Col d’Orcia

One of Montalcino’s largest producers, Col d’Orcia’s 144 hectares of vines ramble over the hills beneath Sant'Angelo in Colle. It has been in the hands of the Cinzano family since 1973 and guided by the Count Francesco Marone Cinzano for over three decades. Besides achieving organic certification for the entire estate, he is a leader in research and development, and a tireless advocate for biodiversity. Today he is supported by his youngest son Santiago who also heads up the family’s latest project a vintage-specific, single plot Brunello under the brand name CMC.

As for Col d’Orcia’s wines, they are traditionally crafted with a long stint in large oak casks. However, there is modern and enlightened thinking behind them. They evoke the south without being overripe or jammy and have a proven cellaring capacity. Even the Rosso di Montalcino is surprisingly ageworthy. Of the two single vineyard Brunello, Poggio al Vento (made since 1982) sits at the top of the range.

The estate boasts an extensive library going back to 1962 - a rare treasure in Montalcino and one that the family generously shares. Col d’Orcia is also one of a small handful of producers that still makes Moscadello di Montalcino – the historical wine of the zone long before Brunello was born.

It is easy to get distracted by Montalcino’s up-and-comers, but Col d'Orcia should not be overlooked.