INSIDER'S PICK: 2021 TENUTA BELLAFONTE MONTEFALCO ROSSO 'POMONTINO' (Vinous 91points) $26.99

The region of Umbria sits between the world famous cities of Florence and Rome, and most people only take note of it as they pass through it from one city to the other. Largely rural and completely landlocked, it has missed out on a lot of the hype and notoriety bestowed on its neighbors, allowing it to be a mostly unspoiled 'bread basket' of central Italy. The wines here are very under-appreciated as well, especially compared to the notoriety Tuscan wines have accumulated over the centuries. Umbria's native red grape is Sagrantino, originally used mostly for making 'dried grape' wines, but now reaches its greatest heights around the town of Montefalco and their DOCG designated wines. The DOC designated Rosso wines will blend Sagrantino and Sangiovese that gives a wonderful window into the local style. Savory and a bit rustic on the aromas, with a dusty 'Old School' style nose of dried flowers, dark red fruits and hints of cedar. The presence of Sagrantino is most noticeable on the palate, where it has a bit more tannin than Sangiovese and a citric acidity note behind the dark fruits. As it opens up it gets more plump but keeps that classic energy all through the finish. This wants food, such as a hearty tomato-y stew or a classic ragu over pasta. ​

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