Montefalco Sagrantino Passito
Sagrantino Montefalco Passito is made from Sagrantino grapes that are are hung to dry on “graticci” to concentrate their flavors and sugars. In the past the Sagrantino Passito was the only wine produced from the Sagrantino varietal, and it was drunk during religious ceremonies in the villages of the Montefalco area. Although methods have improved and production refined the aim is to maintain the ancient connection to the rustic traditions and the Montefalco farming lifestyle remains unchanged.
Appellation: Sagrantino di Montefalco Passito DOCG
Type: Red, sweet
Varietal: 100% Sagrantino
Color: Intense ruby red with violet shadings, nearly opaque with traces of garnet.
Bouquet: Expansive and persistent with sweet fruits, notes of blackberry, black cherry and a subtle nuttiness. Sweet spices lead to a mineral finish.
Taste: Soft, sweet, voluptuous body, persistent and velvety. The tannins are thick and sweet, the acidity is well balanced, cutting the density and heaviness, while giving structure. Long finish, persistently fruity with notes of underbrush, forest fruit, and complex, intense spices.
Alcohol: 14% (varies with vintage).
Serving Suggestion: Serve at a 18-19°C (64-66°F) in a tall, fairly wide goblet..
Pairing: This is really a “meditation wine” but it is also delicious with with dry pastries, cream or jam tarts, almond biscotti or chocolate. It also pairs well with aged cheeses, both spicy and herbal.
Production Area: Montefalco (Perugia).
Elevation: 275 meters (900 feet) a.s.l.
Exposure: South, southwestern.
Training System: Spurred Cordon.
Soil: Medium mix of calcareous, clayey and sand.
Vine Density: 2,300 plants/acre.
Yield: 60 q/ha.
Harvest: From the 15th to the end of September.
Vinification: The grapes are hung to dry for about 30 days and de-rasped before crushing. The maceration on the skins lasts about one month before placed in barrels for aging..
Aging: 18-months in barrels made from French oak. After bottling, the bottles are held for a minimum of 4 months before release.
2007 Sagrantino di Montefalco Passito - 2 Bicchieri Neri - Vini d'Italia (Gambero Rosso)
2007 Sagrantino di Montefalco Passito - 88 Points - I Vini di Luca Maroni
2007 Sagrantino di Montefalco Passito - 3 Stelle - Vini Buoni d'Italia
2007 Sagrantino di Montefalco Passito – 89 Points – Wine Spectator (Oct 2013)
2007 Sagrantino di Montefalco Passito - Slow Wine
2007 Sagrantino di Montefalco Passito - 88 Points - Robert Parker Wine Advocate (#208 Aug 2013)
"The 2007 Montefalco Sagrantino Passito delivers a powerful punch with dark berry, inky concentration and an immediate aromatic delivery that seemingly pops straight out of the glass. That juxtaposition between the wine's natural sweetness and the astringent tannins makes a huge impact in the mouth." ~ M.L.
