Mavrud is one of the oldest grape varieties in Bulgaria and, with around 1,800 hectares of vineyards, occupies second place among the country's red wines behind Melnik. The name probably comes from the Greek word "mavro", which means "black", a reference to the deep dark color of the wine. Its origins most likely lie in the Plovdiv province in central Bulgaria, where it still has a traditional focus on cultivation today. Since it sprouts late and only matures after a very long period, the Mavrud requires a climate with warm, dry late autumns. The grapes are medium-sized and compact and contain medium-sized berries, the skin of which is reasonably resistant to rot diseases. The Mavrud is susceptible to powdery mildew and downy mildew. In Bulgaria it comes in five different varieties. Mavrud is mainly found in central Bulgaria, especially in the Plovdiv province, but because of its qualities it is also grown in other regions of the country. It reacts well to aging in small oak barrels, and semi-dry, sweet wines or even ice wine can also be produced from it. Well-made Mavrud wines have decent ripening and aging potential. An international variety such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon or the local Rubin variety is often chosen as a blending partner. Occurrences outside Bulgaria are not known.
This grape variety is also known by the name of:
Cachivela, Katevila, Kaushanskii, Kacivela, Karvouniaris, Kausanskii, Kakcivala, Mavrostaphylo, Mavrostaphilo, Mavroud, Mavroude, Mavroudi voulgarias, Kachivela, Mavroudion, Mavroudi boulgarias, Mavrouli, Mavrudi, Mavraki, Tsiganka, Svinarska loza, Svinjarska loza
