The white grape variety originates from Sicily(Italy). Synonyms are Amsonica, Ansolia, Ansolica, Ansoliku, Ansonica (second main name), Ansonica Bianca, Ansora, Ansoria, Ansorica, Anzonaka, Anzonica, Anzulu, Arba Solika. Erba Insolika, Insolia, Inselida, Insolia di Palermo, Insora, Nzolia, Uva del Giglio and Zolia Bianca.
According to DNA analyses carried out in 2021, it is a presumably natural cross between Mantonico Bianco x unknown partner. The red variety Inzolia Nera is not a colour mutation (or vice versa). The variety was first mentioned in 1696 by the Italian botanist Francesco Cupani (1657-1710). According to genetic and ampelographic comparisons with other Sicilian varieties, its roots probably lie in Sicily, from where it spread. This makes the hypotheses of a French, Greek or Spanish origin unlikely or refuted. The hypothesis that it or an ancestor could be identical to the ancient Irziola variety mentioned by Pliny the Elder (23-79) also lacks genetic or historical evidence.
The glossary is a monumental achievement and one of the most important contributions to wine knowledge. Of all the encyclopaedias I use on the subject of wine, it is by far the most important. That was the case ten years ago and it hasn't changed since.
Andreas Essl
Autor, Modena