Portfolio of Wines from Umbria
Although the Umbri, described by Pliny as Italy's oldest tribe, first settled the region, evidence of the first cultivation of wine in Umbria can be found in the frescoes and implements found in the tombs of the Umbri's conquerors, the Etruscans. Umbria produces small quantities of excellent wine among its rolling hills, which run along the tributaries of the great Tiber River.
This small, landlocked province claims two stellar DOCGs including the famous Sangrantino di Montefalco, perhaps brought from Greece by Byzantine monks.
Wines of Milziade Antano
Grapes: 100% Sagrantino
Aging: 30 mo, 12 mos in wood
Annual Production: 458 cases
Alcohol: 14.5%
Service: 64° F
Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG "Colleallodole" Cru
There are only 250 acres of Sagrantino vineyards in the world and of these, some of the most unique are the old vine holdings of the Antano family. Francesco carries on the tradition of handcrafted, limited bottlings from his late father, Milziade. "Colleallodole" is a cru from the finest vines, delivering full-bodied toasted wild berry with well-integrated tannins.
Aging is a combination of barrique and botte, adjusted to the nuances of each vintage. Pairs with grilled meat, small game, and venison. Aeration recommended.
Grape: Sangiovese, Sagrantino, other regional varietals
Aging: 30 mos, 12 mos in wood
Annual Production: 165 cases
Alcohol: 14%
Service: 61-64°
Montefalco Rosso DOC Riserva
Tuscany is not the only place that grows world-class Sangiovese. Umbria, its neighbor to the east, is also prime terroir for the popular grape. As in Tuscany, the best grapes come from vineyards surrounding hill towns. The Montefalco Rosso DOC was established to showcase both their superb Sangiovese and the local jewel, Sagrantino di Montefalco.
The blend is a maximum of 15 percent Sagrantino, 60-70 percent Sangiovese, and the balance from red varieties historically grown in Montefalco. With additional ageing and greater concentration it can be labeled Riserva.
The rich wine shows intense garnet in color while dark berry meets forest floor on the nose. The palette is lush, dark, and sultry with a food-flattering finish. Think red-sauced pasta, and grilled and roasted meat.
Grape: 60-70% Sangiovese, 10-15% Sagrantino, 15-30% other grapes
Aging: 30 mos beg. Nov 1, 12 mos in wood
Annual Production: 458 cases
Alcohol: 14%
Service: 64°
Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG
The Sagrantino grape has the highest polyphenol complexity of any known wine grape. Every aroma or flavor, when translated into chemical analysis would be a polyphenol. Hence, Sagrantino has the largest "library" of potential nuances. Along with concentrated flavors and aromas of blackberry and small woodland fruits, Sagrantino also has huge tannins.
The Antano family has a reputation for their masterful handling of this challenging varietal. Although Sagrantino can benefit from extended ageing, no bottle leaves Fattoria Colleallodole before it is deemed ready to be enjoyed. Aeration is recommended. Complements grilled meat, small game, and venison.
Grape: 100% Sagrantino
Aging: 30 mos
Annual Production: 108 cases
Alcohol: 15%
Service: 61°
Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG Passito
Since at least the 12th century, Sagrantino Passito (a sweet wine) has been used for sacramental purposes. Records back to the 1100s document when the grape should have been harvested, with detailed requirements for proper vinification. Some speculate it was brought to Umbria by Byzantine monks. In fact, until the late 1970s there was no dry table wine made from the amazing Sagrantino grape.
After harvest, grapes for Passito wines are dried to concentrate the juice before being crushed. As a dessert wine, the massive fruit and sweetness balance the powerful tannins. Perfect with aged cheese and savory desserts.