Program of professional scientific research of the new grape variety “Dubrovačka crna”

In the area of ​​Konavle, near the Dubrovnik Airport in Čilipi, an unknown black grape variety was found. Samples of leaves and shoots of unknown variety were delivered to the Faculty of Agriculture in Zagreb and analyzed by the standard procedure used to identify varieties. The analysis showed that the sample in question is not identical to any of the more than 2000 varieties currently in the database. The variety was given the working name ‘Dubrovnik Black’. In order to carry out the procedure of recognizing a new grape variety, more extensive research is needed. Therefore, cooperation was agreed between the Department of Mediterranean Cultures, University of Dubrovnik and the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb . It should be noted that the said Program is co-financed by the Municipality of Župa Dubrovačka, in the area of ​​which the location of the Čibača test site is located. The program began in the spring of 2019 with the planting of vineyards with 102 vines on the site. In the current period of the program, the vineyard has been agro-technically formed (cultivation forms and associated reinforcement) and the first research on the organoleptic characteristics of wine from this variety has been made through two harvest periods. Amelographic description of the variety also began. In the following period, research will continue through activities to complete the ampelographic description and determine fertility factors.