Terrano is an ancient black grape variety from the north-eastern Adriatic region, traditionally associated with the Karst and Istria. It belongs to the Refosco family and retains a strong sense of place, as reflected in its synonyms Teran, Refosco d’Istria and Refosco del Carso; in Romagna it is known as Cagnina. The leaf is medium to large, rounded or pentagonal, generally three-lobed, with a substantial blade and serrated margins. The bunch is medium to large, pyramidal, often winged and moderately compact; the berry, of medium size and spherical or slightly ellipsoidal in shape, has a pruinose, firm skin of an intense blue-black colour. It is mainly grown in the Trieste and Gorizia Karst regions, Croatian Istria, the Slovenian Kras and certain areas of Emilia-Romagna and the Marche. The wine is characterised by an intense ruby-red colour, often enlivened by violet hues, and a fragrant aromatic profile dominated by morello cherry, dark cherry and small wild berries, with possible spicy and herbaceous notes. On the palate, it is fresh, savoury and well-structured, underpinned by lively acidity and vigorous tannins. Traditionally enjoyed young, the finest examples can age for several years, developing greater harmony and complexity. What makes it particularly interesting is its historical link with the calcareous, reddish soils of the Karst, which accentuate its tension and mineral character.
