From: Montefalco, Umbria, Italy
Varietal: Sangiovese, Sagrantino, Merlot
Taste & Critical Acclaim: “Bright and fruit-forward with ripe raspberries and cherries as well as sweet spices, chocolate and candied orange peel. Medium- to full-bodied with deep, succulent fruit and firm, tightly packed tannins.” 92 points from James Suckling
This wine greets the senses with a captivating aroma that blends wildflowers, the sweetness of red fruits, and the depth of violet and red berry jam laced with a touch of nutmeg. On the palate, it makes a striking entrance—dry yet refreshingly fresh, striking a balance between softness and the assertive presence of tannins. The taste is intense, echoing the complexity of its aroma with notes of wildflowers, violet, and red berry jam. Full-bodied, rich, and dry, it evolves into a long finish underpinned by a subtle yet unmistakable hint of spice.
Pairing: Montefalco Rosso DOC, with its harmonious blend of Sangiovese, Sagrantino, and often Merlot, presents a versatile wine that pairs delightfully with a range of dishes, particularly those that echo the rustic elegance and robust flavors of Umbrian cuisine. Classic pairings include the luxurious depth of truffle dishes, such as Truffle Risotto, where the earthy, profound flavors of the truffles are uplifted by the wine's balanced acidity and fruit-forward character. The rich and intense flavors of wild boar, whether in a stew or as part of a hearty pasta dish, pair beautifully with Montefalco Rosso's structure and tannins.
Beyond these classic pairings, this wine also complements grilled meats, such as lamb or beef, where the smoky, charred exterior and juicy interior find a counterpart in the wine's robust body and fruity undertones. For cheese enthusiasts, a platter featuring aged pecorino or other mature cheeses can accentuate the wine's complexity and depth. Vegetarian dishes featuring lentils or mushrooms, especially when seasoned with herbs like rosemary or sage, can bring out the wine's aromatic profile and match its intensity. For a fusion of sweet and savory, consider pairing it with a dark chocolate dessert infused with chili pepper, complimenting the wine's fruit notes and soft tannins.
Purée de Pommes de Terre à la Truffe
By Guy Savoy
About: Arnaldo Caprai is a winery in the Montefalco region of Umbria, Italy. It is particularly renowned for its role in producing and promoting Sagrantino di Montefalco, a red wine made from the indigenous Sagrantino grape. The winery was founded in 1971 by Arnaldo Caprai, a successful textile businessman who decided to invest in the potential of his local area's winemaking traditions and the Sagrantino grape. He acquired forty-two hectares of Montefalco, four already planted in the Val Di Maggio estate. His vision was to produce high-quality wines and elevate the status of local varieties on both a national and international level. His decision to invest in the Sagrantino grape variety and the Montefalco region of Umbria was pivotal in revitalizing and promoting Sagrantino di Montefalco, a wine with ancient origins but was relatively unknown at the time.
Over the years, the winery, now led by Arnaldo's son, Marco Caprai, has been at the forefront of research and innovation in viticulture and winemaking techniques. This commitment has involved significant investment in scientific research and collaboration with universities and research institutes. The goal has been to optimize viticultural practices to enhance the grape quality and, consequently, the wine.
Arnaldo Caprai winery's efforts have significantly contributed to the recognition and appreciation of Sagrantino di Montefalco, which has gained a DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) status, Italy's highest wine classification. The winery is known for its dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility, adopting practices that ensure the health and longevity of the vineyards and surrounding ecosystems.
