability for cultivation and agronomic production
This vine variety is quite vigorous but must be pruned short because it tends to become depleted. It is likewise sensitive to wind.
Alicante Henri Bouschet N is not very sensitive to powdery mildew. On the other hand, it is highly prone to downy mildew, phomopsis and flavescence dorée and quite susceptible to bacterial necrosis. It is likewise susceptible to wood disease.
The clusters are medium to large and the berries are medium size. This coloring vine variety is essentially used for its color input. Wines obtained are rather fleshy, oftentimes flat and lack finesse and elegance.
The four approved Alicante Henri Bouschet N clones carry the numbers 803.