Fratelli Pardi Sagrantino di Montefalco 2018

A crunchy and fruity red from 100% sagrantino. Full-bodied and tannic, but there’s some pretty dark fruit underneath it all. Spicy and salty, too. Chewy, yet focused and polished. Drinkable now, but better in 2024.

With its dark plum and blackberry aromas accented by clove, violets and cedar, the wine is deep and brooding on the nose. The palate is rich and full in body, with black cherry and cassis flavors and loads of sweet and savory spices that all pay homage to the firm and well-structured tannins that will give this wine a long life. Drink 2028–2045.

The 2018 Montefalco Sagrantino is smoky and slightly herbal on the nose, with dusty violet florals complemented by nuances of clove and black cherries. It’s deeply textural and soothing on the palate with an elegant wave of ripe red and black fruits which leaves a staining of silky tannins in their wake. The 2018 finishes structured yet balanced with purple-tinged inner florals and hints of plum and sweet tobacco. Well done. This may not have the power to last the ages, but it makes for a great option to drink over the medium term.