Pian dell'Orino
Pian dell'Orino is a small, biodynamic estate located in Montalcino, Tuscany, known for its terroir-driven Sangiovese and uncompromising commitment to purity and precision.
History of Pian dell'Orino
Pian dell'Orino was founded in 1996 by Caroline Pobitzer, an Italian entrepreneur from South Tyrol with deep roots in sustainable agriculture. In 2000, she was joined by Jan Erbach, a German-born winemaker trained in Burgundy and Geisenheim, who became both her partner in life and in the cellar. Together, they transformed the estate into one of Montalcino's most respected and quietly revolutionary producers.
From the outset, the duo envisioned a domaine-style winery that applied Burgundian principles to Tuscan terroir—particularly the idea of vinification parcellaire, or vinifying each plot separately to highlight its unique identity. The estate was one of the first in the region to implement certified biodynamic viticulture, embracing a holistic farming approach based on careful observation of the vines and lunar cycles.
Pian dell'Orino's production is extremely limited, often lower than the Brunello average, with yields kept well below 30 hL/ha. The estate vinifies without selected yeasts, enzymes, or any technological interventions. All wines undergo long ageing in large Stockinger casks, never barriques, to preserve purity and site expression. The estate's philosophy is one of minimal intervention, scientific precision, and poetic intuition, producing wines of rare finesse, energy, and transparency.
Region and Vineyards
Pian dell'Orino cultivates approximately 6 hectares of vineyards, situated between 320 and 500 metres above sea level, across five key parcels in Montalcino. These include the iconic Bassolino di Sopra, located on the southeastern slope of the hill, as well as Pian dell'Orino, Cancello Rosso, Piandorino, and Scopeta. Each plot differs in altitude, exposure, and soil type, allowing for a nuanced range of expressions of Sangiovese.
The soils vary from schistous siltstones and calcareous clays to volcanic composites, particularly those influenced by the ancient Monte Amiata. All plots are farmed biodynamically, with strict attention to biodiversity, soil vitality, and canopy management. Cover crops, composts, and natural preparations are employed to foster balance and resilience in the vineyard.
The region's cooler microclimate and consistent ventilation from the Libeccio and Tramontana winds allow for long ripening periods and naturally balanced acidity. Every vineyard is vinified separately to capture its essence, resulting in a terroir-led portfolio where each wine reflects its origin with remarkable clarity.
Wine Range of Pian dell'Orino
Pian dell'Orino produces a focused selection of wines, all based on 100% Sangiovese:
- Brunello di Montalcino Bassolino di Sopra: A single-vineyard cuvée from schistous soils; powerful, refined, and age-worthy.
- Brunello di Montalcino Vigneti del Versante: A blend from the estate's northeastern plots, offering elegance and aromatic purity.
- Rosso di Montalcino: A vibrant, youthful take on Sangiovese from select plots, vinified with the same care as the Brunello.
- Piandorino Toscana IGT: An approachable and fruit-forward expression of younger vines, ideal for early drinking.
Did you know?
Pian dell'Orino's wines are never fined, filtered, or made with added yeasts or enzymes. They also sort every berry by hand, one of the few estates in Italy to do so. This meticulous approach reflects the domaine's ethos: treat each vintage as a living entity, revealing the vineyard's voice with no makeup.
