About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
Only exceptional harvests are selected for this Riserva. The fruit comes from a rigorous selection within Castello Romitorio’s oldest vineyards in northern Montalcino. Individual blocks are monitored throughout the vegetative cycle; selected clusters receive particular attention so that the grapes reach consistent, optimal ripeness. The vineyards used for the 2019 release were planted in 1987.
Grapes
100% Sangiovese.
Vinification
The clusters are harvested meticulously by hand. Selection is also manual, both before and after destemming. Fermentation takes place in stainless-steel tanks at controlled temperature. A short cold maceration precedes maceration at a higher controlled temperature. Malolactic fermentation develops naturally, after which the wine rests so that it separates from the lees.
Ageing
The wine matures in oak for at least 24 months. Following bottling, it remains in the estate’s temperature-controlled cellars until release.
Technical data
The 2019 production amounted to 6,306 bottles. Earlier published production figures are 6,300 bottles for 2016 and 7,456 bottles for 2015. The published alcohol figure for 2016 is 15% vol.
Tasting profile
The 2019 has been described as bright ruby red and medium-full in body. Its aromatic range includes violet, magnolia, hawthorn, jasmine, acacia, cherry, plum, raspberry and currant, alongside liquorice, smoke, spice, toasted almond, grilled herbs, cedar, clove and mineral or iron-like notes. The palate combines ripe fruit with juicy acidity and ripe, velvety to fine-grained tannins. It is harmonious and texturally rich, finishing long with floral, savoury, saline, mineral, citrus and lightly bitter-herbal nuances.
Serving and pairing
The 2019 may be decanted for drinking now or cellared for several more years. Published windows include 2027–2045 and 2031–2040.
Vintage notes
The Riserva is made only in outstanding years. Since the estate’s establishment in 1984, ten vintages had been released when the present description was prepared.
The 2019 combines floral and red- to dark-fruit aromas with spice, smoke, herbs and mineral notes. It is characterized by vibrant acidity, refined tannins and a persistent finish. Production was 6,306 bottles.
The 2016 showed lavender, violet, black cherry, cedar, mint and mineral notes, combining density with lift and a fine tannic structure. It was selected from two Brunello lots—one tonneau and one large cask—and 6,300 bottles were produced.
The 2015 displayed cherry, blackberry, plum, iron, tobacco, floral and mineral tones, with vibrant acidity, polished tannins and a long fruit-and-savoury finish. Production totaled 7,456 bottles.
Label / history
The white label reproduces a small acquaforte made by Sandro Chia in the late 1970s, among his earliest figurative works. It depicts a young man carrying a walking stick. Blending realistic and surreal elements, the image represents wisdom, knowledge, perseverance, patience, tradition and beauty—qualities associated with the production of this Riserva.