Isabella

TheIsabella is a black grape variety known for its versatility and adaptability, native to the United States. This variety is particularly prized for its ability to resist diseases and pests, which makes it a popular choice among growers. It has also spread to other regions, where it has found a favourable environment for cultivation.

Characteristics of the Isabella Grape Variety

Agronomic Aspects

  • Origin: The United States, having spread to various wine areas around the world.
  • Climate: It adapts well to temperate and warm climates, showing good resistance to climatic variations.
  • Soil: It prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter, which favour its growth and the quality of the grapes.

Grape Characteristics

  • Berry: Thick skin, blue-blackish in colour, with a distinctive aromatic profile.
  • Aromatic profile: Marked by fruity and floral notes, with a light spicy element.

Wines Made from Isabella

Colour

  • Rosés: A bright rosé colour, with highlights ranging from pale pink to coral.
  • Reds: Deep red, with purple shades in young wines.

Aromas

  • Fruity: Notes of strawberry, cherry and redcurrant, with a hint of tropical fruit.
  • Floral: Shades of wild flowers and rose petals.
  • Spicy: Light hints of pepper and sweet spice, which enrich the aromatic profile.

Palate

  • Fresh and fruity: Young wines with lively acidity and a pleasantly fruity finish.
  • Structured: More complex wines, with good persistence and a balance between sweetness and acidity.

Growing Areas

TheIsabella is grown in several regions, where it expresses itself in unique ways depending on the terroir:
  • United States: Its places of origin, where it found its ideal habitat.
  • Italy: Some Italian regions have started to grow this variety, appreciating its characteristics.
  • Latin America: In some areas, Isabella is used to make local, traditional wines.

Types of Isabella-Based Wines

  • Young Isabella: Fresh and fruity, ideal for drinking straight away.
  • Wood-Aged Isabella: More complex wines, with notes of wood and spice.

Food Pairings

Young Isabella

  • Starters: Bruschetta, cured meats and fresh cheeses.
  • Light Dishes: Salads and fish dishes.

Wood-Aged Isabella

  • White Meat: Roast chicken and turkey.
  • Aged Cheeses: Pecorino and hard cheeses.

Why Choose an Isabella?

TheIsabella is a grape variety that offers wines fresh and aromatic, perfect for any occasion. Its versatility and unique profile make it an interesting choice for anyone looking for wines of character and originality.

Isabella: My personal podium

All those I have tried