LA QUINTA

'Eleganza, eleganza, eleganza' is the mantra of the famed oenologist Carlo Ferrini. Since the first vintage in 2009, this estate has fast become something of a cult classic, immediately amongst the established top Montalcino producers.

Carlo's stellar career started with fifteen years researching Sangiovese clones for the Chianti Classico Consorzio and subsequently he has consulted at some of the greatest estates in Italy. In 2009 he finally put down some roots of his own, putting his full effort and expertise, his heart and soul - into his own winery in Montalcino. Named after his parents 'Giovanna and Donatello' - Giodo is small, just 5.5 Hectares - but perfectly formed.

Carlo spent many years looking for the best spot for his own venture. Just south of the town of Montalcino he found the site for Giodo. South-east facing, gentle slopes in small parcels surrounded by forest, perfectly exposed to the morning and early afternoon sun, and looking out towards Monte Amiata. He planted fifteen different clones of Sangiovese, all chosen for their quality of fruit and their low yields, using his earlier experience to select the very best for this site.

The winery itself, it should come as no surprise, is a minimalist work of art and the culmination of Carlo's experience in designing the perfect tool for the job for his clients over the years. It was finished just in time to make the 2019 vintage. The gravity-fed vat room has both stainless steel and concrete vats, and the barrel cellar has a variety of amphorae as well as multiple sizes of barrels.