#Italy #Montalcino #Cecchi Family #Brunello #Castelnuovo dell'Abate

Unveiling Aminta: Famiglia Cecchi's Latest Wine Estate

Famiglia Cecchi has taken a significant step in its storied wine journey with the introduction of Aminta to its esteemed portfolio. Acquired in 2018, this picturesque estate is nestled in the heart of the renowned wine region of Montalcino, specifically in Castelnuovo dell'Abate, just a stone's throw away from the historic Abbey of Sant'Antimo. With a commitment to producing exceptional wines, Aminta is set to showcase its first releases later this year: the Brunello di Montalcino D.O.C.G. 2020 and Rosso di Montalcino D.O.C. 2023.

A Legacy of Excellence

Leading Famiglia Cecchi is Andrea Cecchi, representing the fourth generation of a family dedicated to the craft of winemaking since 1893. Over the years, the Cecchi family has made its mark through a pioneering vision that prioritizes quality, sustainability, and a genuine connection to the land. Their entry into Montalcino, a region synonymous with Brunello, is more than just a business decision; it's a heartfelt tribute to their legacy as cultivators of Sangiovese, Italy's most prestigious grape variety.

Andrea states, "With Aminta, we wanted to complete a journey that has always connected us to Sangiovese, a variety we consider central to our winemaking identity. Entering Montalcino was a long-pondered decision, one that allows us to invest in a territory of extraordinary complexity and prestige. We aspire to honor great Italian terroirs by crafting wines that resonate with their origins."

The Estate and Its Features

Covering an area of 6 hectares, Aminta is strategically located in the southeastern region of the Brunello di Montalcino appellation. The estate is segmented into three distinct plots: Pian Bossolino, Cantina, and Caselle, each benefiting from optimal pedoclimatic conditions. The combination of altitude, favorable exposure, and natural shelter provided by Mount Amiata ensures ideal vineyard management. The soil’s diversity—from galestro and pietraforte to Messinian sands—contributes to the exceptional character of the wines produced here.

The estate's moniker, Aminta, finds its inspiration from multiple sources. Primarily, it is a tribute to Andrea’s mother, Anita, who passed away in 2017, symbolizing strength and inspiration for the family. Secondly, the geographical aspect is represented by Mount Amiata, a majestic backdrop crucial to the estate’s microclimate that facilitates ideal vine growth. Lastly, the name pays homage to Torquato Tasso's pastoral drama, L'Aminta, wherein a natural spring symbolizes vitality—an echo of the estate's own woodland hot springs.

Anticipation for the First Releases

After years of careful work in both vineyard and cellar, Aminta’s acclaimed wines are ready to be unveiled. The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 is limited to just 3,000 numbered bottles, including a select few magnums. Similarly, the Rosso di Montalcino 2023 boasts an allocation of 3,100 bottles, also featuring some magnums. Both labels showcase artistic designs inspired by Anita Sardelli’s original artwork, reflecting the family’s deep-seated artistic traditions and third-generation legacy.

The official launch of Aminta is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2025, coinciding with the celebrated Benvenuto Brunello event.

Continuing the Tradition

Beyond being just a new estate for the Cecchi family, Aminta symbolizes the continuous evolution of their identity while remaining firmly anchored in their roots. With existing estates such as Villa Cerna, Val delle Rose, and Tenuta Alzatura already reinforcing their winemaking credentials, the introduction of Aminta epitomizes their ambition to capture the essence of Italy's most renowned wine regions with authenticity and passion.

As the world eagerly awaits Aminta’s inaugural wines, it becomes clear that Famiglia Cecchi is not just expanding their portfolio; they are nurturing a profound legacy that is set to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of Italian winemaking.