Terre de Trinci
Created in 1955, Terre de Trinci encapsulates the rich wine heritage of Umbria. Their vineyards stretch across the Umbrian region, each enjoying the unique soil compositions and microclimates that contribute to the distinctive character of their wines.
Driving up to their winery based in Foligno, nestled between the lush Umbrian hills, my first observation was that I was visiting a wine shop.
Yet step into this attractive structure and you’ll find a large winery within.
A brief tour revealed 1950s style tanks (still working well after nearly 75 years) and impressive barrels for aging the top-tier Sagrantino.
This cooperative business model has been the cornerstone of Terre de Trinci’s success. It ensures that all stakeholders, from the vineyard workers to the winemakers, are actively invested in the quality of the wine being produced.
Each member, regardless of the size of their vineyard, shares in the profits and has a say in the decision-making process. Sometimes this can be a challenge, especially since some of the older grape growers are not often eager to follow new advice. But a structure is in place to facilitate learning.
This democratic structure fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.
Terre de Trinci Wines
They produce a wide variety of wines sold at many different price points, encompassing both indigenous and international grape varieties. The star of their portfolio is the Sagrantino, a grape native to Umbria and the key ingredient in Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG.
Another hallmark of Terre de Trinci’s offerings is the Montefalco Rosso DOC, a blend of Sangiovese, Sagrantino, and Merlot. This wine displays the versatility and harmony that can be achieved when local and international varieties are expertly blended.
The entry-level white wines, many from the Grechetto grape, offer good quality at a fair price.
At Terre de Trinci, the winemaking process combines traditional techniques with innovative technology. Grapes are harvested by hand to ensure optimal ripeness, then processed in a state-of-the-art facility that allows for precise control over every stage of fermentation and aging.
Tourism
Terre de Trinci is also a hub for wine tourism. The winery offers tours and tastings, providing visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the winemaking process and a deep appreciation for the skill and passion that goes into each bottle.
Final Thoughts
Very impressive visit to this winery, producing a very good quality wine while being mindful of servicing their client members and also attracting and addressing the needs of their diverse trade buyers.
