REGION: Tuscany

La Colombina borders on both the Ciacci and Uccelliera estates in Castelnuovo dell’Abate. Sourced from vineyards owned by the Caselli family for generations. Husband and wife Alamiro and Anna Maria make ripe, powerful wines of great aging potential at affordable prices.

In 1988, twin brothers Andrea & Marcello began growing their family farm into the nine hectares it spans today. About six of those are under vine dedicated exclusively to Sangiovese for Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino and certified organic since the 2013 vintage. Enologist Paolo Caciorgna consults.

Le Calcinaie is one of San Gimignano’s youngest wineries but has quickly become one of its best. Founded by Simone Santini in 1987, the estate runs 12 organically-farmed ha. with perfect northeast exposure. Classic Vernaccia with good structure, balance and charm, as well as a great-value Chianti.

Brothers Carlo and Lorenzo, with cousin Ludovica, craft traditional and laser pure expressions of Sangiovese from the hills around Sant’Angelo in Colle, in the Southwest corner of Montalcino. Lisini is sine qua non – the epitome of classically-styled Brunello, against which all others are measured.