Guardavalle

Grape variety	Guardavalle
Synonyms	Known also as Vardavalli.
Grape colour	White grape
History	Guardavalle grape, a native variety from the region of Calabria, particularly thrives in the province of Reggio Calabria, on the eastern coastal strip. This grape has a rich cultural heritage tied to the local region, playing a key role in the wine history of Calabria. It has been cultivated for centuries and has adapted well to the local climate and soil conditions. Despite the modern influx of more globally recognized grape varieties, efforts have been made to preserve the cultivation of Guardavalle due to its historical and cultural significance.
Ampelographic features	The Guardavalle vine exhibits medium, pentagonal, five-lobed leaves with a flat or slightly wavy edge. The lobes turn near the tips, and the petiole sinus is closed. The upper sinuses are U-shaped with slightly overlapping lobes, while the lower sinuses are closed or slightly overlapped. The grape bunches are medium-sized, conical, winged, and moderately compact, sometimes appearing spatulate. The berries are medium in size, spheroidal in shape, with a medium-thick, broadly amber skin that is unevenly yellow in color.
Characteristics of the wine	Wine produced from the Guardavalle grape has a straw yellow hue, which can vary in intensity. On the palate, it presents an intense, full-bodied flavor profile. This wine is appreciated for its unique character, embodying the richness of the soil and climate where the grape is grown. Its distinct flavor and aroma make it stand out among other Italian white wines.