The white grape variety originates from Bosnia-Herzegovina. Synonyms are Jilavka, Mostarska, Mostarska Žilavka, White Zilavka, Zhelavka Biella, Žilava Hercegovacka, Zilavka Bianca, Žilavka Bijela, Zilavka Blanche, Žilavka Hercegovacka, Žilavka Mostarska, Žilavka Mostarska Bijela and Zilavka White. Due to morphological similarities, it should not be confused with the Furmint variety. According to DNA analyses carried out in 2021, it originates from a presumably natural cross between Alba Imputotato x unknown father variety.

The late-ripening vine is susceptible to downy mildew and botrytis and sensitive to spring frosts, but resistant to drought. It produces high-alcohol, acidic white wines with flavours of nuts and apricots, which also have ageing potential if matured appropriately.
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