Mondeuse or Mondeuse Noire, is an ancient red wine grape variety chiefly associated with the Savoy (Savoie) region of France, but with small amounts also grown in neighbouring Switzerland - where it is known as Gros Rouge - and in sporadically strewn parcels across parts of Oregon and California.
A vigorous, high yielding variety that excels in limestone-rich soils, Mondeuse has experienced something of a revival in recent years, having seen its vine share fall drastically towards the end of the twentieth century. A permitted variety in the AOC wines of Bugey and Vin de Savoie, it is often blended with Pinot Noir and Gamay to improve colour, acidity and ageing potential.
Despite its relative obscurity and high susceptibility to viticultural hazards, the Mondeuse grape has the potential to produce excellent, aromatic wines that are rich in colour with generous tannins and a rustic, Italianate charm.
