Discover Argiano: a legacy of excellence in Montalcino
For over 500 years, Argiano has been intertwined with the rich history of Montalcino. The estate’s heart, Villa Bell’Aria, a sixteenth-century Renaissance villa, stands as a proud testament to this enduring heritage. From the noble Sienese families to Ersilia Caetani Lovatelli, whose leadership in the 1800s brought Argiano wines to fame, the estate has consistently been at the forefront of winemaking excellence.
In the early 20th century, Argiano’s wines garnered international acclaim, winning the gold medal at the 1932 Brussels Food Exhibition. The estate became a founding member of the Brunello di Montalcino Consortium in 1967, cementing its place in Italian winemaking history.
This deep bond with the territory is now celebrated through a collection of the most iconic bottles of Brunello, preserved along the walls of a vertical cellar, created in the cistern of an ancient well that visitors can reach thanks to a beautiful spiral staircase that leads to an evocative journey. In 1992, the property passed from the Caetani Lovatelli family to the countess Noemi Marone Cinzano.
The introduction of Solengo in 1995, under the guidance of oenologist Giacomo Tachis, marked Argiano’s innovative spirit, blending Bordeaux varieties to create Montalcino’s first Supertuscan.
Today, under the stewardship of CEO and oenologist Bernardino Sani, Argiano continues to thrive. Sani, along with agronomist Francesco Monari, has spearheaded a revitalization project focusing on Sangiovese and the estate’s unique micro-terroirs. This attention to the land led to the creation of Vigna del Suolo, a Brunello di Montalcino DOCG produced from the estate’s oldest vineyard, showcasing extraordinary elegance and complexity.
Argiano spans 125 hectares, with 58 dedicated to vineyards. The diverse soils, ranging from calcareousmarly to alluvial, contribute to the distinctive character of its wines. Argiano’s historic and modern cellars blend tradition and innovation, providing an ideal environment for the aging of their esteemed Brunello di Montalcino and Rosso di Montalcino. The historic cellar, dating back to the Renaissance, and the modern cellar, completed in 2016, both reflect the estate’s dedication to quality. Furthermore, Argiano bases its agricultural management on balance and biodiversity, focusing on soil health.
It avoids insecticides and it is certified organic and plastic-free since 2019; also it follows circular economy principles and the 4 Rs: Reducing, Recovering, Recycling, Reusing. The Carbon-Neutral Argiano project offsets CO2 emissions, making it a leader in the Carbon-Neutral Siena Territorial Alliance.
Beyond winemaking, Argiano offers an elegant hospitality experience at Argiano Dimore. These residences, part of the original farmhouse complex, offer panoramic views, private gardens, and a swimming pool, all designed with a minimal ecological footprint. Argiano’s legacy is not just in its wines but in its deep respect for history, tradition, and the environment, making it a true jewel of Montalcino.
