World Famous Grapes
Malvasia
Malvasia is predominantly found on volcanic islands (Sicily, Canary, Greece).
About Malvasia
The Malvasia name is used for dry white wines, semi dry white wines, dessert wines, red wines, and fortified wines, using the same grape.
The Malvasia grape is also used in blends, such as in Italian Vin Santo.
On the island of Madeira, the names Malvasia and Malmsey have been used interchangeably for sweet Malvasia wines; however, "Malmsey" is now used exclusively for a sweet Madeira wine made from the Malvasia grape.
Malvasia wines are produced in Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Croatia, Slovenia, Australia and USA.
Malvasia Istriana (Italy)
In Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Dry Malvasia is also known as Malvasia Istriana.
The name comes from the Istria peninsula (parts of Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia).
DOC regions are Collio DOC and Isonzo DOC. In the Colli Piacentini region of Emilia it is also used to make the sparkling wine locally named Champagnino ("little champagne").
Malvasia Secco (Italy)
In Sardinia, Dry Malvasia is best known as Malvasia Secco.
DOC regions are Malvasia di Bosa di Sardegna, Malvasia di Cagliari.
Sweet Malvasia
The Malvasia delle Lipari variety from the volcanic Aeolian Islands of Sicily is a sweet (150 g/l sugar) wine known for its distinctive orange notes.
In Toscana, Malvasia is used to produce Vin Santo.
Sweet Malvasia from Sardinia is known as Malvasia di Bosa and Malvasia di Planargia.
Sweet Malvasia from Lazio is called Malvasia di Grottaferratao.
Red Malvasia
Malvasia Nera is a red wine variety primarily used as a blending grape, because of the color and aromas it can add to a wine (black plum, rich chocolate, and floral aromas). In Puglia it is blended with Negroamaro. In Toscana it can be a blending grape in Chianti.
Malvasia Flavors
Cold climate flavors are Citrus, Yellow Fruit and Floral.
Warm climate flavors are more Tropical.
 Orange Zest |
 Peach |
 Apricot |
 Jasmine |
 Guava |
 Pineapple |
 Herbs |
 Volcanic |
Malvasia Profile
Dry Malvasia tends to have good fruit, good acidity, and mineral notes:
| SUGAR: | Dry 3g/l |
| BODY: | Light |
| FRUIT: | Medium |
| ALCOHOL: | 13-14% ABV |
 |
Serving temperature: 8-10°C (46-50°F) Off-Dry 6-8°C (43-46°F) |
Malvasia Food Pairing
Malvasia is very good Aperitif.
 Salads |
 Vegetables |
 Asparagus |
 Seafood |
 Pasta |
 Fish |
 Chicken |
 Risotto |
Excellent Pairings
Salads. Grilled Vegetables.
Shellfish. Crab. Lobster.
Seafood. Grilled Fish.
Sushi. Sashimi.
Paella. Pasta. Risotto. Rice.
White Meat. Chicken. Fowl.
Cheeses
Fresh Cheese. Goat.
The Ideal Glass for Malvasia
|
The Sauvignon Blanc glass is smaller than a Chardonnay glass. It has a more narrow bowl to concentrate the crisp and citrusy aromas characteristic of zesty and fruity white wines. |
Malvasia Cheese Pairing
Malvasia is known for its crisp and fruity profile. It pairs well with a variety of cheeses.
Opt for cheeses with moderate saltiness and creaminess to balance the wine's acidity. You can also add accompaniments like fresh fruits (grapes, apples, pears), nuts (almonds, walnuts), and a light drizzle of honey to enhance the pairing.
Fresh and Mild Cheeses
Mozzarella: Its delicate flavor pairs well with the wine's lightness.
Ricotta: Especially good if served with a drizzle of honey or fresh fruits.
Goat Cheese (Chèvre): The tanginess complements the subtle fruit notes in Malvasia.
Semi-Soft Cheeses
Fontina: Its nutty, buttery qualities make a good match.
Brie: The creamy texture and mild flavor work beautifully with Malvasia.
Camembert: Similar to Brie but with slightly more earthiness.
Hard Cheeses
Asiago: Lightly aged Asiago adds a complementary tang to the wine.
Manchego: A classic Spanish pairing, especially younger Manchego, which is less intense.
Gruyère: Mildly nutty and sweet, enhancing the wine's subtlety.
Blue Cheeses (for contrast)
Robiola: Its mild creaminess contrasts nicely without overpowering the wine.