Ciliegiolo is probably of Spanish origin, although various experts believe it to be a synonym of "Ciregiolo", of which traces were found in Tuscany as long ago as the 17th century. It takes its name from the typically fruity, cherry aroma. A distant relative of Sangiovese, this grape is often used in blends, thanks to its ability to add depth of colour and aroma to a wine.
It can be found all over Umbria, but its preferred territory is in the Amerini hills in the province of Terni. When vinified as a pure varietal, it yields a wine with an intense ruby-red colour and a distinctively fruity, fresh, slightly alcoholic aroma.
