On the map of Tuscany, between the peaks of Mount Amiata and the Maremma coast, lies Montecucco, a territory that for years remained the best-kept secret of the most purist “Sangiovese lovers”. In particular, in Cinigiano stands the ColleMassari estate, which in this case has chosen to give voice to a single vineyard, Poggio Lombrone, home to old vines clinging to the soil. But let’s take it step by step. Montecucco benefits from a truly unique microclimate, where the cool currents descending from the extinct volcano of Amiata meet the sea breezes rising along the Ombrone valley. This temperature variation is a real “magic wand” that allows the grapes to ripen slowly, developing aromas that cannot be found elsewhere. The Riserva represents the flagship of the DOCG Montecucco. To bear this designation, the production rules are extremely strict and require extended ageing to ensure that Sangiovese expresses all its nobility. In the case of Poggio Lombrone, we are talking about 100% Sangiovese aimed straight at typicity, without international blends softening its proud and authentic character. After a strictly manual harvest, fermentation begins spontaneously thanks to indigenous yeasts. Everything takes place in small truncated cone-shaped wooden vats, where manual punch-downs are carried out to gently extract colour and tannins. But it is the ageing that makes the difference: the wine rests for a full 30 months in 40-hectolitre Slavonian oak casks. A crucial step that allows the wood to support the maturation without ever overpowering the fruit, letting time do its job at its own pace. Deep, dark ruby red, almost impenetrable, on the nose it is a continuous journey. It opens with clear notes of sour cherry and violet, typical of the grape variety, then expands into sweet spice and a mineral trail reminiscent of graphite. On the palate it is a true force of nature. Rich, juicy and incredibly well-balanced, thanks to a lively acidity that goes hand in hand with a dense yet silky tannic structure. The finish is extremely long, closing with a savoury note that perfectly cleanses the palate, leaving a memory of earth and woodland. At the table it calls for substantial dishes. An ideal match for a rare grilled Fiorentina steak or for “peposo all’Imprunetina”, where the long cooking of the meat and black pepper echo the wine’s spicy notes.