2015 Col d'Orcia Cabernet Sant'Antimo Olmaia

"One of our favorites in Montalcino is Col d’Orcia. Apart from making superb wines, the owner, count Francesco Marone Cinzano, is passionate about biodiversity and fighting climate change." ~Forbes

One of the original estates of Montalcino and now the largest certified organic estate in Tuscany, Col d’Orcia is a leader in Brunello di Montalcino. The estate is known for helping to define and promote one of Italy’s most prestigious wine regions. Tradition, integrity, and sustainability are the pillars of the estate, whose classic style wines are celebrated all over the world. Proudly defined as an ‘organic island,’ Col d’Orcia is committed to maintaining the natural environment in which it operates and has, for many years, employed organic farming practices. Decanter said this winery is ""reliable, consistent, and satisfying."

The estate is known for helping to define and promote one of Italy’s most prestigious wine regions. Tradition, integrity, and sustainability are the pillars of the estate, whose classic-style wines are celebrated all over the world. Proudly defined as an ‘organic island,’ Col d’Orcia is committed to maintaining the natural environment in which it operates and has, for many years, employed organic farming practices.

The estate’s name translates to “the hill overlooking the Orcia River,” as its position lies in the undulating hills between the Orcia River and Sant’Angelo in Colle. Here, the southern orientation provides vines with abundant exposure to sunshine. The vineyard soils are comprised of limestone and marl which facilitates natural irrigation. Located at about 1500 feet above sea level, the estate is favorably positioned against Mount Amiata (5,700 feet) which helps shield the property from floods and hail. The climate is typically the Mediterranean, with limited rainfall coming in from the Tyrrhenian coast, 21 miles away.

This Olmaia Super Tuscan is an ode to Count Alberto Marone Cinzano, who planted the first Cabernet Sauvignon vines in the region of Montalcino.

2015 was an outstanding year for this region. Wine Spectator blessed this vintage with a 97-point review, stating that the wines are "Ripe and opulent, with plenty of fruit and flesh covering the solid structure; best show fine balance for aging."