Albarola is a white grape variety predominantly found in Liguria. Its origin is contested between this region, particularly the Cinque Terre area, and Tuscany, especially around the Colli di Luni DOC. Albarola is very similar to Bianchetta Genovese, so much so that DNA research has confirmed their presumed homogeneity to the point of being considered a single grape variety with two synonyms and different characteristics due to the territory. The similarity is especially noticeable in the color, both of the grapes and the wines, both of which are very light and pale. In the past, Albarola was called Calcatella due to its characteristic small, tight clusters. The clusters of Albarola are medium-small in size and cylindrical in shape, compact and winged. The skins are thin but still tough, very pale white tending towards greenish or yellowish, and covered with abundant bloom.
Albarola has high and consistent yields and is resistant to diseases and sea breezes. It can be grown using various systems including the espalier, and with light to moderately expansive pruning. It suffers from downy mildew, powdery mildew, and rot, which is why it prefers hills with good exposure and ventilation. From an enological point of view, Albarola is very neutral and nondescript. It is included in very famous Ligurian denominations such as Cinque Terre DOC and some Tuscan denominations.
Its wines are clear and pale with greenish nuances, with simple and not very intense aromas, and slightly herbaceous notes. The palate is equally simple, with a medium-light structure and low acidity. It is a simple wine to be consumed young. In blends, however, Albarola provides structure and alcohol content. It is included in all the DOC regulations of Ligurian white wines, such as Colli di Luni, Colline di Levante, and Golfo del Tigullio, where it is generally blended with Vermentino and Bosco, and is also used in the famous Sciacchetrà of Cinque Terre, a renowned passito wine. In Tuscany, it is part of the regulations for Candia dei Colli Apuani, Montescudaio, Bianco Pisano di Torpè, and Colli dell’Etruria Centrale.
