Definition - What does Vitis Vinifera mean?
In the context of wine grape vine species, Vitis Vinifers is a native grape vine of temperate growing regions in the Northern Hemisphere and a member of the family Vitaceae. There are between 5,000 to 10,000 different varietals of Vitis Vinifera, although not all are widely cultivated or used for wine production. Varietals of Vitis Vinifera account for the majority of commercially planted grapes more so than any other species. Vitis Vinfera varietals are used for wine, food (raisins), juice and for use in other foods.
WineFrog explains Vitis Vinifera
Vitis Vinifera is one of the oldest fruit crops, with seed evidence dating back to 4500 BC. Grapes from Vitis Vinifera were used to make wine as early as 2500 BC, although there is no detail of when or where the vine was first domesticated. The Vitis Vinifera vine is an active climber and can grow up to 60 feet if not pruned or trained. Vitis Vinifera produces both red and white varietal grapes that contain high amounts of sugar, tartaric and malic acids, with soft juicy flesh and high acid, making them excellent for wine production. Popular wine grape varietals of Vitis Vinifera include:
- Pinot Noir
- Cabernet Franc
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Pinot Gris for white varietals.