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WINES OF CENTRAL ITALY
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Umbria
Umbria is named for the ancient Umbri tribe that inhabited the area. Historically one of Italy’s least-
populated areas, Umbria has remained true to its roots. The region still has less than one million
inhabitants, and, as such, is something of an unspoiled gem in the Appennine Peninsula. Hundreds
of small medieval towns are scattered around the area, each of which is largely based on local
agriculture and tourism.
Although Umbria has two DOCGs, it is most known for its Orvieto DOP. The two DOCGs are Sagrantino
di Montefalco DOCG and Torgiano Rosso Riserva DOCG. Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG is produced
from 100% Sagrantino in the area surrounding the town of Montefalco. These wines may be dry
or passito-style, and are always at least two and a half years old by the time they hit the market,
characterized by sweet, dark fruits, intense ripeness, and great ageability. Torgiano Rosso Riserva
DOCG is produced from a minimum 70% Sangiovese, in the area between Torgiano and Perugia. At
the time of its release, the resulting wine must be at least three years old. These wines are famous for
their vinous gaminess that smoothes with age. Its refreshing, easy-to-drink white wines made from
a combination of Trebbiano and Grechetto from the Orvieto DOP are one of the area’s great prides.