The white grape variety originates from Italy; the name means "foxtail" after the grape shape. Synonyms are Alopecis, Cianca Rosa, Coada Vulpi, Coda di Volpe de Maddaloni, Coda di Vulpe, Durante, Falerno, Guarnaccia Bianca and Lisica Opasca Bjelaja. The parentage is unknown. According to one hypothesis, it is the descendant of the ancient grape variety Alopecis described by Pliny the Elder (23-79), whose appearance reminded him of the "tail of a fox". However, this common description applies to many varieties. The synonym Falerno also associates an "ancient relationship", namely with the famous Falerno. It was first mentioned in 1592 by the scholar Giovanni Battista della Porta (1535-1615).
It must not be confused with the varieties Caprettone (Crapettone), Coda di Pecora, Codivarta, Pallagrello Bianco or Trebbiano Toscano, despite seemingly suggestive synonyms or morphological similarities. There is no relation to the variety Pallagrello Nero (with synonym Coda di Volpe Nera). The medium to late ripening vine has berries rich in sugar. It produces golden-coloured, spicy white wines with aromas of stone fruits and a slightly salty, mineral taste. The variety is widespread in Campania, especially in the provinces of Avellino and Benevento, and is permitted in the DOC wines Campi Flegrei, Fiano di Avellino, Greco di Tufo, Irpinia, Sannio, Terre di Cosenza and Vesuvio. In 2016, 577 hectares of vines were reported with a decreasing trend (Kym Anderson statistics).
Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012.
Images: M.I.P.A.F - National Vine Certification Service
