The white grape variety comes from Italy. Synonyms are Rossese and Rossese Bianco. It must not be confused with Rossese Bianco from Piedmont or other Rossese varieties because of morphological similarities. The parentage (parenthood) is unknown. The name of the medium-ripening vine probably derives from the intense pink berries when fully ripe. It was first mentioned by the naturalist Giuseppe Acerbi (1773-1846) in 1825 as one of the most important varieties in the Ligurian Cinque Terre. It was once widespread along the Ligurian coast, but almost extinct by the end of the 20th century. At the beginning of the 21st century it was reactivated by a producer in Baccano di Arcola (La Spezia). It is now cultivated again in small quantities mainly in the province of Imperia in the west of Liguria. In 2016, however, no stocks were recorded (Kym Anderson).
Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012
Pictures: M.I.P.A.A.F - National Vine Certification Service
For my many years of work as an editor with a wine and culinary focus, I always like to inform myself about special questions at Wine lexicon. Spontaneous reading and following links often leads to exciting discoveries in the wide world of wine.
Dr. Christa Hanten
Fachjournalistin, Lektorin und Verkosterin, Wien