Italy — wine

Morellino di Scansano

A coastal Tuscan DOCG in the Maremma, producing approachable, fruit-forward Sangiovese (locally known as Morellino) with a distinctly Mediterranean character. The warm coastal climate, clay-limestone soils, and lower altitude compared to Chianti produce rounder, more accessible red wines with dark cherry, violets, and Mediterranean scrub. Elevated to DOCG in 2007 as recognition of the region's consistent quality.

Year Rating Notes
2023 Warm Maremma coastal season with excellent Sangiovese ripeness; dark fruit and violet expression
2022 Good vintage; round, plummy Morellino with approachable tannins and Mediterranean warmth
2021 Slightly cooler year producing more elegant, higher-acid style; ideal for food pairing
2020 Hot, dry season; concentrated wines with the coastal scrub character the region is known for
2019 Benchmark vintage for coastal Tuscany; finest Morellino in a generation
2018 Benchmark year; Le Pupille Poggio Valente and Moris Farms Avvoltore both exceptional.
2017 Good season; wines show characteristic Maremma warmth and ripe Mediterranean fruit.