Col d'Orcia

The Col d'Orcia winery is a historic name in the Montalcino area that still today represents the classic face of Brunello wine. The estate is located in the south-west part of the denomination, in a hilly area overlooking the Orcia Valley. Since 2010, the entire estate has been running under a certified organic farming regime, including the use of biodynamic methods. Its origins date back to the end of the 19th century, when the Franceschi family purchased the lands of the Fattoria di Sant'Angelo in Colle estate. The Col d'Orcia winery was born from this estate, following a series of hereditary bequests. Until the 1970s it was a mixed agricultural business, with olive groves, arable land and a few hectares of vineyards. Only in the following decades did restructuring begin, leading to a gradual increase in the surface area of the vineyards to the current 140 hectares, 108 of which are dedicated to the production of Brunello.

The vineyards are located at an altitude of about 450 metres above sea level, with a sunny south-facing exposure. The microclimate tends to be Mediterranean, and is influenced by the presence of Mount Amiata, which prevents the passage of strong winds, and by the breezes of the Tyrrhenian Sea, which rise inland, ensuring constant ventilation of the vineyards. The soils are very suitable, especially for Sangiovese and other red grapes. They are loose and stony, rich in limestone and with little clay. Thanks to these particular conditions, the grapes reach perfect ripeness with rich aromas, resulting in harmonious and elegant wines.

All of Col d'Orcia wines are produced with grapes grown either on the estate or on small estates in the area. The choice of carefully selected clones of red Sangiovese and vineyards planted at a high density with low production per plant ensure an extraordinary quality of grapes. The harvest is carried out by hand, picking the best bunches at full phenolic maturity. The grapes are then carefully sorted in the cellar on tables before being ready for vinification. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, with gentle maceration and extraction. The wines mature in large Slavonian oak casks and French oak barriques, and complete their ageing in the bottle. The entire production process is carried out with care and artisanal passion, guaranteeing an outstanding level of quality.