The Greco Bianco
Grape
A white grape variety used in Calabria, Italy, especially known for its role in producing the sweet wine Greco di Bianco. It is similar to Greco, offering aromatic profiles with a focus on citrus and stone fruits, but can also produce dry wines with good acidity and a mineral edge.
Greco Bianco
Grape History
Greco Bianco, also known as Greco or Greco di Tufo, is an ancient white wine grape variety that has a long and storied history in Italy. This grape is native to the Campania region in southern Italy, particularly in the provinces of Avellino and Benevento. The name "Greco" is derived from the Greek settlers who introduced this grape variety to the region over 2,000 years ago.
Greco Bianco produces high-quality white wines known for their aromatic intensity, freshness, minerality, and vibrant acidity. The wines made from Greco Bianco tend to exhibit flavors of citrus fruits, stone fruits, white flowers, and a distinct minerality. They are often described as elegant, balanced, and complex, making them a favorite among wine enthusiasts.
One of the most famous wines made from Greco Bianco is Greco di Tufo, a DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) wine from the town of Tufo in the province of Avellino. Greco di Tufo is renowned for its high quality and distinctive character, often described as rich, full-bodied, and complex with a wonderful balance of acidity and minerality.
Greco Bianco is primarily grown in the Campania region of Italy, particularly in the provinces of Avellino and Benevento, where it thrives in the volcanic soils and Mediterranean climate of the area. The vineyards are often located at high altitudes, which helps to preserve the grape's acidity and aromatic intensity.
In recent years, Greco Bianco has gained popularity both in Italy and internationally due to its unique characteristics and excellent quality. As consumers increasingly seek out lesser-known grape varieties and wines with a sense of place, Greco Bianco has emerged as a standout choice for wine enthusiasts looking to explore the diverse and fascinating world of Italian wines.
The future looks bright for Greco Bianco, as more and more winemakers are recognizing the potential of this grape variety to produce exceptional wines with a true sense of terroir. With its ancient roots, distinctive character, and ability to express the unique qualities of the Campania region, Greco Bianco is poised to continue to captivate wine lovers for many years to come.