Cerbaiona

Cerbaiona is one of Montalcino’s true cult estates, a deeply respected producer whose wines have become benchmarks for traditional, age-worthy Brunello di Montalcino. Set just northeast of the town of Montalcino, the estate sits in a prized hillside position that looks toward some of Tuscany’s most historic wine country. Though small in scale, Cerbaiona has earned an outsized reputation for wines that combine power, purity, aromatic depth, and unmistakable Sangiovese character.

Although the estates history dates back to 1454, the modern story of Cerbaiona began in 1977, when Diego Molinari, a former Alitalia pilot, and his wife Nora purchased the property and began producing wine from this exceptional corner of Montalcino. Molinari’s approach was instinctive, traditional, and uncompromising. Rather than chasing fashion, he focused on expressing the depth and soul of Sangiovese through long aging, minimal intervention, and a style that emphasized structure, longevity, and place. Over time, Cerbaiona’s Brunello gained legendary status among collectors, with the estate becoming especially admired for its ability to produce wines of both muscular intensity and haunting elegance.

In 2015, the estate entered a new chapter when Matthew Fioretti took over from Diego Molinari. Rather than reinventing Cerbaiona, Fioretti has worked to preserve its identity while bringing renewed precision to the vineyards and cellar. Since 2016, the estate has undertaken a major vineyard renewal project, including the revival of alberello, or bush-trained vines—an ancient pruning system now rare in Montalcino. This work reflects Cerbaiona’s commitment to authenticity, biodiversity, and the long-term health of its vineyards.