For many years the medieval hamlet of Monteraponi in Radda in Chianti was low-key, rural and rustic, with vineyards rented rather than farmed by the family. Since Michele and his wife Alessandra took on the project to make their own wine, Monteraponi has soared in importance. The estate covers 200 hectares set in a natural south-facing amphitheater, with forests covering most of the land, and vineyards on only 12 hectares. A respectful, low-intervention approach prevails: certified organic viticulture, and in the winery, spontaneous fermentations in non-temperature controlled vats. Wines are bottled after natural settling, without fining or filtration. The elegant Monteraponi wines reflect their higher elevation sites and the incredible care for each parcel and wine. The family have preserved the historic hamlet buildings as holiday farm apartments.