JOANNI

Founded in 1923 by Giovanni Fuligni, the estate today is co-owned by Robert Guerrini Fuligni and his delightful aunt Maria Flora Fuligni. Roberto works closely with his strong team of Simone Bacconi as agronomist and Daniele Zeffirini as winemaker, with additional technical advice from Federico Ricci in the vineyards, and oenologist father and son Paolo and Jacopo Vagaggini. These are all kept under control by Daniela Perino, who runs the office and commercial side.

The estate covers 100 hectares, of which 14 are under vine, almost all planted with Sangiovese, with a small amount of Merlot for the IGT blend. Most of the land is in a strip on the eastern side of Montalcino, the classic and historical area for the production of Brunello, in localitá Cottimelli. What is important is the combined height of the vineyards (350-440m), the density of planting, age of the vines (14-40) and the 'galestro' soils on which they are planted. Fuligni's wines have reached international recognition for their purity of expression, strong backbone of acidity and polished tannins.

These are simply the finest wines of Brunello, epitomising all that is great from the region. The 'Rosso' now comes from a defined part of the vineyard, on clay and tufa rather than the marl of the Brunello. It is made from the outset as a Rosso, with different clones and the intention to make a wine which will be approachable at a much younger age.

L&S's relationship with Roberto goes back to the mid-nineties. We have always loved the wines here, which combine the concentration and elegance of the best of Brunello. They can be drunk more or less from release, and are so perfectly balanced that they age beautifully. The 'Riserva' releases, made only in the best years, can reward cellaring for decades.