Verbena winery
Azienda Agricola Verbena is a family-run winery located in the heart of Tuscany, near the historic town of Montalcino. Established in 1985 by the Lippi family, the estate covers approximately 23 hectares, with 8 hectares dedicated to vineyards and 2 hectares to olive groves. The winery is situated on the gentle slopes of Montalcino, an area celebrated for its unique terroir and ideal microclimate, which contribute to the production of high-quality wines. The estate's philosophy is rooted in the respect for tradition, the land, and sustainable agriculture, ensuring that each bottle reflects the character of its origins.
Verbena's vineyards are primarily planted with Sangiovese Grosso, the grape variety essential for the production of Brunello di Montalcino and Rosso di Montalcino. The vines are cultivated at an altitude of 400 meters above sea level, benefiting from excellent sun exposure and well-drained soils composed of clay and limestone. The careful management of the vineyards, combined with manual harvesting, ensures that only the best grapes reach the cellar. The estate also produces extra virgin olive oil from its centuries-old olive trees, further showcasing the richness of the local terroir.
The winemaking process at Verbena combines traditional methods with modern techniques to create wines of great elegance and balance. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, allowing for precise control over extraction and development of aromas. The aging of Brunello di Montalcino occurs in large Slavonian oak barrels for a minimum of 36 months, followed by additional refinement in the bottle. This approach preserves the integrity of the Sangiovese grape, resulting in wines with complexity, structure, and longevity.
Verbena's portfolio includes Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Rosso di Montalcino DOC, and IGT Toscana wines. The Brunello di Montalcino is characterized by its intense ruby color, rich bouquet of red fruits, spices, and a hint of tobacco, with a full-bodied palate and velvety tannins. The Rosso di Montalcino offers a more approachable style, with fresh fruit notes and lively acidity, making it suitable for earlier consumption. The estate also produces a limited selection of IGT Toscana wines, allowing for experimentation and expression of the winemaker's creativity.
In addition to wine production, Verbena welcomes visitors to experience the beauty of the Tuscan countryside. The estate offers guided tours of the vineyards and cellar, providing insights into the winemaking process and the history of the family. Tastings are available, featuring a selection of wines paired with local products, allowing guests to fully appreciate the flavors and traditions of Montalcino. The estate also offers hospitality through its charming farmhouse accommodation, immersed in the tranquil landscape and surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
Verbena's commitment to quality, authenticity, and environmental stewardship has earned it a loyal following among wine lovers and connoisseurs. The estate's wines are distributed both in Italy and internationally, representing the excellence of Montalcino on the world stage. With a passion for tradition and a forward-looking approach, Verbena continues to craft wines that embody the spirit of Tuscany, inviting wine enthusiasts to discover the unique heritage and flavors of this remarkable region.