Montalcino
Montalcino is a picturesque hilltop town in the Val d’Orcia located south of Siena. Oak trees, olive groves, cypress trees and vineyards dot the landscape. Here Tuscany’s most prestigious wine is produced; Brunello di Montalcino. The terroir is a maritime-alpine hybrid as a result of its location in the Orcia valley which runs from the sea to the Montalcino plateau and introduces warm and humid air to the centre of the Apennines and moderates the temperature.
Brunello is made from Sangiovese Grosso (a clone of Sangiovese). Brunello di Montalcino DOCG must age for a minimum of 5 years before it is released, 2 of which must be in oak barrels. Rosso di Montalcino is a young wine produced in the zone and is ready just one year after harvest.