Grape Variety
Verdeca
"ver-DEH-kah"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Verdeca
Origin
Italy
History
Verdeca is a white Italian wine grape variety primarily grown in Apulia (Puglia) in southern Italy, where ampelographers believe the grape may have originated. Historically, it was used in the production of vermouth due to its neutral flavor profile. In Apulia, it is one of the main grapes in the Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) wines of Locorotondo and Martina Franca, often blended with Bianco d'Alessano. In Campania, it is grown on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, where it is used as a blending variety with Falanghina, Coda di Volpe, and Greco in both the white wines and the sweet dessert wine of the region, Lacryma Christi.
Appearance
Medium-sized, greenish-yellow berries forming compact clusters.
Growing Traits
Verdeca is a late-ripening variety that thrives in the warm, Mediterranean climate of southern Italy. The grape is known for maintaining good acidity even in hot conditions, making it suitable for the production of fresh and crisp white wines. It is adaptable to various soil types and exhibits good vigor and productivity. The vine is resistant to drought but can be susceptible to certain vine diseases if not properly managed.
Wine Characteristics
Body
2/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
0/5
Acidity
4/5
Alcohol
3/5
Light to medium-bodied with a crisp and refreshing profile, offering a clean and zesty palate. Typically vinified dry, highlighting its natural acidity and subtle fruit flavors. As a white grape variety, Verdeca wines have negligible tannin content, resulting in a smooth and approachable mouthfeel. Medium to high acidity, providing freshness and vibrancy to the wine, making it particularly suitable for warm climates. Moderate alcohol content, generally ranging from 11% to 13%, depending on the winemaking style and region.
Taste Profile
Green apple
Citrus
Herbal
Mineral
Verdeca wines are characterized by their fresh and zesty profile, with prominent notes of green apple and citrus fruits. Subtle herbal nuances and mineral undertones add complexity to the palate. The wines are typically light to medium-bodied, with medium to high acidity, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. These characteristics make Verdeca wines particularly enjoyable in their youth.
Food Pairing
Verdeca's crisp acidity and subtle fruit flavors make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with seafood, particularly clams with lemon, calamari, and baked pastries stuffed with ground meat and onion (börek). The wine's freshness also complements light salads, grilled vegetables, and soft cheeses. Its clean profile makes it an excellent choice for aperitifs and light appetizers.
Growing Regions
Italy
Apulia (Puglia)Campania
Notable Wines & Producers
Locorotondo DOC
Cantine Cardone
I Pàstini
Martina Franca DOC
Cantina Sociale di Locorotondo
Produttori di Manduria
Gravina DOC
Botromagno
Verdeca FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Verdeca?
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Italy
Is Verdeca wine full bodied?
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Verdeca has a body level of 2 out of 5. Which means that Verdeca is Moderate to Light bodied.
Is Verdeca wine dry or sweet?
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Verdeca has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Verdeca is Dry.
Where is Verdeca wine from?
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Italy
Where is Verdeca grown?
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Verdeca is grown in Italy (Apulia (Puglia), Campania).
What is Verdeca like?
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Verdeca wines are characterized by their fresh and zesty profile, with prominent notes of green apple and citrus fruits. Subtle herbal nuances and mineral undertones add complexity to the palate. The wines are typically light to medium-bodied, with medium to high acidity, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. These characteristics make Verdeca wines particularly enjoyable in their youth.
What does Verdeca pair with?
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Verdeca's crisp acidity and subtle fruit flavors make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with seafood, particularly clams with lemon, calamari, and baked pastries stuffed with ground meat and onion (börek). The wine's freshness also complements light salads, grilled vegetables, and soft cheeses. Its clean profile makes it an excellent choice for aperitifs and light appetizers.
What does Verdeca taste like?
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Verdeca wines are characterized by their fresh and zesty profile, with prominent notes of green apple and citrus fruits. Subtle herbal nuances and mineral undertones add complexity to the palate. The wines are typically light to medium-bodied, with medium to high acidity, leading to a clean and refreshing finish. These characteristics make Verdeca wines particularly enjoyable in their youth.
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