Odesa Black: Must-taste local grapes
Descriptors: black pepper, blackberry, jammy notes
This red grape called Odesa Black, or Alibernet, originates from the crossing of Alicante Bouschet and Cabernet Sauvignon. This variety was created in 1948 by Tairov Institute of Viniculture and Winemaking in Tairovo village, Odesa region.
Nowadays, Odesa Black is grown in Ukraine as well as in Slovakia, Czechia and Hungary. Most winemakers claim that this variety is not easy to work with, as it needs a lot of attention to reach proper ripeness.
- Aroma: Wines made from Odesa Black exhibit complex aromas of dark berries, such as blackberry, blueberry, and plum. There are often secondary notes of black pepper, spices, leather, and occasionally smoke.
- Flavour: The wines tend to have a rich and full flavour profile with pronounced notes of black fruits, especially plum and blackberry, along with spices. The tannins are well-structured, contributing to a robust mouthfeel and a long finish.
- Colour: One of the standout features of Odesa Black is its deep, dark ruby or even purple hue, which is due to its high anthocyanin content.
- Body: Wines from this variety typically have a full body, with a solid structure, making them suitable for ageing.
- Acidity: Moderate to high acidity gives the wines freshness and balance, preventing the richness from becoming overwhelming.
- Usage: Odesa Black is primarily used to produce single-varietal wines, but it can also be blended with other red grape varieties. It is particularly known for dry red wines, although it can also be used for sweet or semi-sweet wines.
Odesa Black is gaining increasing recognition in Ukraine and abroad for its potential to produce complex, full-bodied wines with a distinct character. It is a variety that reflects the unique climate and soil conditions of southern Ukraine.