wijnras

Wijnras, in Dutch, are the cultivated grape varieties used to make wine. Most wine grapes belong to the species Vitis vinifera. A ras comprises plants selected for a stable set of traits, such as acidity, sugar accumulation, tannin content, and aromas, which shape the style of the wine. Rassen are propagated asexually, typically by cuttings, producing clones that maintain their characteristics.

The expression of a wijnras depends on vineyard site and climate, a concept central to terroir. Varieties vary in vigor, disease resistance, and preferred harvest times. In many regions, vines are grafted on American rootstocks to resist phylloxera.

Common white wijnrassen include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Pinot Grigio. Red varieties include Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Gamay. Many rassen have synonyms in different languages and regions; e.g., Pinot Noir is also known as Blauburgunder or Spätburgunder.

Wijnrassen are central to wine labeling (varietal wines) and to regional appellations, which may specify acceptable grapes. Winemakers can blend rassen to achieve balance or to reflect regional style. Genetic and clonal diversity means that wine produced from the same ras can differ depending on location and viticulture.

In summary, wijnras are the cultivated grape varieties used to produce wine, with distinct agronomic and sensory traits, propagated through cuttings, and shaped by climate, soil, and winemaking choices.