Pugnitello

Pugnitello is an ancient black grape variety of unknown origin from Tuscany, named for the shape of its cluster, which resembles a small fist (pugnitello). It features a semi-open, glabrous (hairless) shoot tip, green in color with medium-intensity striated anthocyanin pigmentation. The leaf is medium-sized, moderately long, pentagonal, and five-lobed; the upper surface is dark green, occasionally showing light anthocyanin pigmentation in the veins. The petiolar sinus is closed, with a lyre or V-shaped base. The cluster is small, very short, pyramidal, simple, and medium-compact. The berry is medium-sized, uniform, and rounded; the skin is thick, leathery, uniform blue-black in color, and very pruinose (covered in a thick waxy bloom). The pulp is colorless, juicy, and firm, with a distinct flavor profile of herbaceous notes and chili pepper. Pugnitello produces a wine of very intense ruby red color with violet hues. On the nose, it is slightly herbaceous, while on the palate, it reveals a full-bodied taste, high alcohol content, good acidity, and tannins of great finesse.