Col d'Orcia

Col d'Orcia is a historic name in Montalcino that still represents the classic face of Brunello. The estate is located in the southwest part of the appellation, in a hilly area overlooking the Val d'Orcia. Always attentive to the environment, since 2010 the entire estate has been run under certified organic farming, also using biodynamic practices. Its origins date back to the late 19th century, when the Franceschi family purchased the lands of the Fattoria di Sant'Angelo in Colle. From this property, following hereditary bequests, the Col d'Orcia estate was born. Until the 1970s it was a mixed farm, with olive groves, arable land and a few hectares of vineyards. Only during the following decades did a restructuring begin that led to a gradual increase in the area under vine to today's 140 hectares, of which as many as 108 are devoted to the production of Brunello. The vineyards are located at an altitude of about 450 meters above sea level, with sunny exposure facing south. The microclimate tends to be Mediterranean, influenced by the presence of Mount Amiata, which bars the way to disturbances, and by the breezes of the Tyrrhenian Sea, which rise inland, ensuring constant ventilation of the rows. The soils are very suitable, especially for Sangiovese and red grapes. They are loose and stony soils, rich in limestone and with little clay. Thanks to these special conditions, the grapes reach perfect ripeness with rich aromas and allow for harmonious and elegant wines. All Col d'Orcia wines are made from grapes grown on the estate or on small estates of farms in the area. Selected clones of Sangiovese grosso and vines planted at high density with low production per plant ensure extraordinary grape quality. Harvests are carried out by hand picking the best bunches at full phenolic maturity. Grapes are further sorted in the winery on sorting tables before being sent to vinification. Fermentations take place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, with gentle maceration and extraction. The wines mature in large Slavonian and French oak barrels and complete aging in bottles. The entire production process is carried out with artisan care and passion, guaranteeing a level of quality of absolute excellence.