Barbarossa (grape)

Barbarossa is a red Italian wine grape variety primarily grown in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy, specifically around the town of San Giovanni in Persiceto near Bologna. It is known for producing wines with a light ruby color, delicate aromas, and a slightly bitter or herbaceous finish.

The name "Barbarossa" translates to "Redbeard" in Italian, a reference potentially connected to the reddish color of the grape bunches or perhaps to the legendary Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I, nicknamed Barbarossa. However, the exact origin of the name remains uncertain.

Barbarossa grapes are typically used to produce still red wines, often light-bodied and fruity, intended for early consumption. They are sometimes blended with other grape varieties to add color and structure. While not widely planted, Barbarossa is a local specialty of Emilia-Romagna and can be found in wines labeled as Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT).