Montalcino and its wines

Montalcino, in the province of Siena, in Tuscany, is one of the most prestigious wine-growing areas in Italy and in the world. This hilly area is famous for the production of Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, one of the most iconic and long-lived red wines, made exclusively from Sangiovese Grosso grapes. The unique terroir, marked by soils rich in galestro, alberese and clay, together with a temperate climate with wide day-night temperature swings, creates the ideal conditions for producing structured, complex wines suited to ageing.

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What is Montalcino?

**Montalcino** is a municipality in the Val d’Orcia, in Tuscany, known for its winemaking tradition and its charming medieval town. The **Brunello di Montalcino DOCG** appellation, created in 1966 and awarded DOCG status in 1980, is a byword for excellence and represents one of the greatest expressions of **Sangiovese**. The area, with its vineyards lying between 120 and 650 metres above sea level, is a paradise for lovers of wine and wine tourism.

Characteristics of the Wines of Montalcino

1. Structure and Complexity: Full-bodied red wines, with well-defined tannins and great aromatic depth.
2. Longevity: Brunello di Montalcino is one of the longest-lived Italian wines, able to evolve for decades.
3. Expression of the Terroir: Every wine reflects the unique characteristics of the soils and the microclimate of the area.

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Places of Interest in Montalcino

1. The Village of Montalcino

A charming medieval village with a historic fortress and numerous wine bars where you can taste the great wines of the area.

2. Sant’Antimo Abbey

One of the most striking monasteries in Tuscany, set among vineyards and olive groves.

3. The Montalcino Wine Route

A wine tourism route through the best wineries in the area, offering tastings and guided tours.

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Characteristics of the Wines of Montalcino

Colour

• Brunello di Montalcino: Intense ruby red, turning towards garnet with age.
• Rosso di Montalcino: Bright red with purple reflections in the younger wines.
• Moscadello di Montalcino: Golden yellow with amber shades in passito wines.

Aromas

• Fruity: Notes of cherry, plum and ripe berries.
• Floral: Hints of violet, typical of Sangiovese.
• Spicy: Hints of vanilla, tobacco, leather and black pepper in aged wines.

Palate

• Structured and Lingering: Brunello di Montalcino offers well-integrated tannins and a long, harmonious finish.
• Fresh and Balanced: Rosso di Montalcino is more approachable and versatile, with a pleasant acidity.
• Sweet and Enveloping: Moscadello di Montalcino is aromatic and velvety.

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Typical Grape Varieties of Montalcino

Black Grape Varieties

• Sangiovese Grosso: The exclusive grape variety of Brunello di Montalcino, capable of expressing great elegance and longevity.

White Grape Varieties

• Moscato Bianco: Used for the production of Moscadello di Montalcino, a sweet, aromatic wine.

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Why Choose a Wine from Montalcino?

A wine from **Montalcino** is the result of a centuries-old tradition, an extraordinary terroir and the passion of local producers. Perfect for accompanying important dishes such as **bistecca alla fiorentina, game, braised meats and aged cheeses**, Montalcino wines represent the very best of Italian viticulture.