The name Lairén gives rise to speculation that this long-established grape variety from Andalusia is closely related or even identical to the Airen variety from the Spanish highlands of Madrid. However, studies have shown that the two varieties have little in common with each other and therefore there are no family relationships. Lairén was first mentioned in 15123 under the name "Layrenes", so it is probably one of the oldest grape varieties in Spain. The grape variety has large clusters with medium-sized, very thick-skinned berries. This gives it great resistance to rot and fungal diseases. The Lairén also shows little susceptibility to drought stress in the warm Andalusian sun and feels very comfortable on a variety of soils. Only spring frosts can bother him. The variety sprouts early and ripens after a medium to long ripening period. The variety is vigorous and produces good yields and tolerates long-term pruning. Under the name Lairén it occurs in Jerez and Montilla-Moriles, where it is mostly blended with other varieties and produces a dry, neutral white wine. It is also grown in small quantities in Málaga. Because of the constant confusion with Airen, precise statements about the character of the variety are quite difficult. However, the Lairén is also grown near Madrid under the name "Malvar" and plays a not insignificant role in the origin of "Vinos de Madrid DO". There it is not only used to produce dry wines, but also to produce sweet wines or sweet late harvests, which are sometimes aged in barriques. No other occurrences are known.
This grape variety is also known by the name of:
Lairén
