What Is Grappa?

Grappa is a grape-based pomace brandy, made from the residual byproducts of the wine-making process. It is similar to other countries' wine-based spirits such as Spanish orujo and French marc. It is 35%-60% alcohol by volume, therefore it tends to have a strong, sharp taste which may take some time to develop an appreciation for. The flavor will depend on the type - and quality - of the grapes which are used in its production.

As "Grappa" is a protected name in the European Union, to be called such the spirit must be

1. Produced in Italy, in the Italian part of Switzerland, or in San Marino,

2. Made from pomace, and

3. Fermented and distilled from the pomace with no added water.

It is enjoyed by Italians primarily as an after-dinner drink to aid in digestion. It can be served either on its own in a small grappa glass, or mixed in to an espresso for a "corrected coffee" (caffe corretto - my personal favorite way to enjoy grappa!)

Grappa originated from the Italian town of Bassano del Grappa, hence its name. Its rough nature - similar to American grain alcohol - made it for centuries a drink of the poor farmers and workmen who appreciated its potency for getting through cold winter months. It was not until the 1960s that grappa enjoyment began to spread and more care was put into producing finer quality spirits. Generally grappa is a clear, unaged liquid, although today their are producers making an aged-style grappa which can take on an amber or golden hue depending on the aging barrels used. Grappa is often packaged for sale in colorful, unique bottles, and can be found in many wine shops and gift stores throughout Italy.

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