Umbria, often referred to as the green heart of Italy, is a region of rolling hills, medieval towns, and a winemaking tradition that stretches back centuries. Despite being one of Italy’s smaller regions, Umbria is a treasure trove for wine lovers, producing distinctive wines that reflect the purity and authenticity of the land. With around 27,000 hectares of vineyards, the region maintains a balanced production, where about 60 percent of the wines are red and the rest white.
The climate and soils of Umbria are remarkably similar to those of neighboring Tuscany — warm, sunny days and cool nights provide excellent conditions for slow, even ripening of the grapes. The mineral-rich soils, ranging from clay and limestone to sand and marl, contribute to wines of great depth and character.
Umbria’s most famous white wine is Orvieto, a fresh and harmonious blend that has been admired since the time of the Etruscans. Among the red wines, Montefalco Rosso and Sagrantino di Montefalco stand out. The Sagrantino grape, native to this region, produces deeply colored, full-bodied wines with powerful tannins and remarkable aging potential — a true expression of Umbria’s wild beauty and strength.
One of the region’s most prestigious wineries is Castello della Sala, owned by the Antinori family. Nestled among the gentle hills near Orvieto, this historic estate is renowned for combining Umbrian tradition with refined winemaking innovation. Two of its most celebrated wines are the Cervaro della Sala, a masterful blend of Chardonnay and Grechetto that embodies elegance, complexity, and balance, and the Bramìto della Sala, a vibrant and expressive white wine that captures the freshness and minerality of the region. Both wines showcase the unique character of Umbria’s terroir and are benchmarks for Italian white wine excellence.
Today, Umbria continues to evolve as one of Italy’s most fascinating wine regions. From bold, structured reds to elegant, mineral-driven whites, its wines offer authenticity, balance, and a deep connection to the land. For those seeking Italian wines that combine tradition, nature, and craftsmanship, Umbria stands as one of the country’s most rewarding and expressive destinations.
