Montecastelli

The Protected Geographical Indication "Montecastelli" identifies white, red and red wines Novelli, as well as those with specification of the vine of origin: Sangiovese, Merlot, Canaiolo Nero, Ciliegiolo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Trebbiano Toscano, Malvasia Bianca Lunga, Vermentino.

Grapes

The "Montecastelli" PGI is reserved for wines obtained from vineyards suitable for cultivation in Toscana. In the case of specification on the label of one of the vines, it is necessary that a minimum of 85% of the grapes used in the production comes from the same. The remaining 15% can be obtained from grapes from vines suitable for cultivation in Toscana. The specified varieties are Sangiovese, Merlot, Canaiolo Nero, Ciliegiolo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Trebbiano Toscano, Malvasia Bianca Lunga, Vermentino.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The "Montecastelli" white wines are straw yellow in colour, more or less intense, with a delicate and fruity bouquet and a dry and savoury flavour. The red typology, even in the new version, is characterized by a more or less intense ruby red colour, combined with an intense, fruity aroma and a dry and savoury flavour. The minimum total alcholic strength by volume is 11.00% vol. for the white wine and 12.00% vol. for the red wine. When the vine of origin is specified, the basic characteristics are enriched with peculiarities of this origin, which are punctually defined in the product specification.

Grape production area

The production area, limited to the province of Pisa, is composed of thick woods, covering more than half of the area, and hills at an altitude of between 300 and 700 meters above sea level.

Specificity and historical notes

The wine-growing tradition of the area has ancient origins, as evidenced by the Etruscan finds found in the area. The interest in the production of wine has been handed down over the centuries. In 1906 a wine exhibition in Volterra awarded numerous wines from the current "Montecastelli" PGI area.