Sagrantino

Grape variety	Sagrantino
Grape colour	Red grape
History	Sagrantino, a unique red grape variety, is deeply rooted in Umbria, specifically the Montefalco region. Its lineage, believed to be of Greek ancestry, dates back to the Middle Ages when it was likely brought to Italy by monks, the then custodians of viticultural knowledge. This theory is reinforced by the name 'Sagrantino', which could refer to 'sacrifice' or 'sacristy'. There's also speculation that the grape could be linked to religious practices, as historical documents mention a wine used for Mass celebrations in the Montefalco area. Some conjecture that Sagrantino could be the same grape known as 'Itriola' by Pliny the Elder in his 'Naturalis Historiae', suggesting an even older history of this grape in the region. Monastic communities played a significant role in the preservation and propagation of this grape, even during periods of neglect and decay post the fall of the Roman Empire.
Ampelographic features	Sagrantino grape exhibits medium-sized leaves that are orbicular, usually trilobed, and occasionally five-lobed. The leaf's petiolar sinus is U-shaped, with overlapping edges and significant depth. The upper lateral sinuses are of elliptical shape, semi-closed or open, while the lower lateral sinuses are either non-existent or shallow, formed in a V shape. The leaf's upper surface is green, with a vesicular or bulging texture, whereas the underside is lanterned tomentose. The leaf blade is corrugated and the lobes are convex with their tips either upturned or erect. The main veins on the lower surface are green and silky in texture. The leaf dentition is regular to medium, with one or two series of medium or almost large teeth, having narrow, slightly convex margins.
Characteristics of the wine	Wine produced from the Sagrantino grape is a rich ruby red color, deepening to garnet with orange hues as it ages. The bouquet is intense and complex, exuding spicy, ethereal aromas intermingled with notes of red fruit preserves. On the palate, it is tannic, warming, and full-bodied, offering a lingering taste and olfactory persistence.
Synonyms	None known for the Sagrantino grape variety.