Wines Montefalco Petriccia - Riserva - 2018

Viniou Reviews

Petriccia Montefalco DOC Cuvée Riserva 2018 is a red wine hailing from the heart of the Umbria region in central Italy. Crafted as a cuvée riserva, this blend draws on the distinctive character of Montefalco’s indigenous grapes, most notably Sagrantino, often joined by Sangiovese and other local varietals. The 2018 vintage benefitted from a balanced season, granting ripe tannins and concentrated fruit. Although details of the precise vinification are not provided, riserva wines from the Montefalco DOC standardly undergo extended oak ageing, resulting in a complex palate with pronounced structure, layers of dark fruit, spices and earthy undertones.

Umbria, famously known as “the green heart of Italy”, is a landlocked region with rolling hills, medieval towns, and a rich winemaking tradition dating back to the Etruscans. Montefalco sits at the centre of this landscape and is especially celebrated for the robust and ageworthy Montefalco Sagrantino. The region is marked by a continental climate: warm, dry summers and cool winters, with significant diurnal temperature variation – ideal for achieving ripeness while preserving acidity. Soils here are generally clay-limestone, promoting good drainage and imparting both structure and minerality to the wines.

Given its substantial body and firm tannic backbone, this Montefalco Riserva is best matched with equally robust fare. Traditional Umbrian cuisine is a natural pairing: think slow-cooked lamb in herbs, roast wild boar, or mature pecorino cheese. Dishes such as pappardelle with wild mushroom ragù or grilled Chianina beef showcase the wine’s earthy and savoury notes. For a harmonious meal, try it alongside truffle-infused specialities that echo the region’s gastronomy.

To fully appreciate this wine’s complexity, decant for at least one hour before serving. The ideal tasting temperature is 16-18°C. In this range, you’ll experience the depth of its fruit, the nuance of its spice, and the elegance of its structure, making for a deeply satisfying drinking experience.