what are some hybrid vitis vinifera grapes merlot
1 Vitis vinifera, the so-called European or wine grape, indigenous in the Eurasian area. 2  Classed within this species are the best-known table and wine grape varieties such as Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot noir, Merlot and Gamay. 3  Vitis aestivalis, native to eastern North America.nly since the 1970s and 1980s have vinifera varieties begun to displace hybrid grapes in this area. Even in those areas where vitis vinifera now predominates, hybrid varieties still have cult following with some wine consumers.