passerina

Passerina is a term that refers to more than one thing in biology and winemaking. In ornithology, it is a genus of North American buntings; in Italian viticulture, it denotes a white grape variety used to produce wines in central Italy.

In birds, Passerina belongs to the family Cardinalidae and comprises several species of small seed-eating songbirds. The genus includes species such as the indigo bunting (Passerina cyanea) and the painted bunting (Passerina ciris); the blue grosbeak (Passerina caerulea) is also placed in Passerina. These birds inhabit open woodlands, scrub, and hedgerows, and are noted for their often vivid plumage in some species. They feed on seeds and insects and are generally migratory, with ranges centered in North America and extending into parts of Central America.

In viticulture, Passerina is a white grape variety widely grown in the Marche and Abruzzo regions of central Italy. It is used to produce dry white wines that can be light and crisp or moderately full-bodied, often exhibiting citrus, green apple, and floral notes along with good acidity. The grape is commonly vinified as a varietal and is also used in blends with other white varieties such as Trebbiano. Wines labeled Passerina are typically described as fresh and approachable, with an emphasis on aromatic profiles and drinkability.