General information
Cabernet Cortis is a modern, red-colored grape variety that was crossed in 1982 at the Freiburg Wine Institute by Norbert Becker. The variety originated from Cabernet Sauvignon × Solaris, with the goal of developing a red wine variety for cooler climates, with the aromatic profile and extract value of classic Cabernet wines. The grape is particularly suitable for those who appreciate powerful wines with depth and ageing potential.

Grape
The grapes are large, elongated, and cylindrical, with a loose cluster structure and few shoulders. The berries are comparable in size to those of Burgundy grapes. Thanks to their open structure, they are less susceptible to mold.

Resistance

• Peronospora (downy mildew): ++
• Oidium (powdery mildew): ++
• Botrytis (gray mold): ++

Wine
Cabernet Cortis closely resembles classic Cabernet wines in both flavor and appearance, especially when harvested at full maturity. The wine is dark red to violet in color and rich in extract and phenols. You'll taste notes of blackcurrant jam, black currant, elderberry, and freshly ground pepper, with a powerful tannic structure. This grape is exceptionally well-suited for oak and bottle aging, producing wines with ageing potential and depth.

Cultivation advice
Cabernet Cortis has a vigorous, upright growth habit. The grape ripens about a week earlier than Pinot Noir, making it suitable for more northerly regions or those with short growing seasons. The plant has few demands on its location, but does benefit from good sun and air circulation.

Preparing the vine
Growth is vigorous yet manageable. The plant produces a good yield with relatively little foliage. Thanks to its upright habit, Cabernet Cortis adapts well to trellises or wire structures.

Ground preparation

• On calcareous soil: improve with lava grit
• On sandy soil: improve with bentonite and lava flour

Planting out
Soak your vine in a bucket of water for 24 hours. This allows it to soak up some water before planting.

Plant between May 1st and 15th. Use a soil auger or spade to dig a planting hole 10 cm in diameter and 30 cm deep. Insert the graft just above the ground, so that the vine protrudes 5 to 10 cm above the ground.

Planting distance

• In line: 1 meter
• Between rows: 1.5 to 1.8 meters