Barbarossa
Barbarossa is an aromatic pink grape variety from Provence that also goes by the name of Grec Rose or Barbaroux. Currently endangered, it is a highly productive grape but is susceptible to powdery mildew, downy mildew and grey rot. It thrives in poor soils and warm Mediterranean climates. Barbarossa is one of the grape varieties of the appellations labelled Cassis, Ajaccio and Vin de Corse (regional AOC for Corsica) and can be found in some Côtes de Provence. As well as being consumed as a table grape, it is also used to produce white wines, with a beautiful yellow colour and sometimes amber tones. When made as a red, it has little body, acidity, or aroma. If you visit Provence you're sure to come across it on the pergolas of Provençal farmhouses. For example, Barbarossa is one of the grapes used in the wines of Domaine Comte Abbatucci.
