Castello ColleMassari
Brand Description
ColleMassari is the most important and largest estate in the Montecucco appellation. The vineyards are located on the Montecucco hill, which gives the appellation its name. The vines on the Montecucco hill are the oldest Sangiovese vines of the DOCG (more than 60 years old).
Although it is a “new” DOCG, wine has been made in Montecucco since the Etruscans in the 8th century. Maria Iris Bertarelli and Claudio Tipa, who purchased the vineyard in 1998 to be the heart of the Montecucco DOC that they envisioned creating, continue this tradition. Montecucco is located between Montalcino and Scansano and benefits from microclimates similar to those of both regions. ColleMassari produced its first vintage in 2000.
Location of Vineyard
The Castello ColleMassari winery is located in Cinigiano in the foothills of Monte Amiata, about 1050ft above sea level. It is about 24 miles to the north-east of Grosseto in the DOC Montecucco, which is famous for its particularly favorable micro-climate. The Castello ColleMassari is not entirely a medieval castle. Its structure is more reminiscent of a fortified hamlet or even a grancia, a type of protected agricultural operation, founded by Cistercian Monks in the 8th century. During this era, they set up an agricultural system between Siena and the Maremma. The term massari, or massaro referred to a representative of an agricultural organization, an important part of which was the farmhouse, located in the center of the area.
Winemaking and Viticulture Philosophy
Integrity, quality and teamwork are the values that are upheld by the Tipa Bertarelli Family. They apply Italian passion and Swiss precision in crafting wines that represent top quality, history and identity of the region. The winery practices sustainable and natural methods in full respect of Nature. Their final pillar and belief is to protect and maintain the identity of Tuscany and its traditions. While innovating in the vineyard and cellar, their wines always reflect the tradition of the region.
Winery Profile
Winemaker: Luca Marrone
Total acreage under vine: 285
Founded: 1998
Production: 468000
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