Montevertine

Montevertine stands as an emblem of pure, traditional winemaking in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, nestled within the picturesque hillside village of Radda in Chianti. This esteemed winery, having emerged on the Italian viticulture scene in the early 1970s, sits among the rolling hills and cypress-lined paths iconic to the region, offering spectacular views and an authentic Tuscan wine experience.

The winery's roots trace back to 1967, when Sergio Manetti, originally a steel manufacturer, purchased the Montevertine estate as a vacation home. Interestingly, it wasn't long before Manetti's passion for wine took over, transforming the property into a dedicated winery with the first vintage released in 1971. Sergio Manetti's dedication to quality and tradition became a guiding philosophy for Montevertine, and his legacy endures, with his son, Martino Manetti, now steering the ship.

Montevertine's philosophy is evident in both the vineyards and cellars. Their commitment to Sangiovese, the quintessential grape of Chianti, shows an unwavering belief in the potential of the indigenous vine to produce world-class wines. The estate eschews the use of international grape varieties, placing its trust in the local Sangiovese, Canaiolo, and Colorino varietals to craft its distinguished lineup of wines.

The vineyards at Montevertine are meticulously tended to, with organic farming practices being employed to ensure the health and balance of the vineyard ecosystem. The estate spans over 18 hectares of vines which are planted in limestone-rich soils, benefiting from the well-draining terrain and the microclimate that encourages both ripeness and acidity, resulting in wines with depth and complexity.

The winemaking process at Montevertine adheres to the principle of minimal intervention. Following a careful hand-harvesting of grapes, the fermentation process occurs naturally with indigenous yeasts. Aging takes place in Slavonian oak barrels, with the flagship wine "Le Pergole Torte" seeing time in French oak as well, gaining structure and finesse without overshadowing the intrinsic character of the Sangiovese grape.

Visiting Montevertine is an intimate experience, with a sense of tranquility and timelessness pervading the estate. The stone-built winery and aging cellars appear as though carved from the very landscape they inhabit, seamlessly blending traditional architecture with the natural environment. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the beauty of the vine-covered terraces and the old-world charm that the estate embodies.

Montevertine's wines, including the revered "Le Pergole Torte," "Montevertine," and "Pian del Ciampolo," are a true reflection of the terroir and the artisanal approach to winemaking that the Manetti family espouses. Each bottle tells a story of the meticulous care in the vineyard, the patience in the cellar, and the legacy of a winery that has become a standard-bearer for authentic, terroir-driven Chianti wines.

For aficionados of fine wine, Montevertine offers a taste of Tuscany that is both grounded in tradition and elevated by the pursuit of excellence—a must-visit destination on any luxury wine tour itinerary. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a passionate enthusiast, the wines and welcoming atmosphere at Montevertine will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.