Cornetta is an ancient black grape variety from the Umbrian tradition, historically grown in the Cannara area and the neighbouring municipalities of Bettona and Foligno. In Cannara, it is traditionally identified with Vernaccia, the base wine for Vernaccia di Cannara, a passito wine linked to local culture and the Easter table tradition. The name is thought to derive from the distinctive shape of the berry, which is elliptical and slightly arched, resembling a small horn. The leaf is medium-sized, pentagonal and five-lobed, with a U-shaped petiole sinus and overlapping margins; the upper surface is smooth and deep green, whilst the underside has a characteristic velvety texture. The bunch, moderately compact, is elongated and pyramidal in shape, with a small wing. The berry is medium-sized, ellipsoidal, uniformly blue-black, with a thick, moderately pruinose skin; the flesh is colourless and has a neutral, slightly acidic and mildly astringent flavour. The late harvest and the balance between sugars and acidity make the grapes particularly suitable for drying on racks for two or three months. The wine has an intense ruby-red colour with violet hues, aromas of ripe red fruits, dried fruit and subtle hints of honey. On the palate, it is sweet, fresh and savoury, supported by soft tannins, good polyphenolic content and a balanced structure – characteristics that promote a pleasant development over time.
