Paolo Bea Sagrantino Secco 'Vigneto Cerrete' 2011

$161

Italy : Umbria : Montefalco : Cerrete

Sagrantino

The Cerrete vineyard is perhaps the greatest combination of height and exposition in the appellation. The soil is similar to “Vigneto Pagliaro”, the other prime source of Sagrantino grapes for the estate, but the higher elevation and location above the cooler valley situation of Pagliaro mean the microclimate for Cerrete is a few degrees warmer, with slightly lower humidity. Fermentation begins naturally after a 45-day maceration, then the wine spends a year in steel tanks, before resting for 43 months in large oak barrels. The resulting wine is intense in nearly every aspect, with a deep violet color, robust tannins, and power that announces itself from the first aromas through the persistent finish. Despite all of this intensity, the wine is not heavy, as the terroir provides lift and elegance that enchants the senses. Only 3933 bottles were produced.