Wine Tasting in the Perugian Countryside – Cantina Goretti

There is nothing like a 5km walk to get your taste buds pumping for a wine tasting. Recently I stayed at the Perugia Farmhouse and as part of their ‘activities board’ they mentioned a wine tasting at a local winery just up the road from them for 10€ per person, so I thought why not. Plus I heard a rumor that there was a boutique beer and deli meat shop across from the winery – it was going to be a good day!

Azienda Agricola Goretti is set in amongst the rolling country fields just outside of the town of Perugia. It sits in the classification of DOC Colli Perugini. The first thing that caught my eye had to be the petrol pumps dispersing wine in the shop area, I presume this goes out to restaurants as house wine and for any customers who like to bring their own pitcher for refill. I can’t say that it gave me a lot of confidence for the 8 glass wine tasting that was ahead of me. I could however feel the headache coming on already…

The gorgeous 14th century tower, which stands on the property, is a true highlight and it is where all the wine tasting is held. An Italian Grandmother conducted the tasting; I still have no idea who she actually was within the winery as she spoke only Italian and my ‘I-talian’ is not so good, si. We had one lady in our group who could translate a bit for us however I have to admit once we got stuck into their 13% plus elixirs we were all fluently speaking and understating our own very special versions of Italian anyway.

We tried 7 wines altogether as well as either their grappa or brandy and of course we had to try the balsamic vinegar and olive oil that they make on the farm too. The highlights of the tasting had to be;

Grechetto DOC Colli Perugini – bright sunny yellow in the glass with beautiful intricate flavours of exotic Thai fruits and nuts, particularly almonds.

L’Arringatore DOC Colli Perugini – A blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Ciliegiolo grapes. It has a stunning ‘keep coming back for more’ nose with flavours of cherries and mocha on the palate with a nice tannic balance.

Sagrantino di Montefalco Le Mura Saracene – Montefalco is a DOCG region growing the exclusive Umbrian variety of Sagrantino. It is rich and full-bodied, a real powerhouse. Yet it is full of elegance and dominating sexiness – lets call it the red-head.

I was extremely impressed with their Sagrantino di Montefalco that I had to buy a bottle of the 2008 to take back to the farmhouse for dinner. That was of course after we picked up some of the boutique beer and deli pork products from across the road. Simply delicious and you can also taste test the ‘Khamen’ beer before you buy. Some of the beers are sold in black ceramic bottles, which are pretty funky. You can also buy all bits and pieces like pesto and jams at this superb little delicatessen.

If you’re heading to Perugia its a great way to spend an afternoon, and I also highly recommend staying at the Perugia Farmhouse. It’s only 5km out of the city – a 15minute bus ride or a pleasant hours walk. The rooms are comfy, the area is stunningly gorgeous and there is a really great social atmosphere.