Estate founder Domenico Berni in the 1970s had a dream: to craft a soulful Sangiovese just a stone’s throw from the center of Montalcino. With barely an acre of land, Berni’s wines (crafted for personal consumption) were so good that friends encouraged him to make wine for the world as well. Three generations and a few more acres later, the descendants of “Delfo”—nephew Gianni Pignattai, his wife Cecilia, son Andrea, and daughter Gloria—are continuing their granduncle’s passion. Pietroso delivers true Montalcino wines, Sangiovese that is elegant and suave, with flavorful concentration.

Three separate estate-owned and planted parcels, totaling 13.5 acres, are located not far from the town of Montalcino, between 1,200 and 1,500 feet above sea level, with varying expositions and soils. Hand-harvested. Fermented on indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks; each vineyard vinified separately. Aged in older French oak tonneaux for eight months, then in older, 32HL Slavonian casks (“botti”) for an additional 30 months.

Aromas of autumn leaves, small red berries, light spice, hints of vanilla. Textured, smooth; tannins are present yet suave, long finish. Pair with grilled steak; air-dried salami; wild mushroom risotto.