Cantina Roccafiore ‘Melograno’
Over 20-years ago, Leonardo & Luca (father and son) bought vineyards in the rolling hills of the Umbrian countryside near the town of Todi. These rolling hills are so picturesque that I am always taken aback - letting the beauty and gratitude for it wash over me.
On the eastern bank of the Tiber River lies the ancient city of Todi, and just outside that, Cantina Roccafiore. The land surrounding Todi has historically been the land of Grechetto and Sangiovese with the Tiber feeding this fertile valley. The microclimate here is always fresh with breezes that perfectly ventilate rows and rows of vines, and the white clay and limestone marl soils show evidence of the presence of an ancient lake. It is the perfect place to make wine naturally - to honor the land and the old ways.
Leonardo & Luca’s relationship with the land is obvious in the way they cultivate these endemic varietals and shows a sense of pride in their identity and a respect of the land. Their goals are to make expressive, nuanced wines that pay homage to the landscape that forms their heritage. Wines that speak to the place they’re from while staying drinkable and approachable. We LOVE that!! And their farm hosts not only vineyards, but an abundance of life. Olive groves! Vegetable gardens! Hazel, cherry, and orange groves! A medicinal plants garden! A bunch of Cinta Senese piglets! What a dream!!
’Melograno’ is made from 100% Sangiovese. This bottling feels very much of this place. A delightful Umbrian Sangiovese that’s ready to bring a smile to your face and amp up your next meal. My go-to of late, fresh and juicy and delicious. It’d be fun with a red sauce, some meat, or just relaxing with a glass. Feels very well suited to any season - something to cozy up with but would also make a fun chillable red. I’m CRUSHING on this place and this wine!!
Luca says: ‘pleasing acidity, soft tannins, savory. Flavors of wild berries and plum, with a herbal note.’
The name Melograno means pomegranate, and an attractive savory sour character, reminiscent of the fruit, makes this wine beg for food or a fire pit with friends. I also find notes of sour cherry that is sooooo classic of Sangiovese from this magical place! Whatever notes you find, you are sure to be smiling while you sip and sip then maybe gulp a little cuz it’s that good!
Pour a glass, take a sip, close your eyes and imagine yourself sitting in the sun among the vines, soaking up the warmth, as happy as the little ladybug flitting across the bottle.