Barbarossa
Grape variety | Barbarossa |
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Grape colour | Red grape |
History | The Barbarossa grape, with roots in Italy, carries an intriguing history. The grape name, 'Barbarossa,' is thought to be derived from the term for 'red beard,' a nickname given to Frederick I, a Holy Roman Emperor who spent significant time in Bertinoro, Italy. The grape was a favorite during his reign. Despite its rich history, Barbarossa isn't as widely grown today. However, it still holds a unique place in Italian viticulture, particularly in the Emilia-Romagna region. |
Ampelographic features | The Barbarossa grape exhibits some unique ampelographic characteristics. The leaves are a vibrant green that stay fresh until late summer, after which they start to wilt. In terms of shape, they are pentagonally three or five-lobed. The bunches are medium-sized, compound in structure, and spatula-shaped, with a length of 20-25 cm. The berries are vinous red and medium-sized, varying between ellipsoidal and irregular spheroidal shapes. The peel is thin and prickly, and the juice is colorless with a herbaceous neutral flavor. |
Characteristics of the wine | Wine made from the Barbarossa grape is known for its deep garnet red color with orange hues. Its aroma is robust, evoking the scent of drooping roses and purple bumblebees. The taste is dry, straightforward, and generous, marked by a firm structure and strong character. |
Synonyms | Barbarossa is also known under the local names of 'Berro' and 'Barbaroux'. |