Today’s post is about Montefalco Rosso DOC, one of the denominations in the Consorzio Tutela Vini Montefalco’s stable of wines. As I mentioned in my writing over the weekend, it is one of the denominations that they protect. Made with a blend of grapes that includes 60-80% Sangiovese, 10-25% Sagrantino, and 0-30% other grapes, the wine can be quite varied. What they have in common is my favorite grape variety – Sangiovese. This most Tuscan of grape varieties grows quite well in this hilly area with good ventilation and mixed soils. Blended with Sagrantino it becomes something even bigger and more elegant when done well.

I have had a number of these wines through the years and the first night of the event at the marvelous Locanda del Teatro , I tried Tabarrini’s wine Boccatone which was ethereal as so many of his wines can be. The wine was big and bold but also elegant with lots of complexity and structure. It worked well with my dishes.

It would have been wonderful with a steak but that was not an option on the menu. This location was magical for the food, the wine, and the local sommelier who helped us choose our wines. His passion for his town was evident and he showed us the cellar he has put together for the restaurant. This photo was just one corner of the cellar but its good to maintain your promises.

My query this week is can Montefalco Rosso compete with the likes of Rosso di Montepulciano, Rosso di Montalcino., or Morellino di Scansano. I think the answer is a resounding yes and for one am excited about this prospect. While there is considerable variety because of the blending component. Sagrantino is quite an important and tannic wine which adds spice, structure, and savory notes. This wine and its Tuscan counterparts are all wines that can be drunk young or with a little age. More moderately priced and more approachable than the DOCG wines made with Sagrantino, I was impressed with these wines throughout my visit to the area. The local sommeliers also worked hard promoting their region which I appreciated.