Tintilia is Molise’s main indigenous red grape variety, documented in the region since at least the late 18th century and mentioned in a manuscript dating from 1810. Long confused with Bovale Grande or believed to be of Iberian origin, it was subsequently recognised as a genetically distinct variety and revitalised through a major restoration programme. Today it is grown mainly in the provinces of Campobasso and Isernia, particularly in the hilly and inland areas, where it expresses a distinct regional character. From an ampelographic point of view, it has medium-sized leaves, pentagonal or orbicular in shape, generally with five or seven lobes; the bunch is medium to long, loose, and sometimes winged, whilst the berry is small, short-elliptical, with a thick, very pruinose skin that is blue-black in colour. The wines produced are characterised by an intense ruby-red colour, often enriched with violet hues, and by aromas of plum, dark fruits, violet and spices, with hints of black pepper and herbaceous nuances. On the palate, they display good freshness, structure, warmth and elegant tannins, underpinned by a marked phenolic concentration. Tintilia lends itself both to young, dynamic wines and to more complex versions, capable of evolving through ageing in oak and in the bottle.