The Groppello grape is a special kind of red wine grape variety predominantly found in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, particularly in the Valtènesi and Garda areas. Known to locals as 'Groppello Gentile', it has been cultivated for centuries on the beautiful slopes overlooking Lake Garda.
Groppello not only identifies a single grape, but also a set of varieties belonging to the same family, including Groppello Gentile, Groppello di Mocasina, Groppello di Revo and Groppello di Volperino. The Groppello vine generally thrives in the limestone clays and glacial moraines of the region. It blossoms late and ripens in the last ten days of September, resulting in grapes that are magenta-coloured with a medium-sized, cylindrical bunch.
Groppello wine is noted for its complexity and elegance. It typically possesses a ruby-red hue with evolution towards garnet red if left to age. The wine's aroma often displays notes of fresh fruit such as raspberry, red currant, and cherry, as well as undertones of spices and aromatic herbs. The palate is light with soft tannins that give a pleasantly bitter and persistent finish. It pairs superbly with local Lombard cuisine, particularly dishes like ossobuco and polenta.
Traditionally, it was used in blends, but nowadays we see Lombard producers experimenting with it more often as a pure varietal wine. Beyond its native Italy, Groppello is barely known and scarcely planted. However, it is still part of Italy’s enigmatic viticultural charm, contributing to its fascinating variety of grape types.
In conclusion, Groppello is a true reflection of the terroir of Lombardy. It is a grape variety capable of producing wines of great character, marked by a unique fruit intensity, fresh acidity and a deep attachment to the territory. Its relative anonymity in the global wine market keeps it as a hidden gem for wine lovers desiring to explore lesser-known varieties.
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