Steppe pearl

} The steppe pearl (Prunus pseudovitis) is a plant species that is commonly used for winemaking. It is native to the steppe regions of Froturn and grows in clusters similar to winegrapes (Vitis vinifera, Vitis amurensis, Vitis labrusca, Vitis rotundifolia, Vitis riparia). However, despite its physical resemblance to winegrape, it is actually a species of Prunus, making it genetically a closer relative to plums (Prunus domestica, Prunus mume), cherry (Prunus avium, Prunus cerasus), peach (Prunus persica), apricot (Prunus armeniaca), and almond (Prunus dulcis).

Winemaking with Steppe Pearls
Steppe Pearls contain more sugar than the regular grapewine, and also have a unique nutty, caramel-like flavor due to the presence of 5-(hydroxymethyl)furfural (HMF) and other furanones. These characteristics make steppe Pearls a popular choice for winemakers looking to create distinct, flavorful wines - in fact, this is precisely what makes Froturnish or High Elven wine so special.

Magical Properties
According to legend, Steppe Pearls are said to possess magical properties, capable of creating warm, green oases surrounded by trees in their natural state. The belief is that this is due to the magical energy that the plant emits. The plant's ability to create magical oases led to its cultivation by ancient High Elves, who have been involved in wine-making since the Nobilization era.

History
Despite the plant's magical properties, widespread usage of Arcane Magic has only been the case for around 7 centuries, whereas High Elves have been cultivating Steppe Pearls for much longer. It is believed that the plant was already a part of the natural landscape of the Kingdom of Froturn before their arrival and that they continued to cultivate it. Steppe Pearls have played an important role in the history of High Elves, with some theories suggesting that the plant may have even influenced the architecture of their cities - it is an indisputable fact, that the first permanent urban settlements were created in close proximity of natural Steppe Pearl gardens, no doubt the sweetness of the fruit also being a factor in making certain locations attractive for Elven settlement. In some legends, it is said that the plant's magical properties allowed it to create beautiful evergreen gardens within walled settlements, providing protection against the harsh and cold steppe environment.

Despite its magical origins, the cultivation of Steppe Pearls is now a widespread practice, with many winemakers utilizing the plant's unique flavor profile to create distinct and flavorful wines.