The Fogoneu belongs to the circle of autochthonous grape variety treasures on the holiday island of Mallorca. Like others, the variety comes from a natural crossing of the Mallorcan varieties Excursach and Mansés de Capdell, which no longer play a role in the island's viticulture today. It is also said to have similarities to the French variety Gamay Noir, although this has not been scientifically confirmed. There are also legends surrounding the name, but there is still no rational explanation. The variety's main area on the island is the Felanitx subregion, but it is also found in the Binissalem and Pla y Levant subregions. The Fogoneu is usually not made as a pure variety, but blended with the Mallorcan varieties Callet and Manto Negro. The results can be excellent and compete internationally. The "Bodegas 4 Kilos" has even produced a wine with a considerable amount of Fogoneu, which shows absolute international class and has long since become the island's cult wine. Officially, a few hectares are said to be planted with Fogoneu in Spanish Extremadura, but this has not been confirmed.
This grape variety is also known by the name of:
Fogonet, Fogonetxo, Fogoneu Frances, Fogoneu Mallorqui
