Bellone

Grape variety	Bellone
Synonyms	Known as uva pane, cacchione, and uva pantastico among locals.
Grape colour	White grape
Ampelographic features	The Bellone grape displays a large, pentagonal, and five-lobed leaf structure. The petiole sinus is closed or semi-closed, deep, and often overlapping at the edges. Its berries are medium-sized, sub-round, with a thick skin that is typically yellow, often bearing brown spots. The bunches are cylindrical-conical, semi-tight, and sometimes bear a wing. The peduncle is semi-woody and of medium length. The grape's pulp is almost soft and has a simple flavor.
Characteristics of the wine	Wines produced from the Bellone grape are noted for their strong structure and aromatic qualities. They exhibit a straw yellow color, often with golden undertones. The aroma is fresh and fruity, with notes of ripe grapefruit and peach, often accompanied by hints of honey and almonds. The taste is full-bodied with a high alcoholic strength and a distinctive bitter finish. This unique combination of characteristics has led to an increase in the popularity of wines produced from the Bellone grape.
History	Bellone, a grape native to the Lazio region of Italy, has a rich history dating back to ancient Rome. This grape variety was highly valued by the Romans who referred to it as 'the grape of the bees' due to its high sugar content. The production of Bellone was almost lost in the 20th century due to disease and war. However, thanks to rigorous conservation efforts, it has made a remarkable comeback and is now a key component in several Italian wines.