With the Acquisition of an Estate in Montalcino
Carpineto has conquered the most prestigious appellations in Tuscany with the recent acquisition of 53 hectares in Montalcino. Throughout the years, the winery worked very closely with the previous landholders to produce their acclaimed Brunello di Montalcino. They had been in talks to purchase the vineyards for the last several years, but the deal was made official in early 2015.
Situated at an altitude of 450 meters above sea level, Carpineto’s Montalcino estate is one of the highest in the appellation. Located west of the picturesque hillside village of Montalcino, the sedimentary soil is composed of galestro, or schist, and clay, originating in the Eocene era (15 million years ago). Ten hectares are planted to 100% Sangiovese Grosso using the unilateral cordon training method at a density of more than 5,000 vines/ hectare. The vines enjoy northern exposures and are surrounded by thick woods which provide protection from the warm and humid westerly winds that arrive from Maremma.
Carpineto’s viticultural and winemaking teams have been working diligently to bring the vineyards and cellar up to their high standards and will continue to do so over the next few years. The vineyards are dry-farmed and pruned to drastically reduce yields ultimately resulting in the highest quality fruit at harvest. Carpineto strives to protect biodiversity by adhering to a strict sustainability code. State-of-the-art, temperature-controlled, stainless steel tanks have been installed, as well as new, modern winemaking equipment including pumps, presses, and destemmers. Additionally, new oak aging vessels were purchased.
“We’re excited to have acquired this unique estate. This completes our project of being in full control of premium estates in the most important Tuscan appellations: Chianti Classico, Vino Nobile, Brunello, and Maremma,” says proprietor Antonio Zaccheo Jr. “We could not have asked for a better harvest than 2015, a 5-star vintage in the making, to start out of the gate!”
Now that Carpineto has obtained ownership they will begin to produce a Rosso di Montalcino. The first vintage release of this wine is 2013. Carpineto Rosso di Montalcino is available for sale in the United States through Opici Wines at a national SRP of $28.
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About Opici Wines
Named “Importer of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast Magazine, Opici Wines is an importer and producer of fine wines, artisanal spirits, and crafts beers from around the globe. The portfolio consists of more than 50 brands and is available nationally through distributor partners. Opici Wines has been family-owned and operated since it was founded in 1913. For more information, visit www.opiciwines.com.
Media Contact
Claudia Centola-Franey
centolac@opici.com
