Vincenzo Abbruzzese’s systematic changes over the past 25 years have earned Valdicava a place among the elite producers of Brunello di Montalcino. With just 10 hectares in the coldest part of the Brunello zone, he is probably the most exacting grower in the area, managing vegetation so that each grape will enjoy the perfect amount of sun and mercilessly expunging tightly packed grapes to avoid rot and disease. His beautifully tended vineyards yield some of the richest wines in Montalcino; and thats where most of the focus is – on the vineyards. The winery itself is unremarkable and is equipped with just the bare essentials with all of the wines aged in large, neutral oak. What is clearly evident is Vincenzo’s commitment to low yields, sustainable farming and a non-interventionist winemaking consistently demonstrate richness and excellent structure in his wines. Produced from grapes grown in the Poggio, Pievecchina, Pratea and Sferracavallo vineyards. The wine is powerful and structured with plums and black cherries mingling with aromas of leather and spice.