Who makes it?

The Baiocchi Montefalco is a rich red wine that comes from Umbria in Central Italy. This Montefalco region’s wine history intertwines with Sagrantino where you will find much of the grape’s plantings. Of course, it is not the only variety to be planted there with the region. Winelovers might also know Trebbiano Spoletino & Grechetto as well as Sangiovese.

What is really intriguing, is that Sagrantino, a red grape was used extensively for making unfortified Passito dessert wines there in Montefalco.  Passito obviously refers to the fact that this is a wine made by drying grapes for at least 2 months on racks before they are pressed ready for ferment. 

The producer should not be confused with the family winery in the USA with the same surname. They are based around Montepulciano in neighbouring Tuscany and make a Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

How do they make it?

This red wine is 100% Sagrantino, as per the DOCG regulations, and is a dry version of the wine. It has been matured in French oak barrels for 12 months. After bottling, it continues to rest for a further 6 months. These Sagrantino wines are better after some cellaring time. 

What does it taste like?

This is a full bodied Italian red experience. It has black cherry, liquorice and some herbal notes gives full support with some smoky creamy oak. There is balance in that oak and the palate is very fleshy and shapely thanks to those varietal tannins.

It goes without saying, this is one for the cellar too.

What to drink it with?

Certainly this Baiocchi Montefalco Sagrantino will be great company with a juicy steak, but also a ragu with plenty of garlic or roast venison with all the trimmings.

Cheese

Undoubtedly, Mature hard cheeses such as Comte and cheddar will work well here. There might even be enough fruit ripeness to go for a blue. 

Quickie review « Warmly and very richly spiced but very amiable red from Umbria, Italy  »

Country of Origin: Montefalco, Italy
Tasting Date: October 2023
Price:  UK £17.5
Drink: now – 10+ years 
Needs food: Perhaps better with 
Source: purchase

If you like Italian red wines, why not check out:
Why you should be drinking Nero d’Avola!

Read consorziomontefalco for more information about the Sagrantino grape.