Famoso is a white grape variety characteristic of Romagna which, rediscovered after years of neglect, is now returning to be an integral part of the enological offerings of this region. The first documents mentioning Famoso date back to 1437. In the 19th century, its presence was reported on the hills of Cesena, where it was also used for the production of table grapes. In the 20th century, after phylloxera, there was a significant contraction in the area cultivated with Famoso, bringing it almost to the brink of extinction. Today, some producers have seen in this grape variety a heritage of aromas and biodiversity to be valued, and it can be found in the areas of Forlì, Bertinoro, Faenza, Brisighella, and Bagnacavallo. The Famoso grape is a rustic plant, also suitable for less fertile soils and fairly harsh winter temperatures. This resistance is counterbalanced by a relatively modest productivity.
The wine produced with Famoso is characterized by intense aromas similar to those of Moscato, with sweet floral notes, ripe, exotic, and dried fruit. The fruit and flower scents resemble a Gewürztraminer without the typical spicy note. On the palate, it is fresh, slender, with softness and good balance, and a characteristic almond finish. Its aromaticity was considered excessive in the early 20th century, which partly led to its abandonment, relegating it to local consumption as a table grape. Today, the aromas are a strength of the wine obtained from the Famoso grape, which, along with its softness and structure, makes it ideal with fish and fresh cheeses from Romagna, such as Raviggiolo and Squacquerone.
