Progetto Morello

Creation and purpose

Progetto Morello was conceived by Roccapesta as an investigation into the identity of Scansano and its principal subject, Sangiovese. Its purpose is to seek the essential character of the local ecosystem within the Morellino di Scansano DOCG denomination and to translate that inquiry into three distinct single-vineyard expressions.

A denomination approaching maturity

The project emerged at a stage when Morellino di Scansano was described as a young denomination that had already achieved broad market recognition but was still moving from its initial definition toward full oenological maturity. This transition called for a clearer understanding of the denomination’s particular characteristics and potential, together with the articulation of a distinctive identity.

Progetto Morello is Roccapesta’s contribution to that process. It examines how differences among sites can define an authentic style for the denomination through three Sangiovese vineyards—Calestaia, Vigna Liuzza and I Gaggioli—whose elevations and soils differ markedly.

Progetto Morello focuses on the ecosystem of Scansano within the Morellino di Scansano DOCG denomination. Its three single vineyards form an elevation sequence from 250 to 450 metres above sea level and differ in soil composition.

Calestaia lies at 250 metres and has clay soil with a substantial coarse fraction. Vigna Liuzza rises to 300 metres, where clay is associated with iron-bearing minerals. I Gaggioli is the highest site at 450 metres and combines clay with schist. These site differences provide the physical framework for the project’s study of Sangiovese and the denomination’s distinctive character.

The grapes used by Roccapesta come exclusively from its own vineyards, which are tended by an in-house team. Vineyard work follows the natural rhythm of the seasons, reflecting the principle that wine quality is established before the fruit reaches the cellar.

After harvest, the grapes are selected manually. Fruit excluded from production is returned to the land, reducing waste and closing part of the material cycle within the estate.

All three Progetto Morello expressions are made from 100% Sangiovese and fermented in truncated-conical oak vats.

Calestaia subsequently matures for 36 months in 2,500-litre barrels, followed by 12 months of bottle rest. Vigna Liuzza and I Gaggioli each mature for 12 months in 2,500-litre barrels, followed by 12 months in bottle.

The wider Roccapesta cellar approach is deliberately restrained. Fermentations begin spontaneously with indigenous yeasts, and the wines are not filtered. Manual selection retains only the preferred grapes after harvest. Time is treated as a principal cellar tool, allowing the wines to clarify and mature without forceful intervention.

Progetto Morello is a research-led inquiry into the authenticity and originality of Scansano, Sangiovese and the Morellino di Scansano DOCG ecosystem. Its aim is not merely to establish a house style, but to help define a character rooted in the denomination’s own distinguishing features and potential.

The project rests on the study of soils, vine material and microclimates. Craft practice is combined with scientific research, while production decisions seek a balance among knowledge, attentive observation and simplicity.

In the cellar, the governing principle is minimal impact: intervene as little as possible and allow Sangiovese to develop without force. Spontaneous fermentation, indigenous yeasts, the avoidance of filtration and extended maturation express this approach. Tradition is treated as a means of understanding and respecting the raw material rather than as an imitation of the past.