Arnaldo-Caprai

Location:

Montefalco, Italy

In 1971, Arnaldo Caprai bought the Val di Maggio estate in Montefalco, in the region of Umbria, fulfilling his lifelong dream to produce a wine of his own and discover the potential of the local varieties—particularly Sagrantino, a native Grape that has grown in the region for over 400 years. The Montefalco region, an area rich in history and winemaking tradition, was historically known for its sweet wines, particularly Orvieto, a white wine, and Sagrantino, a red, made using the passito method, which helps concentrate sugars and balance the natural tannin of the grape.

In 1988, Arnaldo's son Marco Caprai took over managing the winery and brought with him a passion and determination to produce top quality wines from the region. Over the past decade, Marco's commitment has led to groundbreaking research and experimentation on clonal selection, new trellising systems, high density plantings and huge improvements in the quality of Sagrantino made as a dry wine. Today, the Arnaldo Caprai winery is the acknowledged leader in the production of top quality Sagrantino di Montefalco, a wine produced exclusively from Sagrantino, and along with numerous awards over the years, was Voted Winery of the Year 2006 from Gambero Rosso.

The winery, located in the area of Montefalco, holds approximately 370 acres of vineyards (136 are currently in production) and produces both red and white wines. Main white grapes being used include Grechetto, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc and red grapes, with Sagrantino being the leading variety, include Sangiovese, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The winery is currently collaborating with the University of Milan and the Parco Tecnologico dell' Umbria to further research and experiment with Sagrantino. While continuing their innovative approach both in the vineyards and the cellar, Arnaldo Caprai remains committed to the same goal they had 30 years ago —careful and constant work focused on excellence, research and innovation in the agronomic and enological sector, as well as communication of the culture and identity of the dynamic Montefalco region.