RARE GRAPE VARIETAL RESOURCE

History: Oseleta is a red grape variety native to Valpolicella, in the Veneto region, rediscovered in recent decades after a long period of neglect. Its name likely derives from the local dialect, linked to the term "oselìn" (little bird), perhaps due to the birds' predilection for its small, very sweet grapes. Historically present in the mixed vineyards of Valpolicella and Verona, Oseleta was for centuries a minor variety, rarely used in traditional blends.

Towards the end of the twentieth century the vine was recovered, initially by Masi, selected and registered in the National Register in 2001, becoming one of the most recent rediscoveries of Venetian ampelography and officially admitted into the production rules for Valpolicella and Amarone wines in 2003.

Budding occurs early, but ripening is late, and it is important to ensure a long growing season. Yields are very low, partly due to the small size of the bunches, but the quality of the grapes is high.

Though the vine exhibits reasonable vigor it has an excellent ability to concentrate sugars and coloring elements. As the resistance to pests and other adversities is good; the grapes, small with thick, waxy, and intensely blue-black skin, rich in polyphenols, can be kept on the vine for a long time. Oseleta is generally resistant to botrytis and tolerates drought well, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and requires careful vegetative management to avoid excessive shading.

From an oenological perspective, Oseleta produces musts rich in color, tannin, and structure, with lively acidity and restrained aromas. It is therefore particularly suited to long-aging vinification, to blending  thus giving body to more delicate wines, and to the production of Amarone and Recioto, where it expresses great power and longevity. Vinification on its own requires attention, but can produce wines of extraordinary character. Regrettably its low production and low must yield are likely to limit diffusion.

Sources: (http://catalogoviti.politicheagricole.it/scheda.php?codice=358); (https://www.quattrocalici.it/)

VIVC: https://www.vivc.de/index.php?r=passport%2Fview&id=16537

Parentage: Unknown

Tasting notes: Oseleta wines are recognizable by their impenetrable, purplish or purple color and their very pronounced visual consistency. On the nose, they express themselves with dark and deep aromas: black cherry in alcohol, blackberry, dried plum, along with balsamic notes, leather, licorice, black pepper, and hints of bitter cocoa. As they age, they are enriched with tobacco, earth, rust, and oriental spices.

On the palate, Oseleta produces robust, highly tannic, fresh, and long-lasting wines, with a bold texture and a highly impactful persistence. Despite its structure, it maintains a vein of acidity that balances the body, making it suitable for long aging in wood.  Source: (https://www.quattrocalici.it/);

Food Pairings: It is ideal with braised meats, game, fatty and spicy dishes, mature cheeses, or as a meditation wine. Source: (https://www.quattrocalici.it/);

Production areas: Valpolicella DOC, Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG, Rosso Veronese IGT, Verona IGT

Producers: (https://www.autoctovino.com/grape/oseleta/)

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