Gibi

The History of the Gibi Grape Variety

The Gibi grape was once thought to be extinct, known only from rare mentions in historical Spanish texts. Cultivated on the Iberian Peninsula as early as the 17th century, it is believed that Gibi grapes arrived in Spain from North Africa during the country’s Muslim occupation. However, the grape fell out of favour and was not replanted after the phylloxera epidemic in the late 19th century.

Recently, experts rediscovered Gibi grapes growing wild around Madrid, often in century-old vineyards, and now a few grape growers and winemakers are reviving the variety, not only in Spain but internationally.

Wine Regions

In Europe, vineyards are regulated by the appellation system, which specifies the types of grapes permitted for wine production in various regions. Since the current appellation guidelines don’t account for once-forgotten varieties, there is no formal appellation yet for Gibi wines.

The regulatory council of Madrid D.O. is considering the inclusion of Gibi grapes in their official grape catalogue. In the meantime, producers must label Gibi wines under regional designations, as in France, where the wine is classified as Vin de France.

Wine Styles & Tasting Notes

It is still early to define a consistent style for Gibi wines, but the grape shows great promise for producing elegant, still white wines. Gibi is related to aromatic Spanish varieties such as Airén, Viura, Xarel·lo, and Pedro Ximénez and thrives in arid and semi-arid Mediterranean climates, where it ripens fully and accumulates notable sugar.

Gibi wines are gently perfumed, with subtle fruit and floral notes that add character to their light body. These qualities make Gibi wines enjoyable on their own and versatile with food.

Food Pairings

Gibi wines are tart, refined, and delicately flavoured, making them delightful aperitifs. Gibi also pairs wonderfully with fish and seafood, especially when grilled, and complements fresh cheeses, curd cheese, and other mild specialities. Its firm acidity enhances vegetable-based dishes, including salads, appetisers, and side dishes.

As an ideal palate cleanser and pairing for subtly flavoured dishes, Gibi is a versatile choice for the table. Serve it between 4-10°C to appreciate its delicate nuances fully. This centuries-old variety is poised to gain further recognition and appreciation worldwide.