Long lunches, sea breezes, and Morellino

More wine regions continue to appear on our horizon at Picnic Table Italy, and this week I spent two full days exploring the beautiful Morellino di Scansano D.O.C.G. wine region. Nestled on the rolling slopes of Monte Amiata and stretching toward the Tyrrhenian Sea, this corner of southern Tuscany offers a landscape where vineyards, olive groves, and Mediterranean breezes exist in perfect harmony.

From every angle, the influence of the sea is unmistakable. The salty air—salmastro, as we call it in our dialect—sweeps across the vineyards throughout the year, shaping the character of the wines. It is this maritime influence that gives the region's Vermentino its vibrant personality: crisp citrus notes, ripe stone fruit aromas, and that unmistakable saline finish that makes it such a natural companion to long summer lunches enjoyed under a shaded pergola.

The same coastal influence helps define Morellino di Scansano D.O.C.G., produced primarily from Sangiovese grapes. Bright, lively, and beautifully balanced, Morellino is often described as a first cousin to both Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti Classico. Its vibrant acidity and elegant structure make it a perfect partner for one of Tuscany's most iconic dishes: a thick-cut Fiorentina steak from the prized Chianina cattle of the Maremma, grilled over an open fire and shared around the table with family and friends.

The region is also home to an impressive range of producers. From small boutique wineries such as Terenzi, recognized multiple times with the prestigious Tre Bicchieri award from Gambero Rosso, to large cooperative wineries made up of more than 165 grower-members producing remarkable wines that faithfully express the territory.

Among the highlights of my visit was Tenuta Ammiraglia, the striking Maremma estate of the historic Frescobaldi Family. Architecturally stunning and seamlessly integrated into the landscape, the estate produces wines that capture the essence of the coast. Their elegant Rosé, crafted from Syrah and Vermentino, was particularly memorable—fresh, refined, and perfectly suited for an afternoon aperitivo that quietly stretches into the evening as conversations linger and the Tuscan sun slowly fades beyond the vineyards.

Morellino di Scansano continues to surprise and inspire. It remains one of Tuscany's hidden gems, where tradition, innovation, sea breezes, and authentic hospitality come together to create wines that tell the story of the Maremma with every glass.

Join us exploring Scansano on an exclusive small group tour or gather a group of friends and family and work with us to design your own trip. We have space available in September and October for private tours.