Favorite

Characteristics of the Favorita grape

• Budburst: April

• Flowering: June

• Veraison (color change): August

• Ripening: late September / early October

• Harvest: October

History of the Favorita

Favorita is an ancient native white grape variety from Piedmont that is best known in the hills of Roero and the Langhe. The name Favorita refers to the special appreciation that local winemakers have had for this grape throughout the centuries.

The origin of Favorita is often linked to Liguria and possibly even Sardinia. The grape shows strong similarities to Vermentino and Pigato, which leads to the belief that these varieties are genetically closely related. In Piedmont, however, Favorita has developed its own character, partly due to the specific climate and terroir of the region.

Favorita has been cultivated in the Roero since the end of the 18th century. For a long time, the grape was primarily used in blends to add fresh acidity and elegance. In recent years, Favorita has been receiving increasing recognition as a standalone white wine with its own identity.

Terroir and characteristics of the grape

Favorita thrives in the sandy and calcareous soils of the Roero. The grape has medium to large white berries with a greenish skin that can turn golden yellow with optimal sun exposure.

The variety is known for its consistent yield and vigor. To maintain quality, winemakers often apply green harvesting, removing excess bunches to achieve more concentration in the remaining grapes.

Wine style of Favorita

Favorita wines usually have a clear straw-yellow color and a refined aroma with notes of citrus, white fruit, and sometimes floral nuances. On the palate, the wine is fresh, light, and elegant, with a lively acidity and a soft, pleasant finish.

Although Favorita was traditionally seen as a simple thirst-quenching wine, modern producers are showing that the grape can also yield characterful wines with more depth and aging potential.

Food pairing

Due to its fresh and elegant character, Favorita is a versatile wine at the table. The wine is excellent as an aperitif and pairs beautifully with fish dishes, shellfish, light appetizers, typical Piedmontese antipasti, risotto, and fresh cheeses.

Favorita is thus a refined white wine from Piedmont that combines the freshness of the Alps with the Mediterranean elegance of its presumed origin.