gianfranco soldera

Gianfranco Soldera is one of the most revered names in Montalcino, producing some of the most distinctive and sought-after expressions of Sangiovese. His winery, Case Basse, is a testament to his uncompromising vision—an estate that values nature, tradition, and the art of patient winemaking. Planted in 1972, the vineyard is managed with organic and sustainable practices, fostering an ecosystem where vines thrive without chemical intervention.

At the core of Soldera’s philosophy is the belief that great wine is made in the vineyard. The estate’s exceptional terroir—characterized by galestro-rich soils and a temperate microclimate—allows for slow, balanced ripening. In the cellar, Soldera employs a purist approach: long macerations, natural fermentations, and extended aging in large Slavonian oak casks. No shortcuts, no modern embellishments—just the purest expression of Sangiovese, refined over years.

What sets Soldera’s wines apart is their depth, longevity, and elegance. Unlike many modern Brunellos, which lean towards power and extraction, Soldera’s wines are ethereal, layered, and built for aging. They unfold slowly over time, revealing intricate aromatics of wild herbs, red berries, spice, and earth. Each bottle is a living reflection of vintage and terroir, meant to evolve over decades.

Though Gianfranco Soldera’s name is synonymous with Brunello di Montalcino, he famously distanced himself from the DOCG in later years, choosing instead to label his wines under Toscana IGT to maintain full creative freedom. This decision underscores his relentless pursuit of quality and authenticity, free from external constraints. Today, Soldera Case Basse remains a benchmark for collectors and purists, standing as one of the greatest expressions of Sangiovese in the world.