The white grape variety comes from Bosnia-Herzegovina. Synonyms are Jilavka, Mostarska, Mostarska Žilavka, White Zilavka, Zhelavka Biella, Žilava Hercegovacka, Zilavka Bianca, Žilavka Bijela, Zilavka Blanche, Žilavka Hercegovacka, Žilavka Mostarska Bijela and Zilavka White. It must not be confused with the Furmint variety due to morphological similarities. According to DNA analyses last carried out in 2018, it originates from a presumably natural cross between Alba Imputotato x unknown partner. The late ripening vine is susceptible to downy mildew, botrytis and spring frosts, but resistant to drought. It produces alcohol-rich, acidic white wines with aromas of nuts and apricots and ageing potential. Žilavka is by far the most common variety in Bosnia-Herzegovina, where it is grown mainly in the Mostar region in the south of the country. There are also stands in Croatia, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia (185 ha) and Serbia. In 2016, however, only in Northern Macedonia a stand was recorded (statistics Kym Anderson).
Source: Kym Anderson: Wine Grapes / J. Robinson, J. Harding, J. Vouillamoz / Penguin Books Ltd. 2012
Pictures: Ursula Brühl, Doris Schneider, Julius Kühn Institute (JKI)
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