The red grape variety originates from Italy. Synonyms are Chiavennasca Piccola, Chiavennaschino, Ciuvinasca and Nebiol Matiné. According to DNA analyses carried out in 2004, it is not, as long assumed, a Nebbiolo variety, but an independent variety. It is the result of a presumably natural cross between Nebbiolo and an unknown, probably already extinct variety. The late-ripening vine is susceptible to powdery mildew and botrytis. Compared to Nebbiolo, it produces red wines that are somewhat higher in alcohol, but lower in acidity and less colourful. The variety was once very widespread, but is now mainly found in Valtellina in the province of Sondrio in Lombardy. However, the stocks are not recorded separately; no stock was recorded in 2016 (Kym Anderson).
Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012
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