Colorino
Colorino (IPA: [koloˈriːno]) is a red wine grape variety native to Italy, primarily cultivated in Tuscany. The name derives from the Italian word colore (“colour”), reflecting the grape’s notable ability to impart deep pigmentation to wine[1]. Although historically used as a minor blending component, it remains valued for its colour-enhancing role in traditional Tuscan blends.
Background
Colorino has been grown in Tuscany for centuries, with documented use in local blends dating back to the 19th century[2]. Its importance was particularly evident in the production of Chianti Classico DOCG, where it complemented Sangiovese and other native varieties. While its acreage has declined over the past few decades, it persists in key appellations due to its distinctive enological contribution.
Characteristics
The vine is moderately vigorous, producing small to medium-sized berries with thick, darkly pigmented skins[3]. It is relatively late-ripening and shows good resistance to rot, making it suitable for extended hang times. In wine, Colorino is known for imparting an intense purplish hue, firm tannic structure, and subtle herbal and dark fruit notes. On its own, it can be robust but somewhat austere, which is why it is rarely bottled as a varietal wine.
Use in winemaking
Traditionally, Colorino played a supporting role in Chianti blends, valued for deepening colour and contributing tannin without significantly altering the dominant flavour profile of Sangiovese[4]. Its thick skins were also useful in the governo winemaking technique, where partially dried grapes were added to fermenting wine to enhance structure and stability. In modern times, some producers experiment with varietal Colorino or blends in which it plays a more prominent role, although it remains most common as a minor component in Tuscan DOC and DOCG wines[5].
See also
References
- ↑ D’Agata, Native Wine Grapes of Italy, University of California Press, 2014, ISBN 978-0520272260.
- ↑ Scienza & Imazio, Vitigni d’Italia: Storia e diffusione, Edagricole, 2009, ISBN 978-8850653436. (Italian)
- ↑ Robinson, Harding & Vouillamoz, Wine Grapes, HarperCollins, 2012, ISBN 978-0062206367.
- ↑ Robinson (ed.), The Oxford Companion to Wine, Oxford University Press, 2015, ISBN 978-0198705383.
- ↑ Italian Trade Agency, “Colorino Wine Profile”, italianwinecentral.com.