Sagrantino

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Sagrantino[edit | edit source]

Montefalco, the heart of Sagrantino production

Sagrantino is a red Italian grape variety that is indigenous to the region of Umbria, specifically the area around the town of Montefalco. Known for producing deeply colored and tannic wines, Sagrantino has gained recognition for its unique flavor profile and aging potential.

History[edit | edit source]

The origins of Sagrantino are somewhat obscure, but it is believed to have been brought to Umbria by Franciscan monks from Asia Minor. The grape was traditionally used to produce sweet passito wines, which were often consumed during religious ceremonies. Over time, the production of dry Sagrantino wines has increased, and today it is primarily known for its robust dry red wines.

Viticulture[edit | edit source]

Sagrantino is a late-ripening variety that thrives in the clay and limestone soils of the Montefalco region. The climate of Umbria, with its hot summers and cold winters, provides ideal conditions for the grape to develop its characteristic thick skin, which contributes to the wine's high tannin content. The grape is known for its resistance to disease, making it a reliable choice for winemakers in the region.

Wine Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Sagrantino wines from Italy and Australia

Sagrantino wines are renowned for their deep color, intense tannins, and rich flavors. The wines often exhibit notes of dark fruit, such as blackberry and plum, along with earthy and spicy undertones. Due to their high tannin levels, Sagrantino wines are well-suited for aging, with many examples benefiting from several years in the bottle to soften and develop complexity.

Production[edit | edit source]

The production of Sagrantino is centered around the town of Montefalco, where it is the primary grape in the Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG designation. The DOCG regulations require that Sagrantino wines be made from 100% Sagrantino grapes and aged for a minimum of 37 months, including at least 12 months in wood.

Food Pairing[edit | edit source]

Sagrantino's bold flavors and tannic structure make it an excellent match for hearty dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, game, and aged cheeses. The wine's robust nature can stand up to rich and flavorful foods, making it a versatile choice for a variety of culinary applications.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD