Bosco (grape)

Bosco (grape) is a white Italian wine grape variety that is grown primarily in the Liguria region of northwest Italy. The grape is most noted for its role in the Denominazione di origine controllata (DOC) wines of Cinque Terre, where it is used primarily as a blending component.

History

The Bosco grape has a long history in the Liguria region and is believed to be indigenous to the area. The grape's name is derived from the Italian word for 'forest', which could be a reference to the heavily wooded nature of the hillsides where the grape is often found.

Viticulture

Bosco is a late ripening grape variety that is often one of the last grape varieties to be harvested in a vintage. The vine is very vigorous and can produce high yields if not kept in check by winter pruning and green harvesting during the growing season.

Wine regions

Today, Bosco is found almost exclusively in Liguria where it is a permitted variety in several DOCs including Cinque Terre, Colli di Luni and Golfo del Tigullio. In Cinque Terre, the grape is often blended with Vermentino and Albarola.

Styles

Bosco wines tend to be full-bodied with moderate acidity levels. The wines often have floral and tree fruit notes with some mineral characteristics.

Synonyms

Over the years, Bosco has been known under various synonyms including: Bosca, Boscasso, Boso, and Uva del Bosco.

See also

• List of Italian grape varieties
• Italian wine