The name comes from the Greek port Monemvasia, through which many wines.
In Italy there are at least 10 forms of Malvasia. Malvasia Toscana is commonly blended with Trebbiano. Malvasia Puntinata is small-berried and superior. White Malvasia tends to be a deeply coloured, alcoholic with a propensity to oxidise easily. It has a nutty character, sometimes with notes of orange peel and dried fruits.