‘One of the “claret” grapes. Season, mid-season (3rd period). Merit, first class, although not so much perfumed as the Cabernet. Vine growth vigorous, spreading. Leaves medium-sized, longer than broad, when young covered with a characteristic silvery-white down; when full grown three or five-lobed, teeth uneven, sinus rather open and not very deep; upper surface smooth, uneven, of a paler green than Cabernet, underside downy. Fruit bunches small, shouldered. Berries round, small, dark purple, with several small green berries amongst the others; thick skin, large seeds.’ [Despeissis p.263/1903].