CASTELLO ROMITORIO
After thirty years of hard work in the area, Castello Romitorio is now an internationally recognized winery specializing in Sangiovese and Brunello di Montalcino. The Chia family is committed to tradition and the pursuit of excellence, through classic style and innovation. The most demanding challenge is measuring up to an extraordinary area, and continuing to offer consistently high quality wines that express their origin.
G.D. VAJRA
G.D. Vajra - a world of sublime hand-crafted, artisan wines of the very highest level. The family excels with all the Piedmont staples – Dolcetto, Barbera, Nebbiolo, Moscato and the very rare Freisa, as well as Riesling that is far better than it has any right to be. Barolo Albe has made a name for itself as one of the best-value Barolos going, while Bricco delle Viole has cemented a reputation as one of the finest cru Barolo wines, period.
LIVIO SASSETTI
Today the estates are managed by Lorenzo Sassetti, Livio’s son, fourth generation family member and acclaimed winemaker. He is joined by his wife Sabina and together they passionately uphold the family name and reputation. All of Lorenzo’s wines have deep roots in their respective terroirs, showcasing his willingness to preserve their traditional features. The wines are invigorating, aromatic, powerful styles that dance on the palate rather than attack it with blunt force. The Sassetti’s “Pertimali” Brunello di Montalcino is a collector’s wine. A benchmark.
“The Vajra family produced a bevy of stellar wines from both their estates, G.D. Vajra in Barolo and Baudana in Serralunga. The 2017s are deep, fleshy and impeccably balanced.” Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“This tiny estate, which has been making spectacular wines since 1982, makes some of the finest red wines in Tuscany. I am beginning to think that if I had only one Brunello di Montalcino to drink it would have to be Pertimali. Unfortunately, quantities are microscopic, making availability a major headache.” Robert M Parker
But the reputation of a great vintage is not made on the perfect wines. I learned a long time ago as a wine critic that great years are years when everything is outstanding from the lesser-known properties to the most prestigious ones. The 2016 and 2015 vintages certainly achieved this, making this pair of years the greatest ever for Brunello di Montalcino. James Suckling, CEO & editor
