Life Style / Wine Grapes / Argaman: Patented (1992) cultivar developed and released around 1988 by the ARO Horticulture Unit, Volcani Center at Bet-Dagan, Israel. Derived from a cross between Souzao and Carignan. Ripens some 1-3 weeks earlier than the latter parent (ie. about mid-August to early September). Resistance to Powdery Mildew also appears superior. Designed to be a hot-climate tolerant variety, it has minimal frost resistance. Vigorous and productive, on Richter 110 and Ruggeri 140R rootstocks, the cultivar is self-fertile, resulting in medium size, moderately compact fruit clusters. Tested as a deeply colored red-wine varietal wine, with a peppery aroma and satisfactory to average acidity and tannins, it produced adequate body and balance. Current usage has been confined to some blends with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Sirah that seem to show ageing possibilities.
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