Morellino di Scansano DOCG: Tuscan wine with sea scents, Sangiovese
Among the most representative wines of Tuscany, but also of the entire nation, Morellino di Scansano DOCG is rightfully one of the most renowned and prized. Its origin is Maremma, near the Scansano area, and at the end of 2006, it obtained the DOCG designation.
It is a smooth red wine but at the same time with good structure, pairing well with many dishes, preferably meat, but it also offers good versatility if consumed throughout a meal. Its uniqueness comes from the influence of marine-origin soils and the winds from the Tyrrhenian Sea that blow over the vineyards. Morellino is a less robust wine compared to Brunello, but it is known for releasing a rich aroma.
The identity of Morellino di Scansano DOCG
Morellino di Scansano presents itself with an intense ruby red color, which can turn to garnet with aging.
Its particular aromatic bouquet is complex and fruity, with notes of cherry, plum, and wild berries, all accompanied by hints of spices, flowers, and a slight touch of vanilla and “toasted” notes derived from aging in wood. For this reason, the more aged varieties emphasize these latter scents.
The main feature of this wine, however, is its taste: it is well-structured, with soft tannins and good acidity, qualities that give it elegance, fragrance, and freshness. The finish is persistent and fruity. The minimum alcohol content must be 12.5% vol, and 13% for the Morellino di Scansano Riserva.
It should be noted that the territorial position in southern Tuscany, precisely in Maremma, places the vineyards on hills characterized by marine-origin soil, and thus subject to the winds from the sea. These peculiarities affect the grapes and therefore the wine's characterization.
Historical background and origins
The history of Morellino di Scansano is deeply rooted in the Tuscan territory since the Etruscan period. However, this type of wine, as we know it today, began to gain notoriety at the end of the 20th century when winemakers decided to focus on production quality by improving viticultural and winemaking techniques. Some say the name "Morellino" refers to a local variety of Sangiovese grapes, which is the main grape used for this wine. However, there is another interpretation from ancient times: in the area, there is a type of horse called "morelli" used for transportation in Maremma. Hence the name "Morellino."
In 1978, Morellino obtained DOC status and only in 2007 did it receive the DOCG designation. Over the years, the disciplinary has not undergone significant changes, a clear sign of a tradition that remains over time.
Production method
Morellino di Scansano is mainly produced with a minimum of 85% Sangiovese, along with other local non-aromatic black grape varieties suitable for cultivation in Tuscany, such as Canaiolo and Ciliegiolo. However, several wineries choose to produce Morellino entirely with Sangiovese grapes native to the region.
The grapes are harvested manually, and after pressing, fermentation takes place in steel or wooden vats. Here, the skin maceration process also occurs. Subsequently, the wine is transferred to oak barrels, where it is aged for a few months or even years, depending on the desired type. For example, Morellino di Scansano Riserva DOCG must be aged for at least two years, with at least one year in wooden barrels. Once bottled, maturation may continue before being sold.
Morellino at the table
As mentioned earlier, Morellino di Scansano DOCG is a wine that can also be enjoyed throughout a meal, although it is best suited for second courses, with red meat or game. Roasts, braised meats, and grilled dishes are perfect pairings, but Morellino likely expresses its best when paired with wild boar.
It is also excellent with pasta dishes like pici and pappardelle with meat sauces, as well as with hard cheeses.
In general, Morellino di Scansano is a wine that enhances the flavors of Tuscan and inland Italian cuisine. To best appreciate its characteristics and flavor, it is recommended to serve it at a temperature of around 16-18°C.
Local experiences
Among the various companies operating in the area, I had the opportunity to visit the Cantina Cooperativa Vignaioli del Morellino di Scansano.
Founded in 1972, it is a winery made up of 170 members, covering approximately 700 hectares of vineyards in the heart of Maremma, Tuscany.
The production is mainly focused on Morellino di Scansano, the area's symbolic wine, available in different expressions that highlight its versatility. The winery is renowned for the quality of its wines, the result of the attentive and passionate work of its members, who tend to each vineyard like a garden, ensuring excellent products.