Select, Sieve and Separate: Our Idea of Quality.

Poggio Antico aims to bring only the best of its vineyards to the cellar.

We leave nothing to chance: we carry out rigorous selection from the vineyard to the cellar in order to identify, select and separate the best grapes that can bring out their utmost expressions, in accordance with the results we want to achieve.

TRIPLE SELECTION

In the vineyard, selection begins with the Units of Soil that are reaped according to custom harvest calendars. This allows grapes coming from different vineyards but belonging to the same Unit of Soil to reach the cellar at the right time.

However, many may not be aware that (during harvest) the grapes of Poggio Antico are examined three times.

1. The first selection is in the vineyard: only healthy grapes that have reached perfect maturation are harvested.

2. The second is selection on the sorting table: the grapes are placed on a conveyor belt and everything that is not needed is removed manually.

3. The third selection is automatic and takes place thanks to the combination of mechanics and electronics: the grapes go through an optical sorter that “inspects” the berries three times using cameras that are sensitive to three different light wavelengths. The sorter identifies the imperfection (unripeness, rotting, foreign bodies) and discards them with a delicate jet of air. Such detailed inspection would almost be impossible for the naked eye and thus ensures that only the best grapes are used for winemaking.

PLOT-BY-PLOT SYSTEM

Triple selection of the grapes is a fundamental step to ensure the quality of Poggio Antico wines. But how do we preserve the expressiveness of the Units of Soil?

We adopted a system that we call plot-by-plot, applied to every single Unit of Soil. In simple terms, the grapes from each Unit of Soil are separately vinified and then aged until the final blending.

After the Unit of Soil revealed its expressive characteristics, only then will the winemaker bring in his expertise. Repeated tastings and evaluations in the winery compose the blend that will become one of our Brunello di Montalcino labels.

We can liken this stage to the composition of a symphony. Each Unit of Soil, from the vineyard to the barrel, has its own personality and distinct “sound”. Our work consists in using the right notes, giving them the proper intensity, and enhancing each individual identity to create the final harmony that truly embodies the territory.