Biography
Scacciadiavoli is one of the oldest estates in the territory of Montefalco. The name derives from an old hamlet near the estate’s property, once inhabited by an exorcist (who “chased devils”, the meaning of the Italian name). The purchase of the property by Amilcare Pambuffetti, grandfather of current owners Amilcare junior, Francesco, and Carlo, dates from the middle of the last century. The cellar, built during the second half of the 19th century, is rationally organized and equipped with the latest modern technology; it represents a rare example of agro-industrial architecture of that period. The estate consists of 325 total acres, 88 of which are planted to vines, with a total annual production which will reach 200,000 bottles when all of the vineyards are in full production. The recently completed replanting and extension of the vineyard surface has been done with vine density of 5,000 vines per hectare, a decision which testifies to the commitment and intelligence with which excellence in quality has been placed as an essential objective. “Sola Fides” is the motto engraved on the frontispiece of the cellar and figures on the labels of the wines as well, a brief statement of the estate’s operating philosophy. It is a sentiment which characterizes rural society and expresses the desire to create and accomplish. It is the conviction that the soil rewards those who work it on a daily basis with products of true personality and quality. Scacciadiavoli firmly believes in the territory of Montefalco. The wines which are produced are the typical ones of the zone: Montefalco Rosso DOC and Grechetto Umbria IGT, plus the thoroughbreds of the cellar: first, the Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG which, in the dry version, ages fifteen months in small French oak barrels, six months in stainless steel tanks, and nine months in bottle. Intensely aromatic with notes of red fruit, blueberries, and blackberries, full and warm on the palate, balanced in its acidity and tannins, it is long and sustained right through to a finish and aftertaste which echo the initial sensations. A red wine for red meat, game, and cheese with some age. Second, the Montefalco Sagrantino Passito DOCG, 100% Sagrantino, made from grapes dried on straw mats and fermented in December or January after the harvest. A dense ruby red with an intriguing nose of blackberries, red berry fruit, and coffee, it is sweet, supple, and never cloying. A wine to sip, a wine for meditation.