Don Luigi Riserva

Don Luigi Riserva is the flagship Montepulciano of Molise’s leading estate, Di Majo Norante—a wine that masterfully balances power with elegance. Awarded the highest distinction of 5 Grappoli by Bibenda, this exceptional cuvée showcases the estate’s philosophy of transforming full-bodied wines into refined, food-friendly expressions.

Sourced from vineyards in the Martarosa district at 100 meters above sea level, the vines are planted on limestone-rich soils that lend structure, depth, and a firm backbone to the wine. High-density planting (4,400 vines per hectare) ensures excellent concentration in the grapes. The wine undergoes an extended maceration of about one month, followed by 12 months of aging in new French oak barriques and an additional 12 months in bottle before release.

In the glass, Don Luigi Riserva reveals a deep garnet color with violet hues. The nose is rich and complex, where ripe dark fruit harmonizes beautifully with notes of toasted oak and vanilla. On the palate, it is full-bodied and intensely flavored, yet remarkably polished, with a well-defined structure and a lingering, elegant finish. It pairs superbly with roasted meats, game, and aged cheeses.

This wine was born from a collaboration with renowned Italian consultant Riccardo Cotarella, created as a new expression of Montepulciano. It is dedicated to two generations of Luigi—the father and son of Alessio Di Majo Norante—giving the wine both personal and symbolic significance.

Di Majo Norante itself is a historic, family-run estate dating back to the 1800s in Campobasso, Molise. After a revival in the 1960s, the winery has grown into one of the region’s most important producers. Under Alessio’s leadership, the estate spans around 110 hectares of organically farmed vineyards, certified by ICEA since 2000. By combining traditional varieties with modern techniques and expert consultation, the winery consistently delivers wines of outstanding quality and remarkable value.

With critical acclaim—including 92 points from Antonio Galloni and 91 points from James Suckling for the 2017 vintage—Don Luigi Riserva stands as a benchmark for Molise wines: rich, structured, and deeply expressive, yet always guided by elegance and drinkability.