Everything About Sagrantino Grape
"sah-grahn-TEE-noh" 
Sagrantino Description
Origin: Umbria, Italy
History: Sagrantino is an ancient red grape variety native to the Montefalco region of Umbria in central Italy. Its origins are somewhat unclear, with the first written record in Umbria in the late 16th century as a communion wine. The name 'Sagrantino' is believed to derive from 'sagra' (feast) or 'sacrestia' (communion wine), indicating its historical use in religious ceremonies. The grape was traditionally used to produce sweet passito wines, but in recent decades, dry (secco) versions have gained prominence, especially after the Montefalco Sagrantino wine was granted DOCG status in 1992.
Appearance: Small, thick-skinned berries with a deep blue-black hue, growing in compact clusters.
Growing Traits: Sagrantino is a vigorous vine that thrives in the clay and limestone soils of Umbria. It is well-suited to hot and dry conditions, producing grapes with high tannin content and deep color. The grape's thick skins contribute to its resistance against diseases and pests. Sagrantino is typically harvested in late October, allowing for full phenolic ripeness, which is essential to balance its robust tannins.
Food Pairing Sagrantino's bold tannic structure and full body make it an excellent match for rich, hearty dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, game, and aged cheeses. Traditional Umbrian dishes such as wild boar ragù, roasted lamb, and pecorino cheese complement the wine's intensity. The wine's high tannins also allow it to stand up to spicy dishes and those with high fat content, making it versatile in pairing with diverse cuisines.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Full-bodied with a robust structure, characterized by high tannins and deep color. Typically vinified dry, though traditional sweet passito styles also exist. Exceptionally high tannin levels, contributing to its bold and astringent profile. Medium to high acidity, providing balance to its rich tannic structure. Moderate to high alcohol content, generally ranging from 13.5% to 15%.
Blackberry 
Plum 
Licorice 
Black tea 
Black pepper Sagrantino wines are known for their intense and complex flavor profile. Dominant notes include dark fruits such as blackberry and plum, complemented by hints of licorice, black tea, and black pepper. The high tannin content provides a firm structure, while the medium to high acidity adds freshness. With aging, Sagrantino develops additional layers of complexity, including earthy and spicy nuances, making it a wine with excellent aging potential.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/italy.png)
Italy
•Umbria (Montefalco)
![[object Object] Region](/regions/united_states.png)
United States
•California
•Texas
![[object Object] Region](/regions/australia.png)
Australia
•South Australia
Notable Wines and Producers
Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG
•Arnaldo Caprai
•Paolo Bea
•Marco Caprai
Montefalco Rosso DOC
•Scacciadiavoli
•Antonelli San Marco
Sagrantino FAQ
Umbria, Italy
Sagrantino has a body level of 5 out of 5. Which means that Sagrantino is Full bodied.
Sagrantino has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Sagrantino is Dry.
Umbria, Italy
Sagrantino is grown in Italy (Umbria (Montefalco))United States (California, Texas)Australia (South Australia).
Sagrantino wines are known for their intense and complex flavor profile. Dominant notes include dark fruits such as blackberry and plum, complemented by hints of licorice, black tea, and black pepper. The high tannin content provides a firm structure, while the medium to high acidity adds freshness. With aging, Sagrantino develops additional layers of complexity, including earthy and spicy nuances, making it a wine with excellent aging potential.
Sagrantino's bold tannic structure and full body make it an excellent match for rich, hearty dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, game, and aged cheeses. Traditional Umbrian dishes such as wild boar ragù, roasted lamb, and pecorino cheese complement the wine's intensity. The wine's high tannins also allow it to stand up to spicy dishes and those with high fat content, making it versatile in pairing with diverse cuisines.
Sagrantino wines are known for their intense and complex flavor profile. Dominant notes include dark fruits such as blackberry and plum, complemented by hints of licorice, black tea, and black pepper. The high tannin content provides a firm structure, while the medium to high acidity adds freshness. With aging, Sagrantino develops additional layers of complexity, including earthy and spicy nuances, making it a wine with excellent aging potential.