The white grape variety originates from the border region Italy (Gorizia)-Slovenia (Goricia). Synonyms are Mattozza, Pinela, Pinella Bianca, Pinjela, Pinello, Pinola and Vipavka. It was first mentioned in 1324 as a variety used in Udine and listed in 1823 in the "Catalogo delle varietà di viti del Regno Veneto" by Pietro di Maniago. According to DNA analyses carried out in 2020, it originates from a presumably natural cross between an unknown parent variety x Gouais Blanc. However, this is based on only 12 DNA markers (see molecular genetics). The medium ripening vine is susceptible to botrytis and grape rot. It produces finely acidic, straw-yellow white wines that are also suitable for sparkling wine production. In Italy, it is cultivated on 66 hectares in Friuli Venezia Giulia and Veneto, where it is permitted in the Colli Euganei DOC wine (under the name Pinello). In Sloveniaä it is cultivated under the name Pinela (Pinjela) on 62 hectares. In 2016, a total of 128 hectares of vineyards 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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Dr. Christa Hanten
Fachjournalistin, Lektorin und Verkosterin, Wien