Fortana

Grape variety	Fortana
Synonyms	Commonly referred to as 'Golden Grape' in several provinces, and as 'Dallora nera' in historical texts. Also known as 'Prungentile' or 'Brungentile' and 'Uva francese nera' or 'Uva d'aceto'. In some regions, it is referred to as 'Costa d'oro', 'Dora', and 'Fruttano'.
Grape colour	Red grape
History	Fortana, often referred to as Uva D'Oro, originated from the Còte d'Or region in Burgundy. It was brought to Italy by Renee of France as part of her dowry when she married the Duke of Este. This grape has been cultivated since the 11th century, thanks to the land reclamation efforts of the Pomposa monks. This has resulted in rows of low, centuries-old vines that have stood the test of time. The grape is primarily grown in the coastal strip of land marked by dunes, woods, and saline marshes, making it an integral part of the region's history and culture.
Ampelographic features	The Fortana grape vine has a medium-sized leaf that is pentagonal and slightly elongated. The petiolar sinus is V-U shaped, with a tendency to close up. The leaf has deep upper sinuses that also tend to close, and shallow lower lateral sinuses that are U-shaped. The lobes of the leaf are slightly revolved, and the flap is a bit folded. The upper leaf surface is an intense green color and a bit bulky. The lower leaf surface is light green and felted, with light velvet on the ribs. The ribs are green, with red at the insertion, and those of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd order protrude from the lower leaf surface. The grape bunch is large and elongated, often with a pyramid shape. The grape is large and ellipsoidal, with very pruinose skin that is blue-black or sometimes reddish due to incomplete maturation. The skin is thick, consistent, and tannic. The pulp of the grape is juicy, simple, and has a sour taste.
Characteristics of the wine	Wine produced from the Fortana grape variety has a unique characteristic of bold and robust flavors. It is known for its deep, rich color and strong, fruity aroma. The taste profile includes a pleasant blend of fruity and earthy notes, with a hint of spice. The wine is well-structured and balanced, with a medium body and a long, lingering finish. It pairs well with a range of foods, particularly meat dishes and strong cheeses.