Scacciadiavoli Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG 2016
(Umbria, Italy) - [WS 92] [VM 92] [WA 91] [JS 91]
Regular price $85.00 Sale price $49.97 Save $35.03
Founded in 1884, Cantina Scacciadiavoli, “cast out the devils”, takes its name from a 19th century exorcist who lived in the small village bordering the vineyard. He was known to use the wines while performing his exorcist ritual of ridding poor souls of demons. The estate was built as a complex and modern wine “factory,” which today spans 130 hectares, 40 of which are vineyards. The vines cover a hill in the heart of the Montefalco appellation, divided between the three provinces of Gualdo Cattaneo, Giano dell’Umbria, and Montefalco.
The winery consists of four vertical levels built into the hill, allowing for the use of gravity throughout production. The grapes arrive from the vineyards directly at the highest level then move down to the second level by gravity flow to be fermented and vinified in wood or stainless steel vats. The ground and underground floors are used to age the wines. The Pambuffetti family has owned and operated Scacciadiavoli since 1954.
Vinification
3-4 weeks in 100 hL French oak vats. The temperature is controlled and maintained under 30° C throughout the alcoholic fermentation process.
Aging
Aged 50% in barrels (of which 15% new) 50% in large tanks made from French oak for 24 months. After bottling, the bottles are further aged in the cellar for a minimum of 12 months.
Ratings & Reviews
92 Points - Wine Spectator Magazine:
Pungent smoke and tobacco notes on the nose transition to sweet dried cherry and raspberry fruit flavors on the palate in this full-bodied red. Dense tannins show a creamy edge, knitting them more easily to the fruit flavor, citrus peel acidity and accents of fig cake, loamy earth and ground white pepper. Grippy finish. Best from 2023 through 2030. 3,000 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.
92 Points - Vinous:
Blackberries, plums, sweet mint, cedar and hints of sour citrus form a deeply captivating display as the 2016 Montefalco Sagrantino blossoms in the glass. Its silky textures wash across the palate with rosy red fruits and mineral tones, lifted and energized by bright acidity. This finishes long and structured yet also incredibly fresh and floral, as nuances of licorice and autumnal spice slowly taper off. The 2016 is a harmonious effort that is already quite likeable, but it should also excel through medium-term cellaring. (Drink between 2022-2030)
91 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Wine Advocate:
The 2016 Montefalco Sagrantino draws its fruit from 30-year-old vines in a seven-hectare plot with southwest exposures. This wine offers plump fruit and modern styling that is achieved thanks to careful fermentation and aging in oak. The wine rests in large casks for two years. Dark cherry, spice and barbecue smoke cede to relatively softer Sagrantino tannins and an integrated 15% alcohol content. 2022 - 2028
91 Points - James Suckling:
Blackcurrants and berries with hints of dried apple and fresh cumin seeds. Medium body with a bright, fruit and mineral palate and lightly chewy tannins. Drink now.