The Durif grape variety was found in a vineyard in eastern France in 1860 and then christened after the name of the owner - Francois Durif. It appeared in America as early as 1884, but under the name Petite Sirah. The names were and continue to be used misleadingly. In fact, there are similarities, as DNA comparisons suggest that Durif was created from a natural crossing of Syrah with a grape variety called Pewlourin, the latter of which no longer plays a role today. But it has also been proven that most of the wines bottled in America under the name Petite Siryh or Petite Syrah are actually made from the Durif. From the beginning, the resistance of the Durif variety was highly praised, especially against fungal diseases. However, it is susceptible to sour rot, black rot and sunburn. It also cannot tolerate winter frost, which is why the choice of location plays an important role. While the Durif had almost disappeared in France, the Californians discovered it for themselves. There are around 2,700 hectares under vines here, but mostly labeled under the name Petite Sirah. In France the areas are gradually increasing again. Via California, the Durif has also found its way to Mexico, Chile and even Australia, where several hectares are under vines.
This grape variety is also known by the name of:
Bas Plant, Duriff, Dyurif, Kek Durif, Dure, Duret, Dureza, Pinot de Romans, Pinot de l´Ermitage, Nérin, Petite Sirah, Petite Serine, Petit Duret, Pareux Noir, Plant Durif, Plant Fourchu, Sirane Fourchue, Serine des Mauves, Sirane de Tain, Syrah Forchue
