The Lacrima grape is a rare and indigenous grape variety hailing from the picturesque region of Marche in Italy. Its name 'Lacrima' translates to ‘tear’ in Italian, mirroring the grape's distinct attribute of exuding droplets of juice as if crying when it is fully ripe. This is a strong indication of its sweet, full-bodied nature.
The grape is primarily used in the creation of Lacrima di Morro d'Alba, a red wine reflecting an array of intense fragrances and flavours. Owing to its inherent characteristics, the output includes bold and aromatic wines with an intricate blend of strong floral notes such as roses and violets, layered with nuances of ripe, dark fruits. The wine also has a detectable spicy undertone, often reminiscent of clove and cinnamon.
In terms of appearance, Lacrima grapes are small to medium in size with a round to slightly oval shape. The skin is thick and dark blue to black in colour, housing juicy, sugary pulp. The vine produces generously, although the grape’s thick skin makes it prone to certain diseases, often warranting meticulous cultivation practices in order to preserve its quality and prevent yield loss.
Due to specific geographical requirements and its delicate nature, Lacrima cultivation is largely limited to the Marche region, specifically around the commune of Morro d’Alba, resulting in its classified status as Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC). This region’s climate, typified by mild winters and hot summers, proves favourable for the grape's growth.
Lacrima has an interesting history with records dating back to the 19th century. It was marked by periods of decline due to grape diseases and wine preference changes, but the late 20th century saw the interest resurface, with efforts made to revive Lacrima cultivation. Today, the Lacrima grape is considered a hidden gem in the world of Italian wines, offering an idiosyncratic wine experience to connoisseurs.
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