Grape Variety
Malvasia-di-Lipari
"mahl-vah-SEE-ah dee LEE-pah-ree"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Malvasia-di-Lipari
Origin
Aeolian Islands, Sicily, Italy
History
Malvasia di Lipari is a white grape variety native to the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago off the northeastern coast of Sicily. Introduced by the Greeks, it has been cultivated for centuries, particularly on the islands of Salina, Lipari, and Vulcano. The grape is primarily used to produce Malvasia delle Lipari, a renowned sweet wine that has experienced a resurgence in popularity due to the dedication of local producers.
Appearance
Medium-sized, round berries with a golden-yellow hue when ripe.
Growing Traits
Malvasia di Lipari is a vigorous vine with good productivity. It is typically harvested in mid to late September. The grape is often dried to concentrate sugars for the production of sweet wines. It thrives in the volcanic soils and Mediterranean climate of the Aeolian Islands.
Wine Characteristics
Body
3/5
Sweetness
4/5
Tannin
0/5
Acidity
3/5
Alcohol
3/5
Medium-bodied with a balanced structure, offering both freshness and aromatic complexity. Typically vinified as a sweet wine, though dry versions are also produced. Negligible tannins, as it is a white grape variety, resulting in a smooth finish. Medium acidity, providing balance and enhancing its aromatic profile. Moderate to high alcohol content, generally around 13-15%, contributing to its richness.
Taste Profile
Honey
Dried apricot
Tamarind
Floral
Hazelnut
Malvasia di Lipari wines are characterized by sweet and delicate scents, with notes of honey, ripe apricot, and tamarind. On the palate, they offer flavors of wildflowers and hazelnut, with a balanced sweetness and a lingering finish.
Food Pairing
Malvasia di Lipari's aromatic profile and sweetness make it an excellent companion for desserts, particularly almond-based pastries and fruit preserves. It also pairs well with blue cheeses and foie gras, where its sweetness balances the savory flavors.
Growing Regions
Italy
Sicily (Aeolian Islands)
Notable Wines & Producers
Malvasia delle Lipari Passito DOC
Caravaglio
Hauner
Malvasia delle Lipari Liquoroso DOC
Tenuta di Castellaro
Barone di Villagrande
Malvasia-di-Lipari FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Malvasia-di-Lipari?
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Aeolian Islands, Sicily, Italy
Is Malvasia-di-Lipari wine full bodied?
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Malvasia-di-Lipari has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Malvasia-di-Lipari is Moderate bodied.
Is Malvasia-di-Lipari wine dry or sweet?
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Malvasia-di-Lipari has a dryness level of 4 out of 5. Which means that Malvasia-di-Lipari is Sweet.
Where is Malvasia-di-Lipari wine from?
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Aeolian Islands, Sicily, Italy
Where is Malvasia-di-Lipari grown?
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Malvasia-di-Lipari is grown in Italy (Sicily (Aeolian Islands)).
What is Malvasia-di-Lipari like?
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Malvasia di Lipari wines are characterized by sweet and delicate scents, with notes of honey, ripe apricot, and tamarind. On the palate, they offer flavors of wildflowers and hazelnut, with a balanced sweetness and a lingering finish.
What does Malvasia-di-Lipari pair with?
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Malvasia di Lipari's aromatic profile and sweetness make it an excellent companion for desserts, particularly almond-based pastries and fruit preserves. It also pairs well with blue cheeses and foie gras, where its sweetness balances the savory flavors.
What does Malvasia-di-Lipari taste like?
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Malvasia di Lipari wines are characterized by sweet and delicate scents, with notes of honey, ripe apricot, and tamarind. On the palate, they offer flavors of wildflowers and hazelnut, with a balanced sweetness and a lingering finish.
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