Overview
Sagrantino produces the world's most tannic wine — even more tannic than Barolo or Tannat. 100% indigenous, grown only in 5 communes around Montefalco, aged minimum 37 months before release (80 for Riserva). In youth it is almost unapproachable; after 10–15 years it develops extraordinary dried-fruit, chocolate and violet complexity. Arnaldo Caprai rescued the variety from near-extinction in the 1970s.
In The Glass
- Colour
- Deep purple
- Nose
- Dried cherry, Dark plum, Blackberry, Dark chocolate and Iron.
- Palate
- Italy's most tannic — unyielding in youth, transcendent with age. Generally very full-bodied, crisp acidity, grippy tannins, dry, with a very long finish.
Tasting Profile
Body Very Full5/5
Tannins Grippy5/5
Acidity Crisp4/5
Sweetness Bone Dry1/5
Alcohol High4/5
Grapes
Sagrantino
Aromas And Notes
Dried cherryDark plumBlackberryFigPruneDark chocolateIronVioletHerbsLeatherTobaccoCoffeeDried rose
Terroir
Warm continental — Umbrian hills, elevated (400–600m), hot dry summers, cold winters.
Clay-limestoneSandstoneSchist
Food Pairings
Wild boar (cinghiale)Grilled lambTruffle pastaAged PecorinoLentils of Castelluccio
Notable Producers
- Arnaldo Caprai, founded 1971 - Sagrantino 25 Anni
- Scacciadiavoli, founded 1884 - Sagrantino di Montefalco
- Paolo Bea, founded 1980 - San Valentino Sagrantino