Grape Variety
Malvasia-Fina
"mahl-vah-SEE-ah FEE-nah"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Malvasia-Fina
Origin
Portugal
History
Malvasia Fina, also known as Boal or Bual in Madeira, is a white grape variety predominantly grown in Portugal. It is one of the key grape varieties used in the production of Madeira wine, particularly in the medium-sweet style known as Bual. The grape is also cultivated in inland northern Portugal, especially in the Douro, Dão, and Beira Interior regions, where it contributes to both table wines and sparkling wines. Malvasia Fina is known for its subtle aromatic profile and moderate complexity.
Appearance
Small to medium-sized, round berries with a greenish-yellow hue when ripe.
Growing Traits
Malvasia Fina is particularly sensitive to oidium (powdery mildew) and moderately prone to rot, mildew, and coulure, leading to variable and inconsistent yields. It thrives in cooler areas and is often harvested early for use in sparkling wine production.
Wine Characteristics
Body
2/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
0/5
Acidity
3/5
Alcohol
3/5
Light to medium-bodied with a balanced structure, offering subtle complexity. Typically dry, though it is also used in sweet, fortified wines like Madeira. Negligible tannins, as it is a white grape variety, resulting in a smooth finish. Medium acidity, providing freshness and balance to the wine. Moderate to high alcohol content, generally around 13.5–15%, contributing to its richness.
Taste Profile
White peach
Floral
Green almond
Basil
Seashell
Malvasia Fina wines are characterized by subtle aromas of white peach and wild flowers, with hints of green almond and basil. On the palate, they offer a delicate minerality reminiscent of seashells, with medium acidity providing freshness. In fortified Madeira wines, it contributes to a medium-sweet profile with rich, nutty flavors.
Food Pairing
Malvasia Fina's light to medium body and balanced acidity make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with grilled fish, shellfish, and light salads. The medium-sweet Madeira styles complement desserts like almond cake and blue cheeses.
Growing Regions
Portugal
DouroDãoBeira InteriorTávora-VarosaLisboa
Portugal
Madeira
Notable Wines & Producers
Bual Madeira
Blandy's
Henriques & Henriques
Dão White Blends
Quinta dos Roques
Casa de Santar
Douro White Blends
Niepoort
Quinta do Crasto
Malvasia-Fina FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Malvasia-Fina?
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Portugal
Is Malvasia-Fina wine full bodied?
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Malvasia-Fina has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Malvasia-Fina is Moderate to Light bodied.
Is Malvasia-Fina wine dry or sweet?
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Malvasia-Fina has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Malvasia-Fina is Dry.
Where is Malvasia-Fina wine from?
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Portugal
Where is Malvasia-Fina grown?
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Malvasia-Fina is grown in Portugal (Douro, Dão, Beira Interior, Távora-Varosa, Lisboa)Portugal (Madeira).
What is Malvasia-Fina like?
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Malvasia Fina wines are characterized by subtle aromas of white peach and wild flowers, with hints of green almond and basil. On the palate, they offer a delicate minerality reminiscent of seashells, with medium acidity providing freshness. In fortified Madeira wines, it contributes to a medium-sweet profile with rich, nutty flavors.
What does Malvasia-Fina pair with?
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Malvasia Fina's light to medium body and balanced acidity make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with grilled fish, shellfish, and light salads. The medium-sweet Madeira styles complement desserts like almond cake and blue cheeses.
What does Malvasia-Fina taste like?
+
Malvasia Fina wines are characterized by subtle aromas of white peach and wild flowers, with hints of green almond and basil. On the palate, they offer a delicate minerality reminiscent of seashells, with medium acidity providing freshness. In fortified Madeira wines, it contributes to a medium-sweet profile with rich, nutty flavors.
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