“Sagrantino's potential as a world-class wine has emerged through an ongoing process of study and experimentation.” Marco Caprai's Innovation.
The winery and the wine
Umbria lives in the shadow of neighboring Tuscany, not only geographically, but also culturally and, above all, enologically. However, one man has set himself the ambitious goal of reversing this dynamic: Marco Caprai, soul and heart of the Arnaldo Caprai winery, is committed to making Sagrantino, the region's signature grape, shine in the firmament of world wine.
Sagrantino, an indigenous variety of Umbria, is as unique as it is complex, a gem that reflects the intense and vigorous character of its terroir. Caprai, heir to a winemaking tradition begun by his father Arnaldo, has dedicated his career to research and innovation to enhance this extraordinary grape. “Sagrantino has a unique geographical and genetic identity, an authentic, rich and overwhelming character,” he says, interviewed by Robb Report. His goal? To make wines that are not only of sublime quality, but also a faithful mirror of their history and terroir.
One of Marco Caprai's most fascinating projects is the innovative technique called “Vinificazione Integrale in Botte,” "Integral barrel vinification", developed in collaboration with French winemaker Michel Rolland. This method involves the use of whole berries, not crushed, left to ferment directly in barrels, rotated constantly for about 20 days. The goal is to soften the powerful tannins that characterize Sagrantino, creating a more elegant and refined wine. “We are not looking for tannins; Sagrantino has them naturally. We just need to make them more harmonious, “ explains Rolland, also to Robb Report.
This technique represents the perfect balance between tradition and modernity, reflecting Caprai's approach, which combines classic practices such as targeted thinning and green harvesting with cutting-edge methods. "Sagrantino's potential as a world-class wine has emerged through an ongoing process of study and experimentation, ” Caprai stresses. The result of these attentions is masterfully represented by the special edition 25 Anni Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG 2020. This wine has a deep purple color and releases intense aromas of blackberry, sweet spices and a slight hint of eucalyptus.
Hints of cassis, cocoa, mint tea and baking spices stand out on the palate, wrapped in silky tannins that caress the palate, concluding in a soft, fruity finish. A celebration of Sagrantino in all its magnificence. Marco Caprai's journey is more than a winemaking endeavor; it is a cultural mission to redeem Umbria and its iconic grape variety, elevating them to a level of international prestige. “We want each bottle of Sagrantino to tell the story of our land, our commitment and our passion,” he declares.
