What Is Colorino Grape?
Colorino is a deeply pigmented red grape native to Tuscany, best known for its role in adding color and structure to traditional Chianti blends. While once overshadowed by Sangiovese, Colorino is enjoying a quiet renaissance among producers seeking heritage varieties with bold character and expressive potential.
Table of Contents
Origins & History
The name Colorino comes from the Italian word colore, meaning “color”—a nod to the grape’s intense pigmentation. First documented in the 17th century, Colorino was traditionally planted alongside Sangiovese and Canaiolo in central Italy. Farmers prized it not for its flavor but for its ability to deepen the hue of pale red wines.
In the 20th century, it fell out of favor with the rise of international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. But today, Colorino is making a comeback—especially among winemakers focused on reviving indigenous grapes and crafting authentic Tuscan expressions.
Where It’s Grown: Geography & Terroir
Colorino is almost exclusively grown in Tuscany, with key plantings in:
- Chianti Classico
- Carmignano
- Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
- Montalcino (in small amounts)
The grape thrives in Tuscany’s sun-drenched hills, particularly in well-drained, clay-limestone soils. Its thick skins and natural resistance to disease make it suitable for warm climates, while its adaptability allows it to grow across altitudes ranging from 150 to 400 meters.
Though rare outside Italy, experimental plantings exist in small pockets of California and Australia—mainly in blends inspired by the Super Tuscan model.
Flavor Profile & Characteristics
Colorino wines are inky and intense, with firm tannins and a structured backbone. On its own or in blends, it contributes:
- Color: Deep ruby to purple hues
- Aromas: Black cherry, plum skin, wild herbs, pencil shavings
- Palate: Earthy, savory, with bitter cherry, dried fig, and a touch of spice
- Structure: Medium to full-bodied, grippy tannins, moderate acidity
When vinified with care, Colorino can surprise with its depth and aging potential. It’s rarely a fruit bomb—instead, it leans toward rustic elegance.
Winemaking Styles & Uses
Historically, Colorino was used in small percentages in Chianti to boost color and tannin—a technique known as governo alla Toscana, where dried grapes were added to fermenting must for extra intensity.
Today, you’ll find Colorino:
- Blended with Sangiovese (especially in Chianti Classico and Carmignano DOCG)
- As a varietal wine (in IGT or Toscana Rosso bottlings)
- Aged in neutral oak or large Slavonian barrels, to retain authenticity
Modern winemakers who champion native varietals are now experimenting with skin contact, native yeasts, and minimal intervention approaches to let Colorino shine solo.
Key Facts at a Glance on Colorino Grape
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Color | Red |
| Regions | Tuscany (Chianti Classico, Carmignano, Montepulciano) |
| Style | Mostly blending; rare varietal bottlings |
| Synonyms | Abrostine, Tintiglia, Colorino di Valdarno |
| DOC/DOCG Presence | Chianti DOCG, Carmignano DOCG |
| Notable Producers | Fattoria di Petroio, Capezzana, Fèlsina (in blends) |
Serving & Food Pairings
Serve at: 16–18°C (60–65°F), ideally decanted for 30 minutes.
Pair with:
- Peposo (Tuscan peppery beef stew)
- Aged Pecorino Toscano
- Grilled lamb with rosemary
- Wild mushroom risotto
- Lentils with sausage (lenticchie e salsiccia)
🧀 Its rustic depth makes it ideal for autumn and winter fare.
Cultural Notes & Curiosities
Colorino reflects Tuscany’s winemaking DNA—practical, rooted in tradition, and focused on balance over flash. It’s part of a larger movement in Italy to rescue indigenous varieties from extinction and spotlight them in a global wine world saturated with Cabernet and Pinot Noir.
Fun fact: Colorino was once considered for “Super Tuscan” blends but was passed over in favor of Bordeaux grapes due to its assertive tannin and lower fruit expression. Now, some rebellious winemakers are flipping that script.
Where to Buy & Pricing
You’ll find Colorino primarily in Italy-focused wine shops or online retailers specializing in boutique Italian selections. Pricing ranges:
- Blends: $20–40 (Chianti Classico with Colorino)
- Varietal IGT bottlings: $25–60
- Aging-worthy labels: $60+
📦 Try searching for:
- “Colorino wine”
- “Colorino di Toscana”
- “Italian indigenous varietal wines”
FAQs About Colorino
Is Colorino the same as Canaiolo?
No. While both are traditional blending grapes in Tuscany, they are distinct varieties with different flavor profiles and viticultural traits.
Is Colorino ever made as a varietal wine?
Yes, though rare. A few producers now bottle 100% Colorino under IGT labels to showcase its unique character.
Does Colorino age well?
In blends, it adds aging potential. As a varietal, top examples can cellar for 5–10 years.
Is Colorino high in alcohol?
Typically moderate, ranging from 12.5% –14.5%, depending on ripeness and winemaking style.
Fun Fact
🍷 In medieval times, Colorino was used not just for wine, but as a natural dye for fabrics due to its incredibly vivid pigment.
Related Links
Chianti Classico DOCG Overview
Have fun to learn more about Italian Wines and Spirits! Explore also the non-alcoholic beverages
Send us an email if you want to suggest edits, or if you are looking for more info, at
cheers@drinkitalian.com
Two of the best books about Italian grapes, where some of this information comes from, are:
– Native Grapes of Italy, by Ian d’Agata
– Italian Wine Unplugged, by Steve Kim
Additionally, you can discover the other grapes from Tuscany.
