Malvasia Nera

There are several red grape varieties carry the name Malvasia Nera, however, the name Malvasia Nera usually refers to the two varieties grow in the souther Italian region of Puglia, Malvasia Nera di Brindisi and Malvasia Nera di Lecce. Both have dark-skinned berries, but they have subtle differences in aroma, taste, and where they are grown.

Malvasia Nera di Brindisi grapes have dark-coloured skins, with an intense aroma of blackberry and raspberry. It has a medium-bodied taste profile, with notes of blackberry, cherry, and spice. Malvasia Nera di Lecce is less aromatic. It has a fuller body, with notes of blackberry, plum, and spice.

Both varieties are grown in the costal regions of Puglia. Malvasia Nera di Brindisi is grown primarily in the provinces of Brindisi and Taranto. Malvasia Nera di Lecce is grownin the province of Lecce. The Malvasia Nera di Brindisi grape is occasionally used as a table grape. It is rarely vinified on its own, common blending partner for this variety are Negroamaro and Susumaniello. The wine is alcoholic, with a ruby red color, a pleasant aroma, and a flavor that is harmonious, robust, and full-bodied. Malvasia Nera di Lecce is almost always used in blends with Negroamaro, to which it adds the necessary alcohol content, sapidity, and body.The result is a fine, alcoholic, deep ruby red table wine with a pleasant aroma and a harmonious and velvety taste. Both Malvasia Nera di Brindisi and Malvasia Nera di Lecce wines pair well with heavier dishes such as grilled meat, ragu with tomato-based sauces or hard cheese.