LATITUDE
LONGITUDE
APPELATIONS
Morellino di Scansano DOCG, a Tuscan gem, captures the essence of its lush environment in every bottle. Nestled in the rolling hills of coastal Tuscany, not far from the embrace of the Tyrrhenian Sea, its vineyards bask in a sun-soaked Mediterranean climate, moderated by gentle sea breezes. The result is a viticultural haven, where vines thrive in a harmony of warm days and cool nights.
Sangiovese, affectionately termed "Morellino" in this region, reigns supreme here. This illustrious grape, deeply rooted in Italian wine heritage, finds a unique expression in Scansano. Its versatility is showcased in the two primary wines: the vibrant Rosso and the distinguished Rosso Riserva.
The Morellino di Scansano Rosso is a testament to Sangiovese's youthful side — fresh, fruity, and full of vivacity. A shorter aging process ensures its lively characteristics shine through, making it an immediate pleasure on the palate.
In contrast, the Rosso Riserva embodies the grape's aging potential. With a more extended maturation, often in oak barrels, this wine deepens in complexity. It boasts layered aromas, a robust structure, and a finish that lingers, echoing the nuances of its terroir.
Vineyard Hectares
WINERIES
GROWING DEGREE DAYS
Morellino di Scansano DOCG graces the southern part of Tuscany, a region renowned for its picturesque beauty and deep-rooted winemaking heritage. Ensconced between the hills and valleys of the Maremma, the DOCG is a tapestry of varying terrains that imbue its wines with distinct character.
As one traverses the landscape, the rolling hills rise and fall like gentle waves, their verdant curves caressed by the warm Tuscan sun. Olive groves and dense woodlands occasionally interrupt these vine-laden slopes, adding layers of green to the panoramic vistas. The proximity to the Tyrrhenian Sea introduces a maritime whisper to the air; its gentle breezes temper the summer heat, ensuring the grapes ripen steadily and harmoniously.
Adding further depth to this environment are the many rivers and streams meandering through the region. Their soft murmurs accompany the vines, enriching the soil with minerals and ensuring a delicate balance of moisture.
This marriage of land and sea, of hills and valleys, creates a unique terroir. The wines of Morellino di Scansano are born from this dynamic landscape, reflecting the rich tapestry of their origin in every sip. The very essence of the Maremma, with its rustic charm and natural elegance, is captured beautifully within the wines of this enchanting DOCG.
The climate of Morellino di Scansano DOCG is an intricate ballet of natural forces that converge to form the ideal stage for viticulture, especially for the esteemed Sangiovese grape.
Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, the region enjoys warm, sun-drenched days, ensuring the grapes achieve optimal ripeness. Yet, it's not just about the warmth. The Tyrrhenian Sea, lying in close proximity, plays a pivotal role in shaping the region's climate. Its vast expanse acts as a temperature modulator. Sea breezes sweep across the vineyards, especially during the afternoon, introducing a refreshing coolness that tempers the heat, and thereby preventing the grapes from over-ripening or becoming overly sugared. This maritime influence also brings with it a degree of humidity, beneficial in supporting vine health.
Nights in Morellino di Scansano bring a stark contrast. They're markedly cooler, a factor which is crucial in preserving the natural acidity of the grapes and in aiding the development of the complex aromas and flavors that the wines of this DOCG are celebrated for.
Finally, rainfall is moderate and typically concentrated in the winter and spring months. This pattern ensures that the vines have access to adequate water reserves in the soil during the hotter months, while also preventing the challenges of excessive rain during the harvest period.
The soils of Morellino di Scansano DOCG tell tales of geological history, each layer and mineral lending a unique voice to the wines produced here.
Sandy Loam: A prominent soil type in the region, sandy loam provides excellent drainage. The sandy components ensure that the roots of the vines do not become waterlogged, especially during rainy seasons, while the loam retains sufficient moisture to sustain the vines through the hotter months. Wines from these soils are often characterized by their elegance and aromatic finesse.
Clay: Patches of clay-rich soil dot the landscape. Clay has a knack for regulating water, releasing it slowly to the vine roots, which can be especially beneficial in drier years. This slow release of water ensures the vines are never overly stressed, leading to wines that are robust, with pronounced structure and depth.
Limestone: Limestone influences can be found interspersed throughout the region. This alkaline soil contributes to the wine’s freshness and vibrancy. The mineral content often imparts a distinct flinty or chalky note to the wines, adding complexity to their aromatic profile.
Silt: In areas where silt is dominant, the soil presents fine particles that can retain water well. This water retention capability can be a double-edged sword, beneficial in dry periods but challenging if there's excessive rain. However, when managed well, silt-heavy soils can produce wines with a softer, rounder mouthfeel.
Gravel and Rocky Outcrops: Scattered across the region, these soils ensure optimal drainage. The rocks and gravel, especially when sun-heated, radiate warmth during the cooler nights, aiding in the even ripening of the grapes. Wines from such soils often have a noticeable mineral undertone, combined with a concentrated fruit expression.
The Sangiovese grape, as it flourishes in the Morellino di Scansano DOCG, is a sight to behold. Bathed in the radiant Tuscan sun, its clusters present themselves with a mix of vigor and elegance. The berries are medium-sized, with a thin, yet robust skin that gleams in shades of deep blue-black. Their slightly elliptical shape hangs gracefully from the vine, hinting at the magic they encase within.
In the glass, Sangiovese from Morellino di Scansano unfolds a bouquet that's both complex and captivating. Aromas of ripe cherries and wild strawberries dance in harmony with undertones of dried herbs, leather, and a touch of earthy terracotta. On the palate, this grape truly sings. It brings forth flavors of juicy red fruits, interwoven with hints of tobacco, licorice, and sometimes, a whisper of cocoa. The wine's high acidity keeps it fresh and lively, while its tannic backbone promises longevity and evolution. Each sip is a reflection of its Tuscan home, embodying the warmth of the sun, the richness of the soil, and the soul of a region that reveres its winemaking traditions.
In the heart of Tuscany's sun-kissed landscapes, the wines of Morellino di Scansano DOCG emerge with expressive character. Rooted predominantly in the heritage of the Sangiovese grape, complemented by other select red varietals, these wines are the epitome of Tuscan elegance and earthiness.
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