The Guardavalle grape variety is an indigenous Calabrian grape from the province of Reggio di Calabria, mainly cultivated on the Ionian side of the peninsula, in the wine-growing areas of Locride. There is no certain historical information about the Guardavalle grape; we only know that it has been present in Calabria since the time of the colonies of Magna Graecia. The type of training system generally used for Guardavalle is espalier or the traditional bush vine. Guardavalle gives its best agronomically when cultivated on medium-textured clay-limestone soils well exposed to sunlight. Guardavalle is a grape variety that does not have particular cultivation needs and is resistant to various diseases. Its bunch is medium-sized, conical or cylindrical, winged, from loose to moderately compact. The berry is medium-sized, spherical, with a medium-thick, consistent skin, slightly covered with bloom, ranging from green-yellow to amber in color.

The Guardavalle is typically used in blends with other local grape varieties, although in recent years it has also been vinified as a single varietal with excellent results. In this case, the wine has a straw yellow color, more or less intense, floral, fruity with citrus and toasted nut notes. On the palate, it is savory, warm, fresh, intense, persistent, fine, and full-bodied. Excellent as an aperitif, it pairs well with fish dishes, seafood, and shellfish, or with medium-aged cheeses.