Collection: Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG

Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG is a powerful red wine from Umbrien in central Italy. The appellation lies in a basin southeast of Torgiano, encompassing five municipalities, and was established in 1979 and elevated to DOCG status in 1992. Sagrantino is an indigenous grape found almost exclusively here, and its origin is attributed either to Greek roots or to Franciscan monks who, according to legend, are said to have brought it to the region.

Sagrantino di Montefalco is made from 100 percent Sagrantino, so it is the grape's own character that comes through clearly. It is unusually rich in polyphenols, which gives a deep, dark colour and a markedly more tannic structure than Sangiovese. The wines are dense and concentrated with aromas ranging from blackberry jam to pine tar, and a flavour that unites something salty and something sweet. The tannins are powerful, but come across as more sweet and full than sharp.

The vineyards lie in a basin with clay soil mixed with sand and limestone. Currents from the Apennines and the Mediterranean temper the climate and extend the ripening season, which benefits the late, tannin-rich grape. With a relatively modest area planted, these are comparatively rare wines.

Besides Sagrantino di Montefalco itself, you will also encounter Montefalco Rosso, where Sangiovese makes up 60-70 percent and Sagrantino at least 10 percent, as well as Grechetto-based white wines that producers in the area make under the appellation Colli Martani DOC.

This entire selection comes from precisely this delimited appellation in Umbrien, the grape's homeland. That gives you the chance to go straight to the source, whether you are looking for the full-bodied, age-worthy Sagrantino di Montefalco for a hearty meal, or you want to start more accessibly with a Montefalco Rosso, where Sangiovese softens the expression. If you want to understand Umbrien's red soul, Sagrantino is an obvious place to begin.