Albana

Grape variety	Albana
Synonyms	Albana as a grape variety is also known by different names such as albana di ravenna, albana di romagna, albana mezzana, albana sfrizzona, and albana vera.
Grape colour	White grape
History	The Albana grape is believed to be one of the oldest wine grape varieties in Italy, tracing its roots back to ancient Roman times. The name 'Albana' is thought to derive from the Latin word 'albus', meaning 'white', which is a reference to the grape's skin color. It gained significant recognition in the 13th century, as noted by agricultural author Pier de' Crescenzi, and was further popularized in 1654 through the writings of Vincenzo Tanara. Its cultivation has largely centered around the Emilia-Romagna region, where it's been a staple for centuries.
Ampelographic features	The Albana vine exhibits a large, five-lobed leaf that is typically pentagonal in shape. The petiole sinus is narrow, often closed with overlapping edges. The leaf's upper surface is a dark green, dull and wrinkled, while the underside is a lighter gray-green, covered with a thin layer of tomentum. The grape itself is medium-sized, spheroidal, with a slightly irregular, circular cross-section and a persistent navel. The skin is a golden yellow, leaning towards amber, with a thin yet firm texture. The pulp is juicy, sweet, and slightly tannic.
Characteristics of the wine	Wine produced from the Albana grape typically exhibits a straw-yellow color, leaning towards golden hues. The aroma is robust and fruity, while the taste balances well between a crisp freshness and velvety softness, often ending on a slightly bitter note. Albana grapes are excellent for late-harvest, producing fine, full-bodied wines with intricate scents and a blend of sweet, fruity notes.