Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of grape: "Malvasia" refers to a family of wine grape varieties, historically significant and grown in several regions.
   • A type of wine: "Malvasia" can also refer to the sweet, fortified wine (historically called Malmsey) made from these grapes.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Grape):

  • The vineyard is planted with several ancient varieties, including Malvasia.
  • Malvasia grapes are known for their aromatic qualities.

• Noun (Wine):

  • We finished the meal with a glass of rich Malvasia.
  • Historically, Malvasia was a prized commodity in Mediterranean trade.

Advanced Usage

• "Malvasia" as a stylistic descriptor: In wine terminology, the name can imply a style, often sweet and aromatic.
  • The winery produces a late-harvest Malvasia with notes of apricot and honey.

Variants and Related Words

• Malmsey (n): A historical English name for a type of sweet wine made from Malvasia grapes.
  • Shakespeare's character, the Duke of Clarence, was famously drowned in a butt of Malmsey.

Synonyms

• Muscat (n): Another family of aromatic grape varieties often used for sweet wines (similar in style but not the same grape).
• Dessert wine (n): A general category for sweet wines, which can include styles made from Malvasia.

Noun

1. used to make malmsey wine