The red grape variety probably originates from Italy. Synonyms are Sagrantino Rosso and Sagrantino di Montefalco.

According to one hypothesis, the variety was introduced to Umbria in the Middle Ages by Byzantine monks from Greece or by Franciscans from Asia Minor. The name, which is possibly derived from "sacro" (sacred), is also said to indicate this. According to another, unverifiable hypothesis, it may be a descendant of the ancient grape variety "Itriola" mentioned by Pliny the Elder (23-79).
The parentage of this presumably very old variety is unknown.
The late-maturing vine is susceptible to downy mildew (leaves), but resistant to downy mildew and powdery mildew (berries) as well as winter and spring frosts and rot. It produces dark ruby-red, tannin-rich red wines with aromas of cherries and mulberries, as well as ageing potential with suitability for barrique ageing.
![]()
Serious sources on the internet are rare - and Wine lexicon from wein.plus is one such source. When researching for my articles, I regularly consult the wein.plus encyclopaedia. There I get reliable and detailed information.
Thomas Götz
Weinberater, Weinblogger und Journalist; Schwendi