“A Magical Estate at the Picturesque Hill Town of San Gimignano”

POINTS OF INTEREST

• The soil originated from prehistoric ocean floor.
• Olivetan monks chose the site for the vineyard in 1340.
• The estate’s exclusive grape variety, Vernaccia, was the first wine to be awarded the DOC status in Italy.

ESTATE

Name: Abbazia Monte Oliveto derives its name from the medieval abbey, which lies atop an orchard hill.
Location: The estate is situated in the heart of the rolling hills in Siena, Tuscany, approximately one mile from the picturesque town of San Gimignano. The property has a total of 49 acres, 37 of which are dedicated to vineyards.
Elevation: 1,089 ft. above sea level
Soil: yellow sand and clay, marine in origin with good drainage
Climate: continental, 39°F – 41°F in the winter and 93°F in the summer
Training System: Cordon Spur
Vine Density: 2,500 vines per hectare
Varietals: Vernaccia di San Gimignano

HISTORICAL NOTES

Abbazia Monte Oliveto was originally an abbey built by the Olivetan monks in 1340. The monks cultivated Tuscany’s most highly prized olive varieties: Frantoio, Moraiolo, and Leccino, as well as the fames Vernaccia di San Gimignano varietal, which proces one of the most renowned white wines in Italy. These wines have been admired throughout history; the Italian poet Dante Alighieri even praised their excellence. Over the centuries, Abbazia Monte Oliveto has remained relatively unchanged. Today, the breathtaking view of San Gimignano’s towers can still be seen from the vineyards. The Zonin family acquired the property in 1981. Since then, they have been committed to preserving this historical landmark for future generations.