Prunesta is an indigenous black-skinned grape variety from Calabria. Its origins are ancient, and some believe that Prunesta could be the Capinia grape mentioned by Pliny the Elder. The etymology of the name Prunesta seems to derive from the Latin “bruma,” referring to the abundance of pruina that covers the skin, which looks like a thin mist. Traditionally, Prunesta is also called Uva del Soldato or Ruggia. Prunesta is mainly found on the Tyrrhenian side of Calabria. It is also present in the wines of the Calabria IGT, Costa Viola IGT, and Valdamato IGT designations. The wine made from the Prunesta grape variety has a more or less intense ruby red color, is full-bodied, moderately tannic and alcoholic. Due to its limited spread, it is generally vinified in blends with other local grapes.
From an ampelographic standpoint, Prunesta has medium-sized, orbicular, trilobed leaves. Its cluster is medium-sized, pyramidal or conical, sometimes winged, and either moderately compact or loose. The berries are large, ellipsoidal, with pruinose skins of blue-violet color.
