The white grape variety originates from Portugal. Synonyms are Boal Bonifacio, Malvasia Corada, Malvasia Fina and Malvasia Fina de Douro. It should not be confused with the parent variety Malvasia Fina because of the synonym. According to DNA analyses carried out in 2013, it comes from a presumably natural cross between Malvasia Fin a x Rabo de Ovelha. However, this is based on only 20 DNA markers (see Molecular genetics). The variety was a crossing partner in the new varieties Alvarinho Topasio, Malvasia Branca de São Jorge, Sercialinho and Valveirinha. The early to medium ripening, high-yielding vine is sensitive to drought and moderately susceptible to powdery mildew and grape rot. It produces simple, high-alcohol white wines for quick consumption, which are mostly used for blends. The variety is grown in the regions of Alentejo, Lisboa (permitted in the DOC wine Óbidos ) and Ribatejo, as well as in the Douro area. In 2016, 659 hectares of vines were reported, with a strong downward trend (Kym Anderson statistics).
Source: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012
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