Tintilia

Tintilia is the signature native red grape of Molise, a small central-southern Italian region, where it was historically the most important variety before nearly disappearing in the twentieth century as growers switched to higher-yielding grapes. Its name likely derives from the Spanish tinto ('red'/'dyed'), pointing to a probable introduction during Spanish (Bourbon) rule; it is genetically distinct from the Sardinian Bovale with which it was once confused.

It thrives on Molise's higher inland hills and gives deeply coloured, structured reds with firm tannins, good acidity and flavours of dark berries, spice, liquorice and Mediterranean herbs. Championed by a handful of producers, it was given its own Tintilia del Molise DOC in 2011 and is now the flag-bearer of Molise's wine identity.