History

According to some, the name Morellino comes from the local nickname given to a clone of Sangiovese that has very small fruits. The denomination (Morellino di Scansano Doc) was first established in 1978 and our winery was in fact among the protagonists who contributed to its acknowledgment. More recently, in 2007, the denomination of Morellino di Scansano became a Docg (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita).

In fact, viticulture was already developed in the area, ever since the Etruscans began to produce (and export) wine. Over the centuries, wine production continued, so much so that in the 19th century, viticulture expert Vannuccini, during a conference in Paris, praised the quality of the wine from Scansano though at the same time he said that the true potential of these wines would not be expressed unless a cooperative was to be created.

Production area and soil

The area in which Morellino di Scansano is produced, comprises the hilly area of the province of Grosseto, between rivers Ombrone and Albegna, including the whole territory of Scansano and part of Campagnatico, Grosseto, Magliano in Toscana, Manciano, Roccalbegna and Semproniano. The soil is particularly varied though it is in large part characterised by a sequence of sedimentary rocks (flysch) mostly composed of scaly Pliocene clay, rich in small stones (pietrisco).

Climate

With the sea being so close, the climate is typically Mediterranean. Summers are hot and sunny, which ensures an excellent ripening of the grapes. Rain is usually spread over the autumn and spring months. Winters are temperate though it can get colder closer Scansano and Manciano, where the altitude increases and the climate in general is more continental.

Morellino di Scansano Docg and Morellino di Scansano Docg Riserva

According to regulations, Morellino di Scansano is produced using at least 85% grapes of Sangiovese (Morellino clone). Morellino is usually produced using stainless steel tanks while for Morellino di Scansano Riserva a minimum ageing of two years has to be allowed – of these two years, at least one years must be spent by the wine in wood barrels.

In general, Morellino di Scansano is a red, fruity wine, characterised by a medium body and pleasant balance on the palate with a long finish. Due to its structure and balance it is very versatile when it comes to wine and food matching and always offer a finely defined character. Morellino di Scansano Riserva is more structured, given the ageing in wood barrels.