MARCH 4TH, 2024
Savoring Tuscan Tradition
Discover Poggio Stenti
Reading Time: 5 mins
I’m thrilled to focus this weekly wine-letter on Poggio Stenti, a niche winery in the heart of Tuscany that, in my opinion, embodies the essence of a true authentic family estate.
Let me take you on a journey through their unique reality, which has delighted the palates of high-quality food and wine enthusiasts worldwide.
With roots dating back to 1950, Rino Pieri began working this land as a true cultural farmer, dedicating space to grape growing, olive groves, and tending to animals and crops, just like an authentic Tuscan farm. Initially, olive oil and wine were made solely for family consumption, not for sale. Then, when Carlo Pieri, the second generation, came along, he decided to start a meat shop in Montalcino around 1980.
This was a time when Montalcino was becoming popular for international tourism. Carlo opened this butcher shop, which quickly became well-known in the area. Located in Sant’Angelo Scalo, at the entrance of Montalcino, this butchery shop is irresistible. Passersby cannot help but be seduced by the premium quality meat and cold cuts served here.
Being so close to the Montalcino area, which boasts an excellent climate for grape growing, Carlo decided to plant vineyards in 2006. Nowadays, it’s his daughter Eleonora who looks after this winery project, which spans one hectare in Vermentino and five hectares of Sangiovese, predominantly. I have been visiting this winery many times, walking among the rows of Sangiovese, Vermentino, and Cabernet Sauvignon, breathing in the essence of the land and the passion that permeates every grape cluster.
Carlo’s choice was correct: the varietals are expressing at their best, offering cooler conditions than other areas in Tuscany, and offering very rich soil thanks to the proximity of Mount Amiata with volcanic origins. Grapes are vinified following the rules of the nearby more renowned producers: at Poggio Stenti Sangiovese is crafted just like it was a Brunello, long agings of 18 to 30 months, offering a very unique expression of this outstanding varietal, yet with a quality-price ratio that will leave you speechless.
But Poggio Stenti is more than just a winery; it’s a savory Tuscan experience, rooted in their heritage as meat and cold-cut producers.
A visit to Poggio Stenti is not a mere winery tour and wine tasting. They delight in combining their produce and specialty dishes with their wines, making it a destination for those seeking an authentic gastronomical adventure. One cannot miss the curated cutting board featuring an array of cold cuts—a must-try. With a little advance planning, guests can also indulge in a variety of other culinary delights, carefully home made according to the local tradition.
My favorite? Whenever I go there, I ask for their Zuppe di Cipolle (onion soup), which despite its name, is not a watery dish but rather a savory delight featuring onions, bread, and cheese baked to perfection in the oven, creating a delightful crust on top. Their unique recipe is a well-kept secret, but if you ever have the chance to visit, I strongly recommend trying it.
Additionally, while in the area, a visit to Carlo’s artisanal meat shop is a must in Montalcino. Their selection of savory handcrafted salamis and artisan sausages will tantalize your taste buds, each bite a testament to the dedication and passion behind every product.
Would you like to enjoy Poggio Stenti‘s exceptional wines
but can’t make to Italy or find it nearby?
No worries!
I’ll be more than happy to ship the finest expressions of their
Maremma DOC and Montecucco DOCG wines,
straight to your door (nearly) worldwide.