Nerello Calabrese

Cultivated mainly in the Locride area, it takes on numerous names. In some areas of Calabria, the name Nerello is also used to indicate Sangiovese.

Ripening is late, usually occurs during the first half of October, the Nerello Calabrese has a medium-large, medium-elongated bunch, conical in shape with several drooping wings and a pointed end, sparse or compact. Medium-sized berry, short ellipsoid, medium-thick skin, well pruinose, color from blue to dark red-violet. The pulp has little consistency.

Grown in particular in hilly or low mountain areas, it is found in old vineyards trained as saplings. Very sensitive to downy mildew and, in some conditions, to mold, acid rot and drought.

The Nerello Calabrese grape is mainly used in blends, but can also be found on its own producing wines with good structure.