Favorita

Favorita is a white grape from the Roero and the Langhe, with a Ligurian past. It gives fresh, light wines with notes of pear, citrus and a salty touch. A lesser-known but very pleasant white wine from Piedmont.

Favorita at a glance

• Colour: white grape
• Origin: probably Liguria, grown in the Roero for centuries
• Budburst: April
• Flowering: June
• Veraison: August
• Harvest: late September to October
• Pruning: Guyot
• Main wine: Langhe Favorita DOC

Name and history

Favorita means "favourite". With its large, handsome bunches, the grape was also popular as a table grape. It probably came to Piedmont from Liguria along the old trade routes. DNA research shows that Favorita is very closely related to the Ligurian Vermentino and Pigato. Some researchers even consider them one and the same grape.

In the Roero, Favorita used to be added to Nebbiolo to soften the wine. When Arneis and Chardonnay became popular, plantings declined. Today a few producers are once again making a characterful wine of its own from it.

In the vineyard

Favorita likes the sandy and calcareous soils of the Roero. It is a strong, productive grape with large berries. To gain concentration, good growers remove part of the bunches in summer. Favorita ripens fairly late and keeps its acidity well.

Taste and style

Favorita is pale yellow and smells of pear, green apple, citrus and white flowers. On the palate it is fresh and light, with lively acidity, sometimes a salty, mineral touch and a slightly bitter finish. Most Favorita is drunk young.

Food with Favorita

Favorita is a lovely aperitif and goes with fish, shellfish, light antipasti, vegetable risotto and fresh cheeses.

Favorita at Barolo & Co

We currently have no Favorita in our range. Take a look at our white wines from Piedmont, or discover the other grape varieties.