Sagrantino
redWarm climate
Indigenous to Montefalco in Umbria. Produces some of Italy's most tannic, deeply colored reds. Needs years of aging to soften. Often compared to Nebbiolo and Aglianico for structure, but with even more tannin. Also used for sweet passito wines.
Needs 5-10 years minimum. Top examples age 20+ years.
Climate
Warm
Regions
1 region
Color
red
Typical Structure & Aromas
Structure
Body
FullTannins
GrippySweetness
Bone dryAcidity
CrispOakCommon
Where Sagrantino grows
Food Pairings
Braised wild boar with juniper berries and polenta
Aged Pecorino di Pienza with truffle honey and toasted walnuts
Osso buco alla Milanese with saffron risotto
Grilled Chianina beef ribeye with rosemary and garlic
Duck confit with black olive tapenade and roasted root vegetables
Aged Gorgonzola and pear tart with balsamic reduction
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Sagrantino taste like?▼
Sagrantino offers intense flavors of blackberry, plum, black pepper, and dark chocolate when young, developing complex notes of leather, tobacco, earth, and tar with age. It's known for being one of Italy's most tannic and deeply colored red wines.
Where does Sagrantino grow best?▼
Sagrantino grows best in Montefalco in Umbria, Italy, where it's indigenous to the region. It thrives in warm climates and this specific terroir produces the finest expressions of the grape.
What food pairs with Sagrantino?▼
Sagrantino's intense tannins and bold structure pair excellently with rich, hearty dishes like wild boar, grilled red meats, aged cheeses, and robust Italian cuisine. The wine's power can stand up to strongly flavored, fatty foods that help soften its tannins.
How does Sagrantino age?▼
Sagrantino needs years of aging to soften its massive tannin structure and reach its potential. With time, the wine develops complex tertiary aromas of leather, tobacco, earth, and tar while the intense fruit flavors integrate beautifully.
Is Sagrantino similar to other similar grapes?▼
Sagrantino is often compared to Nebbiolo and Aglianico for its structured, age-worthy character, but it actually has even more tannins than these powerful grapes. Like these varieties, it produces complex, long-lived wines that require patience to fully appreciate.