Sergio, father of the winery's current owner, Fabrizio, chose a farmhouse in the 1970s complete with a vineyard and olive grove nestled on the hills facing Cortona. About 20 years later, the purchase of a new piece of land expanded the size of the winery to its current dimensions and laid the groundwork for the initiation of modern winemaking practices. The more recent history of the winery begins with Fabrizio, who's aided by his wife Alessandra in managing the operations. It was he who uprooted the old sangiovese and trebbiano vineyards and gradually replanted new ones. The focus has primarily been on syrah, although there are also small quantities of viognier. The Cortona Syrah Il Castagno '20 once again lands Tre Bicchieri. It pours a clear color, the prelude to gorgeous aromatic complexity on the nose, with hints of pepper and aromatic herbs accompanied by fruity scents, mainly currants and raspberries. Then on the palate it has vigor, lovely harmony, with fine tannins and a relaxed finish. The Castagnino '22 proves pleasant, with a subtle bouquet, floral notes of violet, elegant structure, and a fresh, clean final note.
