The white grape variety originates from Greece. Synonyms are Asporombola, Asprorobola, Asprorompola, Robbola, Robola Aspri, Robola Aspro, Robola Kerini, Robolla, Rombola, Rombola Aspri, Rompola, Rompola Aspri, Rompola Kerine and Rompola Kerini. According to an unverifiable hypothesis, the vine was brought to the island centuries ago by the Venetians. This is another reason why it was once thought to be dentic to Ribolla Gialla, which is grown in Friuli, Italy. According to DNA analyses carried out in 2008, this is not the case, but there is a close genetic relationship to the two varieties Goustolidi and Theiako Mavro. However, the parentage is unknown. Two color mutations are the red-berry Rombola Kokkini and the black-berry Mavro Rombola.
This early-maturing, high-yielding vine is often grown in bush form (gobelet). It is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis as well as viral diseases. The variety produces white wines that are high in acidity and extract, with aromas of grapefruit and citrus that tend to oxidize. It is mainly cultivated on the Ionian Islands. On Kefallonia, the single varietal OPAP white wine Robola Kefallonia is produced, which is considered one of the best Greek white wines. In 2016, a total of 152 hectares of vines were reported in Greece, with a strong downward trend (Kym Anderson).
Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012
Image: photo archive National Interprofessional Organization of Vine and Wine of Greece
