The Colorino grape is a black grape variety that originates from the picturesque vineyards of Tuscany in Italy. Renowned for its deep colouring, the grape plays a significant role in enriching the colour and enhancing the flavours of regional Italian wines such as Chianti and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
The name, Colorino, accurately depicts the nature of the grape; it translates to 'colour maker' in Italian, referencing the extra depth of colour this grape variety brings to a blend. It is particularly treasured for its tough skin, which contains a high concentration of anthocyanins - a pigment that imparts the intense hue for which Tuscan wines are notorious.
The colorino grape is rarely used to produce varietal wine but is instead cultivated primarily to blend with other grapes. It complements Sangiovese grapes beautifully, supplying an explosion of colour and depth to the typically lighter Sangiovese wines. Furthermore, the grape is known for its mildly aromatic quality, which imbues the wine with a subtle yet distinguished bouquet of flavours.
The fruits are harvested in the Autumn, usually in September, which allows winemakers to make full use of Tuscany's favourable sunny climate to ensure the grape comes into its expressive best. While the vine of the Colorino grape has a naturally vigorous growth habit, winegrowers typically limit production to maintain the concentration of flavours and the desirable levels of acidity in the wine.
Enjoying a glass of Colorino-enhanced red wine is often described as an unforgettable sensual experience. The dark ruby hue, the rich, robust flavours with the hint of wild berries and herbs, and the unmistakable fragrance make it a favourite among wine connoisseurs. The unwavering popularity of this grape is proof that, while Colorino may play a supporting role in Italian viticulture, it is absolutely indispensable to the production of Italy’s unforgettable wines.
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