Black Grape Alfonso Lavallée

2- Black Grape Alfonso Lavallée) — expanded with reference table

This grape cultivar, Black Grape Alfonso Lavallée, has traditional cultivation in the Mediterranean regions of Spain, France, and Italy. It is a vigorous and highly productive variety that is well-regarded by producers for its robust growth and reliable yields. In sensory evaluations, the grapes are noted for a distinctive and pleasant flavor, characterized by relatively high acidity and comparatively low sugar content. Visually, it stands out as one of the most attractive varieties for fresh grape markets, making it a strong candidate for premium branding under Tropical Trees Nursery.

### Comprehensive profile

#### Origin, adaptation and agronomy

- Origin and traditional cultivation regions: Mediterranean belt of Spain, France, and Italy; adapted to warm-summer climates with dry to moderate rainfall.

- Vigor and growth habit: Very vigorous vines with strong shoot growth; can require careful canopy management to balance yield and fruit quality.

- Soil and rootstock considerations: Performs well across a range of well-drained soils; compatibility with common table-grape rootstocks to manage vigor and phenology.

- Climate suitability: Best suited to warm Mediterranean-like climates. In cooler regions, fruit ripening may be delayed; in extreme heat, shading and irrigation management become important.

#### Viticultural characteristics

- Planting system: Trellised training systems (e.g., Vertical Shoot Positioning or similar) to optimize airflow, sun exposure, and berry quality.

- Canopy management: Pruning strategies and canopy management are important to control vigor, balance fruit load, and ensure even ripening.

- Disease and pest profile: Monitor for common vineyard pests and diseases; implement integrated pest management (IPM) practices with emphasis on preventive cultural measures and targeted treatments as needed.

- Irrigation and nutrition: Drip irrigation is commonly used, with irrigation scheduling aligned to phenological stages and soil moisture status. Nutritional programs should be guided by soil tests and leaf analyses to maintain vine vigor without excessive vegetative growth.

#### Fruit and sensory properties

- Berry characteristics: Berries are visually appealing with uniform color development; size can vary with vigor and crop load but generally maintain marketable uniformity.

- Skin and flesh: Moderate to thick skin depending on clone; flesh typically crisp with a balanced texture that holds up well to handling.

- Flavor profile: Noted for a distinctive, pleasant flavor marked by relatively high acidity and lower sugar content compared with some other table grape cultivars. This makes it attractive for consumers seeking a tasting experience with crisp acidity, especially when served chilled.

- Shelf life and transport: Livability in storage is good when harvested at proper maturity; the balance of acidity and sugar can influence storage time and consumer perception.

#### Production potential and economics

- Yield potential (per hectare): Yields can be substantial under good management, with variability based on clone, rootstock, plant density, and climate. Typical commercial guidance suggests a broad range, with high-yield scenarios achievable in well-managed vineyards.

- Harvest timing: Typically suited to mid- to late-season harvest in warmer climates, with potential for staggered harvest windows to extend market availability.

- Market positioning: Strong candidate for premium fresh-market segments, particularly where consumers value flavor uniqueness and visual appeal. Suitable for branding around tradition, Mediterranean heritage, and premium quality.

### Agronomic management guidelines

- Growing system: Trellised production with attention to airflow and sun exposure to minimize berry diseases and optimize color uniformity.

- Planting density and row spacing: Spacing depends on clone and training system. A common convention for table grapes is:

- Between rows: 2.5–3.5 meters

- Between plants within a row: 0.8–1.2 meters

This configuration balances vigor, fruit quality, and ease of harvest.

- Pruning regime: Regular pruning to sustain production while containing vigor; consider combination of renewal pruning and annual fruiting cutbacks.

- Irrigation strategy: Drip irrigation with stage-specific scheduling; monitor soil moisture and consider deficit irrigation during certain growth stages to modulate vigor without compromising fruit size.

- Fertilization plan: Site-specific nutrient management plan based on soil and leaf analysis; ensure adequate potassium and micronutrients to support berry quality and vine health.

- Sanitation and IPM: Ongoing scouting, preventive practices, and timely interventions to manage powdery mildew, downy mildew, Botrytis, and common pests.

- Harvest and post-harvest handling: Harvest at the stage where flavor and acidity are balanced to meet market specifications; handle gently to preserve berry integrity, color, and firmness.