“The Maremma you don’t expect”. If, when thinking of Maremma, you only picture beaches and sun-drenched plains, tasting this Montecucco Riserva by ColleMassari will make you change your mind instantly. We are in Cinigiano, in the heart of a land nestled between the slopes of Mount Amiata and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Here, nature is still in charge, and the Castello di ColleMassari has been its silent guardian since the 14th century. The vineyards benefit from constant ventilation descending from the mountain, keeping the grapes healthy and concentrated. The soil is a mosaic of sandstone and clay, with sun exposure that allows for slow and deep ripening of the grapes. Here, organic farming is not a marketing choice but a necessity to respect such a balanced and precious ecosystem. The Montecucco DOC appellation has a unique personality, thanks precisely to the proximity of Mount Amiata. And as a Riserva, this wine has undergone a longer-than-average ageing process, gaining that complexity and structure that only time can give to those who know how to wait. The blend is a tribute to tradition with a touch of modernity. Sangiovese provides the backbone and acidity, making up 80%. Ciliegiolo adds a touch of juicy fruit and roundness, while Cabernet Sauvignon, in a small 10% proportion, contributes colour and an even more enveloping tannic texture. A perfect balance, where each variety plays its part in creating a harmonious whole. Vinification takes place in stainless steel tanks and small wooden vats, allowing indigenous yeasts to guide spontaneous fermentations. Skin contact is extended, up to 3–4 weeks. The wine is then aged in wood for at least 18 months, followed by further bottle ageing. In the glass, the impact is immediately intense. On the nose, it opens with notes of ripe red fruits such as sour cherry and plum, followed by hints of Mediterranean scrub and sweet spices. On the palate, this is a wine with real substance: tannins are fine and well polished. Softness is balanced by freshness, making the sip agile despite its important structure. The aromatic persistence is fragrant, leaving a clean memory of undergrowth and liquorice. Try it with pasta with wild boar ragù or roast pork with herbs (Tuscan style). Naturally suited also to accompany cheeses such as a medium-aged Pecorino Toscano DOP.