General information
Pinotin (also known as VB 91-26-19) is an interspecific red variety that was crossed in 1991 by breeder and vineyard owner Valentin Blattner in Soyhières, Switzerland. The selection took place at the Freytag Wine School in Neustadt, in the German Palatinate.

Although it was long believed that Pinotin was a cross between Pinot Noir and unknown resistant partners, it was later revealed that the basis lies in a complex cross: Cabernet Sauvignon × (Silvaner × (Riesling × Vitis vinifera) × (JS 12417 × Chancellor)). This means that Pinotin contains genetic material from, among others, Vitis labrusca, Lincecumii, Rupestris, and Vinifera.

This medium-early maturing variety is particularly resistant to powdery mildew, downy mildew, botrytis, and frost. In 2016, 0.2 hectares were registered in Switzerland, with small plantings in Germany.

Grape
Pinotín forms compact clusters with small to medium-sized, dark blue berries and a firm skin. The loose cluster structure helps prevent mold. The grape ripens earlier than traditional varieties, making it suitable for cooler climates.

Resistance

• Peronospora (downy mildew): ++ to +++
• Oidium (powdery mildew): ++
• Botrytis (gray mold): ++
• Frost resistance: good

Wine
The wine is ruby red in color and has an elegant character. Aromas are reminiscent of black cherries, with a soft, rounded finish. In style, the wine resembles Pinot Noir, but with slightly more color and body. Served slightly chilled, it is also suitable for summer occasions.

Cultivation advice
Pinotin grows moderately vigorously and upright, with minimal shoot breakage. Thanks to its early ripening (late September to early October) and disease resistance, this grape is popular with organic growers and small vineyards. The airy leaf structure ensures adequate ventilation without the need for intensive foliage work.

Preparing the vine
The plant grows well-organized, with few double shoots. Yields are average to high and remain manageable. Even in humid summers, the crop remains healthy, making chemical crop protection rarely necessary.

Ground preparation

• On calcareous soil: improve with lava grit
• On sandy soil: improve with bentonite and lava flour

Planting out
Soak your vine in a bucket of water for 24 hours. This allows it to soak up some water before planting.

Plant between May 1st and 15th. Use a soil auger or spade to dig a planting hole 10 cm in diameter and 30 cm deep. Insert the graft just above the ground, so that the vine protrudes 5 to 10 cm above the ground.

Planting distance

• In line: 1 meter
• Between rows: 1.5 to 1.8 meters