Regent

Genral: The Regent is the pioneer crop with whose breeding in 1967 the Institute for Vine Breeding Geilweilerhof in Siebeldingen heralded a revival in vine breeding and viticulture. Fungal diseases of powdery mildew and downy mildew increasingly confronted winegrowers with the challenge of harvesting high-quality and reliable crops. The crossing of classic vinifera varieties with so-called interspecific varieties, in whose genetics a natural fungal tolerance is anchored, brought the Piwis to the attention of experts. They can reduce the amount of plant protection needed in viticulture by about 60 to 80%. Regent is a cross between (Silvaner x Müller-Thurgau) and Chambourcin. It is grown in Rheinhessen, the Palatinate and Baden on an area of about 2,000 ha. Smaller populations are also recorded in England, the Benelux countries and Switzerland.
Cluster: Typical are elongated panicles loosely packed with medium, round blue coloured berries.
Resistance:

Peronospora ++

Oidium +

Botrytis ++

Wine: Regent is characterised by deep red and tannin-rich red wines, especially after a longer maceration period, and is a winner when matured in wooden barrels. With varietal aromas of ripe plums, cherry and red pepper, Regent is close to Merlot.
Cultivation: Maturity is reached relatively early, starting in September. The variety shows a medium-strong, upright growth with low stunted shoot formation. The variety is quite robust against winter frost. It is somewhat sensitive to chlorosis on wet and cold or very calcareous soils. The choice of the right rootstock is very important here.