Wine Spectator 96
"Enticing from the first aromas of fresh cherry, violet and spice, this supple red is balanced and expressive. Matches an elegant frame with a firm backbone of tannins and lively acidity. Very persistent on the long, detailed aftertaste. Best from 2020 through 2036. From Italy.—B.S"

The Wine
Harvest occurs during the first two weeks of October. After fermentation, the wine ages for two years in a combination of 90% 20HL barrels and 10% barriques. It is then aged for a period of time in bottle before release.

About the Winery
The La Serena estate has belonged to the Mantengoli family since the 1930s, but they did not start making wine until 1988, when brothers Andrea & Marcello entered the family business. What began as a one-hectare farm has since grown into ten hectares, with about eight of those under vine, dedicated exclusively to Sangiovese for Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino. The Mantengoli family has incorporated a system of diversified agriculture in their vineyards, where they grow a variety of crops, including spelt.

The zone of production, Torrenieri, is in the northeast corner of Montalcino at about 400 meters above sea level. The soil here is similar to the Pertimali/Montosoli Cru areas, but is slightly less compact, providing wines with structure but perhaps more approachability in their youth than their neighbors. With Enologist Paolo Caciorgna at the helm, the estate is in great hands.

Vineyard Practices: La Serena practices organic and biodynamic viticulture. Grass is grown between the rows, and beneficial insects have been introduced to the property. After harvest, the vine shoots are collected and composted to be used as organic fertilizer. There is absolutely no usage of chemical herbicides or fertilizers.

Farming Practice: Practicing Organic