Arnaldo Caprai is the acknowledged leader in the production of top quality Sagrantino di Montefalco, a wine produced exclusively from grapes of Sagrantino, the variety that has been growing in the region of Montefalco for more than four hundred years. Marco Caprai strongly believed in the great opportunities that could come from such a long tradition and he translated this heritage with a modern and innovative approach. Research and experimentation are at the heart of innovation, so Arnaldo Caprai practice them both in the vineyards and in the cellar. The methods applied to obtain top quality grapes include different types of experimental training systems and a stable, natural and artificial cover cropping. Moreover, a more rational approach in the plant protection processes and a reduced use of nitrogenous fertilizers, together with the choice of the most suitable location for Sagrantino and all the varieties grown in the estate has proved fundamental for the production of good quality grapes.
Wine characteristics
According to wine legislation, the typical cultivation area for Sagrantino di Montefalco includes the Municipality of Montefalco and part of the municipalities of Bevagna, Gualdo Cattaneo, Castel Ritaldi and Giano dell'Umbria, all situated in the province of Perugia. This grape is used in the production of the Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG (controlled designation of origin guaranteed); blended with other grapes, it produces Rosso di Montefalco DOC (controlled designation of origin). This wine is very intense ruby with purple reflections, the aroma is very persistent with typical accents of blackberries, plum and earth that are perfectly bound to the vanilla given by the wood. The taste is potent, smooth and velvety. Sagrantino is a wine that should be aged at least 10-15 years. It can also be made into a dessert wine after the grapes wither.
Montefalco 2015: the new Green Revolution
The project called “New Green Revolution” was created in 2010, when the Grand Cru Association of Montefalco decided the adoption of a new innovative production practice, to improve the quality of products and to reduce the environmental impact of its production process. The association's goal is to create an ensemble of rules, as supplement of those already present. Technical, agronomical, social and economical themes are the basis of the project, that try to make it as sustainable and competitive as possible; moreover its correct application will be monitored by an independent organization. New Green Revolution will provide results in the medium to long-term time horizon, contributing in this way to the 2015 Universal Expo of Milan, extraordinary event concerning food sectors.
