From the Vine: Lorenzo Mattoni: Crafting the Future of Montefalco Sagrantino

In the rugged hills of Montefalco, where the vines soak up both sunlight and centuries, winemaker Lorenzo Mattoni is reshaping the story of Sagrantino.

By Heather Dolen

With an approach grounded in precision, patience, and profound respect for the land, Mattoni is producing some of the most compelling wines emerging from Italy today.

What sets Mattoni apart isn’t flash or volume; it’s intention. Every decision, from how the vines are pruned to how the wines age, seem to reflect a value that authenticity is the most powerful statement a winemaker can make. He farms sustainably and allows fermentations to unfold naturally with native yeasts. Instead of relying on heavy oak to shape his wines, he ages them in large Slavonian barrels—which help soften Sagrantino’s formidable tannins while preserving its purity.

His Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG is a testament to that philosophy. Dark, structured, and aromatic, it opens slowly in the glass, revealing layers of blackberry, wild herbs, violets, and warm spice. It’s a wine built to evolve— not just over the course of an evening, but also over many years in bottle.

Meanwhile, “Dinamico” Rosso offers a more immediate window into Mattoni’s style, blending Sagrantino with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon to create a vibrant, expressive red that still carries the soul of Montefalco.

A dinner held at ‘ino restaurant in New York City recently featured an evening with Lorenzo, showcasing a curated selection of his wines, paired beautifully with dishes prepared by ’ino’s chef and owner, Jamie Kenyon. From the bright, vibrant Trebbiano through to the Sangrantino—the wines proved to be a perfect representation of the integrity and passion Lorenzo Mattoni
puts into his wine, while capturing the very heart of Montefalco—Precision dialed to perfection, and a complete joy to experience.

Chilled Sip Tips: Sip Like a Pro

Tasting Notes: Dense black fruit, plum skin, cocoa, and dried herbs wrapped in firm yet refined tannins—classic Sagrantino elevated by Mattoni’s finesse.
Pair It With: Osso Buco, truffle pasta, grilled lamb, or aged pecorino.

Try This: Lorenzo Mattoni Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG—his flagship, intensely terroir-driven expression.

Insider Move: Start with Mattoni “Dinamico” Rosso—approachable, energetic, and the perfect introduction before exploring pure Sagrantino.

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