RARE GRAPE VARIETAL RESOURCE

History: Nosiola is a golden-skinned grape variety found in northeastern Italy, mainly in the vineyards of Trentino. The versatile variety is used to make light, dry white wines, and rich, botrytis-affected Vino Santo wines, which are considered some of the best and most distinctive sweet wines in Italy. Flavor profiles range from citrusy to tropical depending on vinification, but Nosiola takes its name from its most distinctive flavor: nocciola being the Italian for hazelnut.

A grape variety of unknown origins, it has been present in Trentino history since the time of the Council of Trent and is considered today the primary indigenous white variety of Trentino.

Nosiola is found mostly in the hills surrounding Trento, where the terroir gives the most flavorful expression of the grape. On the exposed, ventilated hillsides there is little risk of rot or mildew, and the variety's naturally high yields can be curbed somewhat. Grown in large quantities on flatter vineyards, Nosiola grapes have a tendency toward blandness.

Loose bunches and a susceptibility to noble rot has given rise to Nosiola's most important style: Vino Santo, which falls under the Trentino DOC. These wines are made from botrytis-affected grapes that have then been air-dried prior to vinification, which increases sugar concentration and results in a nutty, creamy sweet wine.

Nosiola, a white wine that amazes for its immediacy and versatility, has been increasingly used to make dry wines as well, following on from international trends. These range considerably in terms of quality: at worst they are neutral and unexciting, but at best they are soft, nutty and display floral aromas with some citrus overtones.

Its preferred growing area is the Valle dei Laghi, although Nosiola is also found in the Lavis district, Vallagarina, and the Sarca Valley. It is also found, sporadically, in the Garda areas of Lombardy and Veneto. It is grown as a single varietal in the Trentino Nosiola and Trentino Vino Santo DOCs (Slow Food Presidium); it is also included in the Garda Orientale, Valdadige, and Sorni DOCs. The grape has been registered in the National Register of Vine Varieties since 1970.

 Sources: (https://www.wine-searcher.com/grape);  (https://www.slowfood.it/slowine/nosiola-tanto-poco-coltivata-quanto-infinitamente-buona-le-migliori-etichette-in-commercio/) & (https://www.quattrocalici.it )

VIVC: http://www.vivc.de/index.php?r=passport%2Fview&id=8606

Parentage: Unknown

Tasting notes: In traditional vinification, it expresses fresh, fruity aromas, both intense and delicate, with notes of green apple and hazelnut. Generally supported by a good acidity, it has a straightforward and fragrant flavor with a savory finish.

The Vino Santo version, made from dried grapes, is striking for its opulence and richness, well-balanced by lively acidity.

Food pairings: Its vibrant minerality and bright acidity make it incredibly versatile paired with:

• Lake Fish: Breaded perch, steamed trout, or grilled sea bass
• Shellfish: Spaghetti with clams or steamed mussels
• Light Pastas & Vegetables
• Cured Meats: Un-smoked cured meats like prosciutto or speck
• Cheeses: Medium-aged cheeses
• Aperitif: Wonderful on its own

Production areas: It is grown as a single varietal in the Trentino Nosiola and Trentino Vino Santo DOCs. It is also included in the Garda Orientale, Valdadige, and Sorni DOCs.

Producers: https://www.autoctovino.com/grape/nosiola/

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