Description
Muscat d’ Alexandrie is a versatile white grape variety, best known for the sweet wines it produces. It is a derivative of the Muscat family. A pink berried version exists, known as Flame Muscat in California and Rooi Hanepoot in South Africa.
Origins
The variety has its origins in the Mediterranean. The general conception is that it originated in a region near the Port of Alexandria, therefore the name Muscat d ’Alexandrie, and that Phoenician traders took it to ancient Greece, from where it was taken to the rest of Europe.Other Names
It is known as Muscat Romain in certain parts of the world and referred to as Hanepoot in South Africa.Production in South Africa
It is believed to be the “Spanish druyfen”, which in English means Spanish grapes, that Jan van Riebeeck referred to in his diary, so has most probably been among the first grape varieties to be imported into South Africa. The variety is a popular winter warmer.Production Regions
The grapes like hot sunny areas with low humidity. It is planted in all the wine producing regions of South Africa, with the Breedekloof accounting for the largest area under production, followed by the Olifants River.Growth and Ripening
It is a moderate grower with high production potential, ranting between 20 t/ha to 23 t/ha depending on production conditions. It ripens late, towards the end of March.
Berries and Leaves
Berries are large and round with green skin that turns yellowish-white, almost pale gold, when ripe. The skin is thin, yet tough, while the flesh is clear, juicy and sweet. The leaves are dark green, medium-sized and five lobed.