Pugnitello is an ancient black-skinned grape variety from Tuscany, named after the shape of its cluster, which resembles a small fist. It was rediscovered and studied in collaboration with the Universities of Florence and Pisa in the experimental vineyards of San Felice (Vitiarium), starting in 1987, through 20 years of research and experimentation aimed at preserving and enhancing some indigenous Tuscan grape varieties that were on the verge of extinction. Among the grapes under examination, the real discovery was Pugnitello. There are no certain records about its origin, but it is believed to come from the Grosseto province. It has some morphological similarities with Montepulciano, but it differs in its lower productivity and the different shape of the cluster. It is not explicitly included in any DOP designation, but it can be found in many Tuscan IGTs.

From an ampelographic standpoint, Pugnitello has medium-sized, long, pentagonal, quinquelobed leaves. Its cluster is small, short, pyramidal, and moderately compact. The berries are medium, uniform, and round, with a circular section and thick, leathery, blue-black skins, which are very pruinose. The wine produced from the Pugnitello grape has an intense ruby red color with violet hues. On the nose, it presents a slightly herbaceous note, while on the palate, it reveals a full flavor, high alcohol content, good acidity, and fine tannins.