‘Montepulciano, the king of all wines.’ With these words, back in 1685, poet and scientist Francesco Redi celebrated the nectar of the Sienese hills. The Riserva di Vino Nobile di Montepulciano from Fattoria del Cerro carries on this legacy and brings it to the glass with a modern, linear and immediate style. The vineyards are located between 250 and 400 metres above sea level in Acquaviva di Montepulciano, on Pliocene soils rich in clay and sand that retain heat during the day and release freshness at night. The proximity of Valdichiana and Val d'Orcia creates significant temperature variations, creating ideal conditions for the development of clear aromas and fine tannins. A local anecdote tells that the farmers called these lands “sassi che nutrono” (stones that nourish), because the vines, forced to root deeply, produced naturally concentrated grapes. The Riserva di Fattoria del Cerro is made almost exclusively from Prugnolo Gentile, a biotype of Sangiovese that owes its name to the purple colour of its berries, similar to the skin of wild plums, or prugnolo. This clone, which has adapted over the centuries to the microclimate of Montepulciano, offers lively acidity and silky tannins, essential for ageing. The grapes are harvested in mid-September and selected plot by plot. Fermentation takes place at a controlled temperature, with daily pumping over and délestage. This is followed by post-fermentation maceration to extract colour and structure. Finally, the wine rests for at least another 18 months in oak barrels and another 6 months in glass before being released for sale, exceeding the minimum requirements of the appellation. Dense ruby colour with garnet reflections, the nose reveals ripe black cherry, sweet violet and sweet spices. The palate is full and persistent, supported by evident but well-integrated tannins and a fresh acidity that lengthens the finish. Perfect with roast beef or wild boar, this Riserva also pairs well with classic Florentine steak, pici pasta with Chianina ragù and aged Tuscan pecorino cheese.