Along La Strada del Sagrantino in the Heart of Italy’s Green Heart (Part One)
View of Montefalco (Ph © milla74)
It was poet Giosuè Carducci who gave Umbria the title, “green heart of Italy”. And for good reason…
 
Umbria truly is a lush, verdant region literally located in the heart of Italy. As with every other region, Umbria has its own distinct personality, cuisine and wines. And in the heart of the green heart is Montefalco.
 
When I first visited Umbria nine years ago, Montefalco and Sagrantino were virtually unknown. Fast forward to present day and both have become popular and well-known, not only among wine enthusiasts but, among those seeking an authentic “off the beaten track” experience…
 
Returning to Montefalco in fall of 2015, I had the opportunity to once again immerse in the “green heart”. This included, of course, visits to local enotecas and several stellar boutique wineries along the La Strada del Sagrantino, the Sagrantino Wine Trail.
 
Each of the family-owned wineries featured here demonstrate a strong commitment to this land—their land— and to preserving its ecology and integrity. With enormous pride, they proudly embrace and share their unique heritage and story, their deep rooted love and appreciation for their land and their dedication to producing only the finest wines. Certainly it’s a commitment that comes from the heart, the green heart…
 
Let’s Go to Italy Together!Even though we had the privilege and pleasure of tasting many of the same varietals, each winery definitely represented the distinct philosophy and individuality of its winemaker. Each experience was a revelation and a delight. As is the custom in Italy, each wine selection was accompanied with complementary cheeses, meats and/or olives that definitely  enhanced their sublime characteristics. Delizioso!
 
The varietals included at the tastings were:
Whites: Grechetto, Trebbiano Spoletino, Clarignano Umbria Bianco (Grechetto, Viognier and Chardonnay)
Reds: Sangiovese, Montefalco Rosso (Sangiovese & Sagrantino blended with another red such as Merlot, Barbera or Colorino), Montefalco Sagrantino
 

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