Valdangius
Valdangius Winery: A Montefalco Gem Crafting Fine Sagrantino Wine
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Montefalco, Italy, the Valdangius winery has been quietly crafting some of the region’s most exceptional wines for decades. With a focus on the indigenous Sagrantino grape variety, Valdangius has established itself as a major player in the Montefalco wine scene. This article will delve into the rich history of the winery and explore the unique characteristics of its renowned Sagrantino wine.
A History Rooted in Tradition:
The history of the Valdangius winery is a testament to the passion and dedication of its founders, the Valdangius family. The winery was established in the early 20th century, at a time when Montefalco was still an undiscovered gem in the Italian wine world. The Valdangius family recognized the potential of the region’s terroir and climate, making it their mission to produce high-quality wines that would stand the test of time.
Over the years, the Valdangius winery has expanded and evolved, embracing modern technology while remaining true to its traditional roots. The family has maintained a strong connection to the land, using sustainable viticulture practices to ensure the health of their vineyards for future generations.
Central to the winery’s success is the indigenous Sagrantino grape variety. A thick-skinned, late-ripening grape, Sagrantino is known for its exceptional tannic structure and ability to produce age-worthy wines. The grape thrives in the Montefalco region, where the combination of clay and limestone soils, warm days, and cool nights provide the ideal growing conditions for this unique variety.
The Valdangius winery has dedicated itself to mastering the art of Sagrantino winemaking, focusing on the production of two distinct styles – the robust, age-worthy Sagrantino di Montefalco and the fragrant, easy-drinking Montefalco Rosso.
Sagrantino di Montefalco:
The flagship wine of the Valdangius winery is the Sagrantino di Montefalco, a powerful and complex red wine that showcases the full potential of the Sagrantino grape. Made from 100% Sagrantino, this wine is aged for a minimum of 30 months, with at least 12 months in oak barrels, before being bottled.
The result is a wine with deep ruby-red color, intense aromas of dark fruit, spice, and earthy notes, followed by a full-bodied palate with firm, yet velvety tannins. The Valdangius Sagrantino di Montefalco has the potential to age gracefully for decades, making it a highly sought-after wine for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Montefalco Rosso:
In addition to the flagship Sagrantino di Montefalco, Valdangius also produces a Montefalco Rosso, a more approachable and versatile red blend that features Sagrantino as a key component. This wine is typically composed of 70% Sangiovese, 15% Sagrantino, and 15% Merlot, offering a perfect balance of fruit, acidity, and tannin.
The Montefalco Rosso from Valdangius showcases the winery’s ability to create a harmonious and elegant wine that can be enjoyed in its youth, but still possesses the structure for moderate aging. With its bright red fruit, soft tannins, and lively acidity, this wine is a perfect match for a wide range of dishes, from pasta to grilled meats.
Final Thoughts
Very grateful to visit this small family winery – “Mama” even made me pasta for lunch!
Delicious with the wines.
