Malvasia

Malvasia is a family of grape varieties that have been around for centuries, making it one of the oldest cultivated grape varieties in the world. It is believed to have originated in the eastern Mediterranean region and has spread throughout Europe and beyond. Malvasia grapes are known for their distinct characteristics, such as their high sugar content, floral aromas, and crisp acidity. The Malvasia group contains both white and red grape varieties, some are close while some are genetically distinct.

Malvasia is a large family of grape varieties, with more than 200 different varieties, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular Malvasia varieties include Malvasia Bianca, Malvasia Istriana, Malvasia di Candia, Malvasia Nera, and Malvasia Puntinata. Malvasia Bianca is the most widely-grown variety and is known for its floral aroma and fruity flavor. Malvasia Istriana is a light-bodied variety that is often used for sparkling wines, while Malvasia Nera is a dark-skinned variety with a spicy flavor.

Malvasia is grown in many different countries and regions throughout the world, including Italy, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Greece, Serbia, Turkey, and the United States. In Italy, it is grown primarily in the regions of Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Emilia-Romagna, and Lazio. In Spain, it is grown in the regions of Galicia, the Canary Islands, and Extremadura. In Portugal, it is grown in the regions of Alentejo and the Madeira Islands. In Croatia, it is grown in the regions of Istria and Dalmatia. Malvasia grapes are known for their high sugar content, floral aromas, and crisp acidity. For this reason, they are often used to make sweet dessert wines, such as Malvasia delle Lipari and Malvasia di Bosa. They are also used to make dry and semi-dry white wines, such as Malvasia Bianca di Candia and Malvasia Istriana. Malvasia grapes can also be used to make full-bodied red wines, such as Malvasia di Schierano and Malvasia Nera. Malvasia wines pair well with a variety of dishes, including seafood, poultry, and cheese. Malvasia Bianca di Candia pairs well with light dishes, such as grilled fish and salads. Malvasia Istriana pairs well with richer dishes, such as risotto and pasta. Malvasia di Schierano pairs well with grilled meats, stews, and game. Malvasia Nera pairs well with hearty dishes, such as braised beef and lamb. Malvasia delle Lipari and Malvasia di Bosa pair well with desserts and fruity dishes.

Despite the similarity of the names, some grapes carry the title Malvasia do not have relations with the Malvasia family.

Notable examples include Malvasia Fina, which is a grape primarily grown in Portugal, which is also known as Boal; Malvoisie in Switzerland, is in fact a regional name in Valais and Vauf, for Pinot Gris.