13 Facts About Malvasia

Malvasia wines are produced in Greece, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Corsica, the Iberian Peninsula, the Canary Islands, the island of Madeira, California, Arizona, New Mexico, Australia and Brazil.

The name "Malvasia" comes from the Italian name for Monemvasia, a medieval and early Renaissance Byzantine fortress on the coast of Laconia; the town's port acted as a trading center for wine produced in the eastern Peloponnese and perhaps in some of the Cyclades.

In western Europe, a common variety of Malvasia is known as Malvasia Bianca di Candia, from its reputed origin in that area.

One notable exception is the variety known as Malvasia di Candia which is a distinctly different sub-variety of Malvasia.

Malvasia bianca is grown widely throughout the world in places like Italy, the San Joaquin Valley of California, the Greek Islands of Paros and Syros.

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Malvasia Istriana is found in the Colli Piacentini region of Emilia, where it is used to make sparkling wine known locally as champagnino or "little Champagne".

Malvasia Candida has been historically grown on the island of Madeira being used to produce the sweetest style of Madeira wine known Malmsey.

In Portugal, Malvasia Rei is grown in the Douro, Beiras and Lisboa region.

Name Malvasia Fina is for a Portuguese variety, that goes under the synonyms Gual and Torrontes in Spain.

Various varieties of Malvasia are known under a wide range of synonyms including Malvasier in Germany, Malvazija and Malvazia in Istria.

Malvasia tends to prefer dry climates with vineyards planted on sloping terrain of well-drained soils.

The red varieties of Malvasia tend to make wines with pale, pinkish to light red color.

Red Malvasia wines are characterized by a richness and chocolate notes.