Sagrantino

Sagrantino is a red grape variety native to Umbria, where it is primarily cultivated in the Montefalco area. Though still relatively limited in production, the cultivated area of Sagrantino is slowly expanding due to increasing interest in its unique character and ageing potential.

The origin of the name "Sagrantino" remains uncertain. It is believed to derive either from "sagra" - a local term for a town's food festival - or from "sacrestia" (vestry), as the wine may once have been used in religious ceremonies or masses.

Historically, Sagrantino was used almost exclusively to produce passito-style wines, made from dried grapes, prized for their intensity and sweetness. However, beginning in the 1970s, a shift occurred as winemakers began focusing more on the secco (dry) style, which now dominates modern production.

The Sagrantino vine is known for its vigorous growth, low yields, and thick-skinned berries, which contribute to the grape's naturally high tannin levels and deep color. It thrives in the clay-limestone soils of Umbria, particularly around Montefalco, where it benefits from warm days and cool nights that help preserve acidity and develop complex aromas. The vine is late-ripening, requiring careful management and extended hang time to achieve full phenolic maturity, which is essential for balancing its intense tannic structure.

Sagrantino is notable for having one of the highest tannin levels of any grape variety in the world. These firm tannins, combined with rich fruit and structure, give the wines exceptional longevity and ageing potential. In the glass, Sagrantino wines are typically dark and opaque, offering aromas of blackberry, black cherry, plum, and spice. On the palate, they are bold, full-bodied, and complex, often requiring several years of bottle age to fully soften and develop.

The most renowned expression of the grape is Sagrantino di Montefalco, a DOCG wine that showcases the depth and power of this remarkable variety.