Verdese

The Verdese grape is a rare and ancient white grape variety that has been officially recognized and registered in the National Registry of Grapevine Varieties since 1996. Believed to derive its name from the characteristic greenish hue of its berries, the Verdese vine stands out for its delicate profile and historical roots. This native Italian grape originates from the provinces of Como and Lecco, in the Lombardy region, and plays a quiet yet important role in preserving the viticultural heritage of Northern Italy.

Verdese is primarily associated with the IGT Terre Lariane (Indicazione Geografica Tipica), a designation that encompasses wines produced around Lake Como and the surrounding hills. Although the grape offers potential for distinctive white wines, pure varietal expressions of Verdese are extremely rare. Only a handful of artisanal wineries cultivate and vinify it on its own, making 100% Verdese wines a true niche product for wine lovers and collectors seeking something unique.

More commonly, Verdese is used in blended wines, where it complements other native and international grape varieties cultivated in the same geographic area. Its naturally high acidity and subtle aromatic profile make it a valuable blending partner, often contributing freshness and elegance to the final wine.

Due to its rarity and limited commercial production, Verdese remains a hidden gem within the Italian wine landscape. However, for those interested in indigenous Italian grapes, heritage viticulture, and low-intervention winemaking, discovering a bottle of Verdese, especially in purity, is an experience worth seeking.