Falanghina is a white grape variety with deep roots in Campania, particularly in the Campi Flegrei, on Mount Vesuvius and in the Benevento area of the Sannio region. Its origins are not documented with certainty, but its historical presence in the Neapolitan area has been attested for centuries: the first recorded mention dates back to 1804, whilst more detailed descriptions appear in the nineteenth century. The etymology of the name is also traditionally traced back to the ‘falanga’, the stake used to support the vine, although this interpretation is not definitive. A vigorous and productive grape variety, it has medium-to-large, three- or five-lobed leaves with a downy underside; the bunch is generally cylindrical or cylindrical-conical, sometimes winged, whilst the berry is round, with a thick, pruinose skin, ranging in colour from green-yellow to amber-yellow. It is also grown in the Caserta area, along the Amalfi Coast, on Capri and in Irpinia, as well as in some parts of Molise. The wines are characterised by a straw-yellow colour, often with greenish hues, and by delicate aromas of pear, apple, wild flowers and citrus, accompanied by freshness, savouriness and good balance. The richer expressions display structure and positive aromatic development, with ripe, honeyed and mineral notes. In addition to still wines, Falanghina produces interesting results when made into sparkling wines, including those produced using the classic method, and in late-harvest versions.
