Casato Prime Donne: the Vision of Donatella Cinelli Colombini between Vineyard, Art and Brunello di Montalcino
Just outside Montalcino lies Casato Prime Donne, a place where wine meets art and time seems to slow down. An intimate and relaxing corner of Tuscany that tells a story of passion, vision and identity.
At the heart of this project stands Donatella Cinelli Colombini, a legendary figure in Italian wine. She is the woman who changed the wine world by choosing to employ only women in her winery. An act that may be seen as feminism, but above all a clear cultural and professional statement.
My own experience has been different: I spent my entire professional life in a predominantly male environment. Yes, many issues still remain to be addressed, but I must say that I have always been treated with respect. For this reason, I prefer to turn the page and focus on what truly defines this estate: the vineyard.
The guiding principle of Casato Prime Donne is expressed in a simple and powerful motto:
“The vineyard first.”
In my opinion, this philosophy represents the entire territory of Montalcino. I have never seen vineyards cared for with such passion, precision and love as here. Every row of vines reflects dedication and respect for nature. Healthy grapes are the foundation of every great wine, and in the end, the glass confirms all this silent work.
The tasting room at Casato Prime Donne is an intimate space filled with memories, awards and photographs. Despite the many objects and testimonials from the past, it maintains a warm and welcoming atmosphere. One immediately feels at ease, more like a guest in a home than in a winery.
The tasting journey began with the fresh and vibrant, perfect as an aperitif and an ideal introduction to the style of the estate.
Next came Cenerentola 2021, a wine that immediately reveals the presence of Foglia Tonda, an indigenous Tuscan grape variety. It is slightly rustic, yet undeniably intriguing, expressing strong character and territorial identity.
The Brunello di Montalcino 2020 appeared deep and intense, with notes of sour cherry and forest floor, confirming the classic structure and elegance of this great wine.
Particularly fascinating was the Brunello di Montalcino Prime Donne 2020, more fruit-driven than the previous one, with aromas of cherry, blackberry and spices. It is aged mainly in large oak barrels.
Its uniqueness also lies in the selection process: alongside the oenologist Valérie Lavigne, four international tasters take part in its creation — the Swedish Madeleine Stenwreth, the English Rosemary George, the German Astrid Schwarz and the Italian Daniela Scrobogna.
The grapes come from a vineyard over 25 years old, planted on predominantly clay soils.
The Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2019 is still closed and needs time: a wine to wait for at least five more years to fully express its potential.
Very different was the impression left by the Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 2013: soft, round, savory and elegant. A mature and expressive wine that tells the story of Brunello’s evolution over time. It was undoubtedly the wine that impressed me the most during the tasting.
Casato Prime Donne is not just a winery, but a cultural project that unites wine, art and a feminine vision. A place where the tradition of Montalcino meets a contemporary interpretation built on sensitivity, precision and respect for the land.
An experience that once again confirms that great wine is born first in the vineyard… and then in the heart of those who create it.
