Malvasia

Malvasia, one of Italy’s most widely planted grapes, has its origins in ancient Greece. Malvasia Bianca, a white grape, is the most common variety, though there is red Malvasia as well. White Malvasia grapes make smooth and lightly viscous wines, aromatic and with notes of tropical fruits, that can be dry or sweet. In central Italy, Malvasia Bianca has traditionally been added to both white and red wine blends to boost body and flavor.

The white Malvasia variety is also used in sweet fortified Madeira wines, from Portugal, known as Malmsey. It’s also grown in France, Greece and California.