~ The view from Il Civettaio is nothing short of inspiring ~
Il Civettaio means the “owls perch”. That’s no mistake. When you visit this wonderful Agriturismo, which sits atop a hill and has commanding views of the valley below, it’s easy to understand.
Il Civettaio was founded in 2001 by winemaker and proprietor Gregorio Dell’Adami de Tarczal. He has single handedly revitalized and nurtured the estate into a wonderful organic farm. Today, the property spans 30 hectares from which organic wines, olive oil and honey are produced.
~ Sloping vineyards on the Il Civettaio Estate ~
Il Civettaio sits just across the Ombrone river, about 10 minutes from the southern most boundary of the Brunello zone. Here in the Alta Maremma the feeling of remoteness brings inner peace. Indeed, it appears you are far flung but that’s only the appearance. Montalcino, Maremma, Pienza and other hill towns are never far away. Indeed, the estate has become a fixture on the Rustic Tuscany Tour. It provides a peaceful jump off point to explore Maremma and Montalcino.
~ Last October, I rose early ahead of some of our guests and wandered the property for a hike. This Vermentino vineyard was emerging from the midst of dawn. Gregorio’s Vermentino is excellent and it provides a welcoming apperitivo upon arrival ~
Although Gregorio’s wines are mostly sold locally in the various Maremma restaurants and across Italy, I managed to procure a magnum which I carted home in March when my boys and I visited the estate. I was holding it until this Summer when we paired it with Rigatoni Pesto and a wonderful Bistecca.
The 2019 Il Civettaio Sangiovese is truly delicious. In the glass, the wine is a deep ruby color. It’s difficult to see through it. The aromas rise effortlessly from the stem and radiate fresh flowers, wild berries, cherry, toasted spices and Tuscan herbs. It smells of Maremma and is complex and interesting. In the mouth, the wine is well balanced. It’s juicy, lively and fresh with dark cherry, wild berry, fresh herb and tobacco leaf flavors.
While it could easily age, especially in this format, it’s delicious right now. Moderate tannins do not intrude and melt away against the Fiorentina back drop.
Maybe it’s because I’ve walked every corner of this property. Maybe it’s because I know the man; humble, friendly and welcoming. Maybe it’s because I long to go back, to take my guests here and show them first hand what these words mean. Maybe it’s just excellent wine. Maybe it’s all of the above.
93 points. Available directly from the Estate.
~ Another excellent 2019 – 100% Sangiovese ~
There is no wine without food…..
~ Locally sourced grass fed prime Fiorentina – perfection ~
Salute! I look forward to seeing you on a future Rustic Tuscany Tour!
