The white grape variety originates from Italy. Synonyms are Grechetto, Grechetto Bianco, Grechetto Spoletino, Greco, Greco Spoletino, Montanarino Bianco, Montanaro, Occhietto, Pistillo, Pizzinculko, Pocinculo, Pulce, Pulcinculo Bianco and Strozzavolpe. The "Greco" could possibly indicate a Greek origin. Despite seemingly suggestive synonyms or morphological similarities, it should not be confused with the varieties Maceratino or Pignoletto (with synonym Grechetto di Todi). However, according to DNA analyses carried out in 2004, there is a parent-progeny relationship between Grechetto di Orvieto and Pignoletto, which is why they used to be considered two clones of the same variety and were often named only "Grechetto" in DOC determinations, which naturally leads to some confusion and confusion with other Grechetto varieties. There is also the red-berried variety Grechetto Rosso (Greghetto) with unclear parentage.
The medium to late ripening vine is resistant to downy mildew. It produces fruity white wines with diverse aromas of herbs, almonds and citrus fruits. The variety is permitted in numerous DOC wines of the regions of Latium, Marche, Tuscany and Umbria. These are Amelia, Assisi, Colli Altotiberini, Colli del Trasimeno, Colli Etruschi Viterbesi, Colli Martani, Colline Lucchesi, Colli Perugini, Montefalco, Orvieto, Torgiano, Valdichiana Toscana and Vin Santo di Montepulciano. In 2016, 1,824 hectares of vines were reported, with an upward trend (Kym Anderson statistics).
Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012
Image: M.I.P.A.F - National Vine Certification Service
