Montepulciano winery reveals Pliocene-era marine fossils

Fossils dating back to the Pliocene epoch, between 5.3 and 2.6 million years ago, have been identified in the underground galleries of the Talosa Historical Winery in Montepulciano, Tuscany. These fossils, which include shells, bivalves, and traces of other marine organisms, serve as evidence of a shallow sea that once covered much of the region.

The geological history of this ancient seabed directly influences the local viticulture. The marine sands and clays that form the fossil bed also constitute the foundation of Talosa’s 33 hectares of vineyards in the Pietrose area. These specific soil compositions are noted for their ability to mitigate climate variations and contribute to the structure and acidity of Sangiovese grapes used in Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wines.