Colorino is a native black grape variety from Tuscany, believed to originate from the Valdarno hills, where it may have developed from the selection of ancient wild vines. The name refers to the intense pigmentation of the skin, whilst the flesh remains essentially colourless. Among the various regional varieties, Colorino del Valdarno is distinguished by its shoots, canes and leaves, which are often tinged with red. The mature leaf is medium-sized, pentagonal and generally three- or five-lobed, with an open petiole sinus and a serrated margin. The bunch is conical, long, with three or four wings, of medium to high density and a short stalk; the berries are small to medium in size, spherical, with a firm, blue-black skin rich in anthocyanins, slightly firm flesh and colourless juice.
It is mainly grown in the Upper Valdarno, the Chianti Classico region and the provinces of Arezzo, Florence and Siena. In winemaking, it offers intense ruby-red hues, often with violet highlights, aromas of black fruits, ripe cherry, violet and delicate spicy notes. On the palate, it displays good freshness, noticeable tannins, structure and length – qualities that promote positive ageing over time. Historically used in traditional Tuscan winemaking, it remains a valuable component in blends with Sangiovese, to which it contributes colour, body and depth without compromising the region’s characteristic elegance.
