The Montecucco DOC sits in the southern part of the charming Tuscany region, in central Italy. This area is nestled between Montalcino, home of the renowned Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, and Scansano, birthplace of the Morellino di Scansano DOCG. Despite having a viticultural heritage dating as far back as the eighth century, this winemaking zone was only awarded its DOC classification in 1998.
According to regulations, vineyards are limited to a small part of the province of Siena and the rest sit in the Upper Maremma. They are situated on the southwest hillsides of the Amiata Mountain, directly opposite the Brunello slopes; the two enjoy the same microclimate.
Today this DOC has made a name for itself with its Montecucco Rosso, produced from the leading Tuscan red grape, Sangiovese, which makes up 60% of the wine. The wine is regarded for its fine tannins, sweet fruit aromas and cherry-rich flavors. A Sangiovese varietal and its riserva (aged for a minimum of 24 months) are also part of the DOC, as is a Vermentino varietal; all require 85% of the stated variety. Like the rosso, the Montecucco Bianco favors a local variety: the white Trebbiano Toscano grape, which must make up 60% of the wine.
