Sagrantino is a deeply colored grape variety that produces one of central Italy’s most tannic red wines. Though Sagrantino’s origins are disputed, the region of Umbria – and in particular the area around the town of Montefalco ‒ has been the variety’s home for centuries.
Varietal Sagrantino is a dark and dense wine that is unique to Umbria. Its fruit profile ranges from black cherries to ripe blackberry, with many secondary spicy and earthy characteristics. A certain smokiness is sometimes noted in some examples, while sappy pine flavors have been observed in others. It is typically a wine that is both sweet and savory.
Sagrantino’s high tannins and affinity for oak mean that it matures particularly well, which is reflected in the stipulation in the local wine law that it must not be released until it has aged for at least 30 months. Fortunately, though, Sagrantino’s tannins are more sweet than austere and modern examples can be quite approachable in their youth. Sagrantino is more heavy bodied than Sangiovese, its traditional blending partner.
Often described as elusive and mysterious, Sagrantino is produced by only a handful of producers in Montefalco and hardly grown outside Italy at all. Consequently, its availability is limited, though an increase in international attention has seen a rekindling of interest in this intensely colored grape.
Provided by: Wine Searcher