The owner of Col d'Orcia is Count Francesco Marone Cinzano. The Cinzano family has a long-standing farming tradition that dates back to the 16th century. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of learning about the history and significance of Col d'Orcia firsthand.
Count Francesco Marone Cinzano, a member of the renowned Cinzano family, has played a pivotal role in the success and development of Col d'Orcia. The estate is situated in the heart of the picturesque Val d'Orcia region in Tuscany, Italy. It covers an impressive expanse of land, encompassing vineyards, olive groves, and wheat fields.
I had the opportunity to visit Col d'Orcia and meet Count Francesco Marone Cinzano during a wine tasting event. It was a truly memorable experience, as I got to witness the passion and dedication he has for his family's estate. Count Cinzano's knowledge and enthusiasm for winemaking were evident in every aspect of the visit.
During our conversation, Count Cinzano shared with me the rich history of Col d'Orcia. He explained that the estate was originally purchased by his family in the late 19th century. Since then, the Cinzano family has been committed to producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.
As we strolled through the vineyards, Count Cinzano pointed out the different grape varietals cultivated at Col d'Orcia. Sangiovese, the king of Tuscan grapes, dominates the vineyards, but there are also plantings of other indigenous varieties such as Colorino and Ciliegiolo. The careful selection of grape clones and the attention to detail in the vineyard management are crucial factors in the production of high-quality wines.
Col d'Orcia is renowned for its Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy's most prestigious and age-worthy wines. Count Cinzano emphasized the importance of traditional winemaking techniques combined with modern advancements in producing their Brunello. The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted to ensure only the finest fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in large oak vats, followed by aging in traditional Slavonian oak casks and smaller French oak barrels.
In addition to Brunello di Montalcino, Col d'Orcia also produces other notable wines, such as Rosso di Montalcino and the white wine Bianco di Toscana. The estate's commitment to sustainable viticulture is evident in their organic and biodynamic farming practices. Count Cinzano firmly believes in preserving the land for future generations and producing wines that are a true expression of their terroir.
The visit to Col d'Orcia was not only informative but also a sensory delight. Count Cinzano guided us through a tasting of his wines, allowing us to savor the complex flavors and aromas. Each wine had its own distinct personality, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication of the winemaking team.
Count Francesco Marone Cinzano is the proud owner of Col d'Orcia, a prestigious estate in the Val d'Orcia region of Tuscany. His family's farming tradition, spanning centuries, has laid the foundation for the success and excellence of the estate. Through his passion for winemaking and commitment to sustainable practices, Count Cinzano continues to elevate Col d'Orcia's reputation as a producer of outstanding wines.