What is the history of the Ciliegiolo grape variety?

The Ciliegiolo is an old red grape variety from central Italy, attested in Tuscany as early as 1590 ; its exact origin, however, remains uncertain. Its name means "little cherry" and evokes the color of its berries as well as the cherry aromas often associated with the wine. It is sometimes said that it was brought back from Spain by pilgrims returning from Santiago de Compostela, which would explain the old nickname "Ciliegiolo di Spagna", but this story is not established.

Genetics has clarified one point of its parentage: a study published in 2020 confirms that the Ciliegiolo descends from Sangiovese and Moscato violetto. It would therefore not be one of the parents of Sangiovese, as some earlier research had suggested. Long used in blends, notably in Tuscan wines, it is now also vinified on its own. It remains particularly linked to the Maremma, in southern Tuscany, where it is well established. Depending on the winemaking, its wines can be soft and fruity or more structured; the name of the grape variety therefore does not by itself guarantee a specific style.