In this grape miniseries, I cover one of the greatest yet little known red grapes of Italy: Sagrantino.

Photo: Sagrantino. Source: Arnaldo Caprai

This grape is likely native to Umbria in Central Italy, although there is speculation that it is from more far-flung parts of the globe. Nevertheless, most of the world's plantings are in Montefalco and the surrounding areas and it is firmly rooted (literally and figuratively) there.

With outrageously high polyphenols, Sagrantino is dark in color, high in tannin, and needs lots of heat to ripen. Its brambly berry notes contrast with savory herb, smoke, tobacco, and baking spice aromas and flavors to give this wine a sweet yet savory profile that you'd be hard pressed to find in any other bottle.

In the show I review the history of the grape, its behavior in the vineyard, its flavors and aromas, and the various regions in which it is grown, including Australia, warmer parts of the US, Argentina, and Brazil.

Although it requires age to live up to its true potential, Sagrantino is a grape you should try – it is truly one of the great reds of the world and as winemakers learn more about making dry wine from it, it's only getting better every year.

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