Graciano is a red grape variety grown in Spain. On Sardinia it is known as Bovale Sardo.
Graciano is best known for its role as a blending component in Rioja. Not only does it contribute plenty of acidity and tannin, it is also admired for its seductive aromas of black fruit. As such, there are a growing number of wines made exclusively with Graciano. In the vineyard there some advantageous characteristics to this late ripening variety too, notably its resistance to drought. Unfortunately it tends to be susceptible to fungal diseases as well as producing quite low yields. Nevertheless it is a useful grape and in Spain, it represents around 2% of black grape plantings.
