Arnaldo-Caprai, Montefalco Rosso (Umbria, Italy) 2015

 The wines from Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG are powerful and tannic red wines that need years, if not a decade, to be ready to drink.  If there were ever a need for a “rosso,” that is, a wine from a region that is ready to drink sooner (think Rosso di Montalcino) it is from this region.  Arnaldo-Caprai, is, without doubt, one the region’s great producers.  This Rosso is a fabulous introduction to the DOCG and to Arnaldo-Caprai’s wines.  A blend of Sangiovese (70%) and equal parts of Sagrantino and Merlot, it delivers good concentration and power without a hint of the aggressiveness that Sagrantino can impart.  There’s dark fruitiness combined with an earthy component.  It is a good choice today for a hearty pasta dish.  And a great bargain, as well.