Definition: Hybrid

A grape variety resulting from cross-fertilisation between different species. These crosses between American and European vines were developed for their hardiness. They are still widely used in the eastern United States and Canada. This term refers to grape varieties obtained from two different species of vines, which are now prohibited by French law. It was thanks to hybrids that European vineyards were rebuilt after the devastation caused by phylloxera. Now, non-grafted hybrid grape varieties are increasingly being eliminated, even for the production of everyday wines.