Umbria (60)

The History of Winemaking in Umbria

Umbria is located in central Italy, surrounded by the renowned wine regions of Tuscany, Marche, and Latium. This small region in the heart of Italy once stood in the shadow of the large wine region of Tuscany. However, this has changed in recent decades, as the world has long discovered it. In the fourth smallest wine region of Italy, about one third of the wine is produced compared to the neighboring Tuscany, but the wine is of the highest quality.

As early as 3000 years ago, Etruscans and Umbrians planted vines in this area. The first vineyards in the region were clearly established later by Benedictine monks. The most famous wine is the white Orvieto. However, the climate is not only ideal for white wines, so it is not surprising that today more red than white wines are produced in Umbria.

The Most Important Grape Varieties of Umbria

The Orvieto produced in the town of the same name is the most famous white wine of Umbria. It is a peach-colored, light, and crisp white wine that accounts for nearly 80% of the DOC wines produced in the region. Orvieto is made from the Procanico grape, a local variety of Trebbiano, and Malvasia. In addition to Procanico and Malvasia, the white grape varieties Verdello, Grechetto, and Drupeggio are also grown.

On the hills (the Colli) surrounding the capital Perugia, some of the best red wines in Umbria are grown, such as the robust Sagrantino di Montefalco wines made from the black Sagrantino grape. Sangiovese is the most widely cultivated red grape variety in Umbria. Additionally, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and relatively young varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are also cultivated.

Overview of Grape Varieties in Umbria:

• Procanico (Local variety of Trebbiano in Umbria)
• Malvasia
• Verdello
• Grechetto
• Drupeggio
• Sangiovese
• Sagrantino
• Colorinho
• Merlot
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Chardonnay
• Pinot Noir

Interesting Facts about Umbria

What is the climate like in Umbria?

Fundamentally, the climate of the region resembles that of Tuscany. Summers are warm and sunny, while winters are cool and sometimes rainy. In the areas around Lake Trasimeno in the east and the Tiber Valley, a milder, Mediterranean microclimate prevails, creating ideal conditions for viticulture, especially for red varieties. 

The temperature differences between day and night are somewhat larger in the higher altitudes, and the white wines produced here are characterized by an elegant and mineral character.

What soils are used for viticulture in Umbria?

The region features various soil types, typically consisting of calcareous clay and sandy soils. The different soil compositions have contributed to the diversity of wines produced in Umbria.

What are the top wineries in Umbria?

One of the leading wine producers in Umbria is Lungarotti. The Cantine Lungarotti was founded in the 1960s near Torgiano. On a vineyard area of 300 hectares, vines are grown for fresh white wines, full-bodied red wines, Spumante, and Vin Santo.

Castello della Sala Antinori is among the most famous and beautiful wineries in the region. On the vineyards of the medieval castle Castello della Sala, traditional Umbrian grape varieties such as Procanico and Grechetto were originally cultivated. Today, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Nero, and Chardonnay are also harvested on the 160 hectares. The Cervaro della Sala has been awarded the "Three Glasses" by Gambero Rosso multiple times.

In the historic Val di Chiana valley lies the Santa Cristina winery, founded in 1946 by the Antinori family. In the now modernized winery, high-quality red and white wines are produced from the combination of advanced technologies and tradition.

Purchase Umbria wines online at VINELLO

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