The white grape variety originates from Italy. Synonyms are Bianca Cinese, Bianca Gentile di Fonzaso, Bianchetta, Bianchetta Gentile, Bianchetta Semplice, Bianco Vernanzinaj, Pavana Bianca, Pignolo Bianco, Perera Verde, Senese, Uva Cinese, Verdesco, Vernaccia, Vernaccia del Cavalot, Vernaccia di Tezze, Vernaccia di Verona, Vernaccia Trentina, Vernanzina, Vernassina Vernazza, Vernazzina, Vernazzina Bianca and White Vernatsch. It should not be confused with the varieties Albarola (Bianchetta Genovese) or Pavana Bianca due to seemingly indicative synonyms or morphological similarities. According to DNA analyses carried out in 2010, it is a presumably natural cross between Brambana x Durella. The variety was first described in 1679 by Agostinetto di Cimadolmo as Bianchetta Gentile. A detailed description was made in 1937 by the ampelographer Giovanni Dalmasso (1886-1974).
This late-maturing variety is susceptible to powdery mildew and sensitive to frost. It produces simple white wines with a sometimes slightly astringent taste. The variety has been cultivated in Veneto, especially in the provinces of Belluno and Verona, since the 17th century and was common in the Adige Valley under Vernaccio or Vernazza. It is permitted in the DOC/DOCG white wines Conegliano-Valdobbiadene Prosecco, Lugana, Prosecco, Montello e Colli Asolani and Valdadige and is also used for Vermouth used. In 2016, 12 hectares of vines were designated (Kym Anderson).
Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012
Images: M.I.P.A.F - National Vine Certification Service
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