Top 7 Morellino di Scansano Wines Selected by Gambero Rosso

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Discover Morellino di Scansano, Tuscany's bold red wine gem. Rooted in tradition yet innovative, it pairs perfectly with hearty dishes. Explore its rich story!

The Essence of Morellino di Scansano: Tuscany's Bold Red Treasure

A Storied Terroir: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Tuscany, Morellino di Scansano embodies the rich viticultural history and innovation that define Italian winemaking. This vibrant red wine hails from the Maremma region, specifically between the Ombrone and Albegna rivers, encompassing Scansano and parts of Manciano, Magliano in Toscana, Grosseto, Campagnatico, Semproniano, and Roccalbegna. Its backbone is Sangiovese—locally known as "Morellino"—which comprises at least 85% of the blend, often complemented by other non-aromatic black grape varietals.

Gaining its DOC status in 1978 and ascending to DOCG in 2006, Morellino di Scansano reflects Tuscany’s pioneering spirit. From Chianti Classico to Bolgheri’s famed Super Tuscans, this region consistently produces some of Italy's most celebrated wines. According to Gambero Rosso’s Vini d’Italia 2025, Tuscany secured an impressive 91 award-winning wines this year alone—a testament to its enduring excellence.

The terroir here is special: a coastal Mediterranean climate softened by sea breezes fosters grapes with balance and depth. As winemaker Simone Castelli of Podere 414 notes: “The land gives us boldness; we merely guide it into the bottle.”

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From Annata to Riserva: A Spectrum of Elegance

Morellino di Scansano offers two distinct styles—Annata (vintage) and Riserva—each revealing unique facets of this versatile wine. The Annata delivers a youthful vibrancy with ruby-red hues and flavors that are dry, warm, and slightly tannic. It pairs beautifully with hearty pasta dishes or grilled meats.

On the other hand, Riserva represents a deeper dive into complexity. Aged for at least two years—one of which must be spent in wood—it boasts garnet tones with aromas of ripe forest fruits interwoven with spices and subtle smokiness. On the palate, it’s fuller-bodied and textured yet retains its characteristic freshness.

Serve both styles at approximately 18°C (64°F) to unlock their aromatic potential. For pairings? Riserva shines alongside roasted game or wild boar stew—a homage to its Tuscan roots.

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Stars of Maremma: Award-Winning Producers

In recent years, Morellino di Scansano has garnered increasing acclaim on global stages thanks to innovative producers committed to quality over quantity. Among them is Podere 414, whose Morellino Vigna Bersagliere Riserva 2018 earned coveted Tre Bicchieri recognition for its lush bouquet of red fruits and Mediterranean herbs combined with refined structure.

Similarly noteworthy is Roccapesta’s Vigna I Gaggioli Riserva 2022, praised for its nuanced underbrush aromas and elegant palate feel—a triumph rooted in traditional practices like cultivating old vines and aging predominantly in large oak barrels. Alberto Tanzini remarks: “Our approach is simple: respect the land while crafting wines that honor its essence.”

Other standout labels include Bruni’s Laire Riserva 2021, Terenzi’s Madrechiesa Riserva 2021, Monterò’s More 2022 (crafted biodynamically), Morisfarms’ Riserva 2020, and Col di Bacche’s Rovente Riserva 2021—all shining examples of how varied yet cohesive this appellation can be.

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Crafting Excellence Through Time

The journey from vineyard to bottle speaks volumes about the dedication behind each sip of Morellino di Scansano. Winemakers like those at Monterò employ innovative techniques—cement vats for purity alongside ceramic eggs for micro-oxygenation—to preserve their terroir-driven character while embracing modernity.

Historical context enriches these wines further; during Italy's agrarian reforms in the mid-20th century, many properties were numbered systematically by local authorities. Podere numbers like "414" became more than administrative labels—they symbolized identity and resilience amidst change.

As Simone Castelli explains: “Our name isn’t just a number; it tells a story tied deeply to this land.” Such narratives underscore why these wines transcend mere consumption—they’re cultural artifacts bottled for posterity.

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Pairing Perfection: Bringing Morellino to Your Table

One hallmark of Morellino di Scansano is its food-friendliness—a trait deeply embedded in Italian culinary traditions. This robust red complements an array of dishes ranging from rustic Tuscan staples to elevated gastronomy:

• Timballo di Ziti e Scamorza: A baked pasta dish featuring smoky cheese perfectly balances the acidity and structure of Annata.
• Acquacotta ai Funghi: This mushroom-based soup enhances the earthy undertones found in many Riserve.
• Farro alla Garfagnana: Creamy farro with pecorino cheese pairs harmoniously with Morellino's fruit-forward vibrancy.

When enjoying these pairings at home or in your favorite ristorante Toscano, remember: great wine elevates every meal—and every moment.

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Conclusion: The Future Beckons

As global interest grows around lesser-known appellations like Morellino di Scansano, so too does its potential on international markets. With sustainable practices becoming increasingly integral across Tuscany’s wineries—from organic farming to biodynamic experimentation—the future shines bright for this hidden gem.

More than just another Sangiovese expression, Morellino captures what makes wine magical: a connection between people, place, tradition—and innovation. So next time you pour yourself a glass from Maremma's heartland? Raise it high; you're tasting history reimagined.

The Essence of Morellino di Scansano: Tuscany's Bold Red Treasure

A Storied Terroir: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Tuscany, Morellino di Scansano embodies the rich viticultural history and innovation that define Italian winemaking. This vibrant red wine hails from the Maremma region, specifically between the Ombrone and Albegna rivers, encompassing Scansano and parts of Manciano, Magliano in Toscana, Grosseto, Campagnatico, Semproniano, and Roccalbegna. Its backbone is Sangiovese—locally known as "Morellino"—which comprises at least 85% of the blend, often complemented by other non-aromatic black grape varietals.

Gaining its DOC status in 1978 and ascending to DOCG in 2006, Morellino di Scansano reflects Tuscany’s pioneering spirit. From Chianti Classico to Bolgheri’s famed Super Tuscans, this region consistently produces some of Italy's most celebrated wines. According to Gambero Rosso’s Vini d’Italia 2025, Tuscany secured an impressive 91 award-winning wines this year alone—a testament to its enduring excellence.

The terroir here is special: a coastal Mediterranean climate softened by sea breezes fosters grapes with balance and depth. As winemaker Simone Castelli of Podere 414 notes: “The land gives us boldness; we merely guide it into the bottle.”

---

From Annata to Riserva: A Spectrum of Elegance

Morellino di Scansano offers two distinct styles—Annata (vintage) and Riserva—each revealing unique facets of this versatile wine. The Annata delivers a youthful vibrancy with ruby-red hues and flavors that are dry, warm, and slightly tannic. It pairs beautifully with hearty pasta dishes or grilled meats.

On the other hand, Riserva represents a deeper dive into complexity. Aged for at least two years—one of which must be spent in wood—it boasts garnet tones with aromas of ripe forest fruits interwoven with spices and subtle smokiness. On the palate, it’s fuller-bodied and textured yet retains its characteristic freshness.

Serve both styles at approximately 18°C (64°F) to unlock their aromatic potential. For pairings? Riserva shines alongside roasted game or wild boar stew—a homage to its Tuscan roots.

---

Stars of Maremma: Award-Winning Producers

In recent years, Morellino di Scansano has garnered increasing acclaim on global stages thanks to innovative producers committed to quality over quantity. Among them is Podere 414, whose Morellino Vigna Bersagliere Riserva 2018 earned coveted Tre Bicchieri recognition for its lush bouquet of red fruits and Mediterranean herbs combined with refined structure.

Similarly noteworthy is Roccapesta’s Vigna I Gaggioli Riserva 2022, praised for its nuanced underbrush aromas and elegant palate feel—a triumph rooted in traditional practices like cultivating old vines and aging predominantly in large oak barrels. Alberto Tanzini remarks: “Our approach is simple: respect the land while crafting wines that honor its essence.”

Other standout labels include Bruni’s Laire Riserva 2021, Terenzi’s Madrechiesa Riserva 2021, Monterò’s More 2022 (crafted biodynamically), Morisfarms’ Riserva 2020, and Col di Bacche’s Rovente Riserva 2021—all shining examples of how varied yet cohesive this appellation can be.

---

Crafting Excellence Through Time

The journey from vineyard to bottle speaks volumes about the dedication behind each sip of Morellino di Scansano. Winemakers like those at Monterò employ innovative techniques—cement vats for purity alongside ceramic eggs for micro-oxygenation—to preserve their terroir-driven character while embracing modernity.

Historical context enriches these wines further; during Italy's agrarian reforms in the mid-20th century, many properties were numbered systematically by local authorities. Podere numbers like "414" became more than administrative labels—they symbolized identity and resilience amidst change.

As Simone Castelli explains: “Our name isn’t just a number; it tells a story tied deeply to this land.” Such narratives underscore why these wines transcend mere consumption—they’re cultural artifacts bottled for posterity.

---

Pairing Perfection: Bringing Morellino to Your Table

One hallmark of Morellino di Scansano is its food-friendliness—a trait deeply embedded in Italian culinary traditions. This robust red complements an array of dishes ranging from rustic Tuscan staples to elevated gastronomy:

• Timballo di Ziti e Scamorza: A baked pasta dish featuring smoky cheese perfectly balances the acidity and structure of Annata.
• Acquacotta ai Funghi: This mushroom-based soup enhances the earthy undertones found in many Riserve.
• Farro alla Garfagnana: Creamy farro with pecorino cheese pairs harmoniously with Morellino's fruit-forward vibrancy.

When enjoying these pairings at home or in your favorite ristorante Toscano, remember: great wine elevates every meal—and every moment.

---

Conclusion: The Future Beckons

As global interest grows around lesser-known appellations like Morellino di Scansano, so too does its potential on international markets. With sustainable practices becoming increasingly integral across Tuscany’s wineries—from organic farming to biodynamic experimentation—the future shines bright for this hidden gem.

More than just another Sangiovese expression, Morellino captures what makes wine magical: a connection between people, place, tradition—and innovation. So next time you pour yourself a glass from Maremma's heartland? Raise it high; you're tasting history reimagined.

Photo by Kathy Lee on Unsplash