What are the best Umbrian red wines?
Umbrian wines offer a good mix of tradition and innovation. The leading red grape varieties are undoubtedly Sagrantino and Sangiovese, but in recent years some international varieties, such as Pinot Noir and Merlot, have also been gaining ground. It is not uncommon to find grape varieties typical of neighbouring regions, such as Montepulciano d'Abruzzo and Syrah.
Before looking at the most important appellations, we can tell you that, broadly speaking, Umbrian red wines can be divided into two main groups.
On the one hand, there are the Sagrantino di Montefalco wines, which are structured, powerful reds that require many years of ageing to soften and reach their full aromatic potential.
On the other hand, there are the Sangiovese-based wines, such as Umbria IGT or some DOCG wines, which we will look at shortly, which are more fruity and fragrant, as well as easier to drink.
The most important DOC and DOCG red wines of Umbria
Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG: the wine that symbolises Umbria, made from Sagrantino, a black grape that produces full-bodied, tannic and long-lived wines with aromas of ripe berries, tobacco and spices. Long and unjustly neglected, today it is undoubtedly one of the best Italian red wines.
Montefalco Rosso DOC: a blend mainly based on Sangiovese with small percentages of Sagrantino and other local grapes. A fruity, smooth and elegant wine.
Torgiano Rosso Riserva DOCG: a blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo Nero and Ciliegiolo. Aged in wood, it is a structured and balanced wine with aromas of black fruit, blackberry, morello cherry and hints of violet.
Assisi Rosso DOC: a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot, with fruity notes and good structure.
Colli Perugini Rosso DOC: the main area for Sangiovese in Umbria, with fruity and pleasant wines.
