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Honoring Arnaldo Caprai: The Enduring Influence of Montefalco's Sagrantino

Update Celebrating a Legacy in Italian Wine The wine world mourns the loss of Arnaldo Caprai, a visionary vintner who dedicated his life to resurrecting the nearly extinct Sagrantino grape in central Italy’s Umbria. With his passing at age 92 on January 4, 2026, Caprai leaves behind a remarkable legacy of passion and innovation, reflected in the thriving wine culture of the Montefalco region. Revitalizing the Sagrantino Grape Caprai’s journey began in textiles before he acquired a 108-acre estate in 1971 and transformed it into a leading winery. Under his guidance, Sagrantino evolved from a forgotten variety used mainly for sweet wines to a robust red celebrated for its complexity and aging potential. Today, over 90% of the world’s Sagrantino grapes are grown in Umbria, a testament to Caprai’s relentless pursuit of excellence. A Community of Wine Enthusiasts Caprai was not just a founder; he was a community builder. Fellow vintner Giampaolo Tabarrini reflects on how Caprai’s collaborative spirit fostered a sense of pride among Montefalco producers. He pushed for collective recognition, believing that the region’s reputation was intertwined with shared success. This ethos resonates in trends that support local boutique wine bars, cozy spots that often feature such collaboratives in their offerings. Innovation in Vineyard Practices The Caprai family's commitment to pioneering grape cultivation paved the way for more refined Sagrantino wines. Marco Caprai, Arnaldo’s son, continues his father’s legacy, integrating advanced vineyard techniques and genetic research to elevate Sagrantino’s character. These practices align with growing consumer expectations for quality and transparency in winemaking, reinforcing the appeal of wine bars with curated wine lists sourced from mindful producers. The Future of Montefalco Sagrantino As the Montefalco Sagrantino gains international acclaim, its unique identity mirrors that of other widely respected Italian wines. The future of this varietal lies in the hands of dedicated producers like Marco Caprai, who maintain a vision that goes beyond the local market. They aim to position Montefalco Sagrantino as a global contender, attracting wine enthusiasts to explore their exciting portfolios in local wine bars. In celebrating Arnaldo Caprai’s achievements, we recognize not only his contributions to Italian viticulture but also the rich narratives behind every bottle of Sagrantino. As consumers discover these stories in local wine bars, they connect not only with the wine but also with the heritage and community it embodies. Discover the best wine bars near you that curate selections from pioneering estates like Arnaldo Caprai’s, and enjoy a taste of this historic variety.