Verdea (grape)

Verdea is a white Italian grape variety that is grown in the Tuscan region of Italy. It is primarily used in the production of Vin Santo, a style of Italian dessert wine.

History

The Verdea grape has a long history in Tuscany, with documented references dating back to the 16th century. It was traditionally used in the production of Vin Santo, a sweet wine often served with dessert or cheese.

Viticulture

Verdea is a late-ripening grape variety, typically harvested in late October. It is known for its high acidity and potential for high sugar levels, making it ideal for the production of sweet wines. The grape is grown primarily in the Tuscan region, particularly in the provinces of Florence and Siena.

Wine Styles

Verdea is most commonly used in the production of Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine. The grapes are traditionally dried on straw mats to concentrate the sugars before fermentation. The resulting wine is typically aged in small oak barrels for several years before release.

In addition to Vin Santo, Verdea is also used in the production of dry white wines. These wines are typically characterized by high acidity and notes of green apple and citrus.

Synonyms

Over the years, Verdea has been known under various synonyms, including Verdello and Verdea di Pisa.

See Also

• List of Italian grape varieties
• Italian wine
• Tuscany
• Vin Santo