Angelo Gaja is probably one of the greatest names in Italian winemaking. Born in 1940, he took over the family vineyard in 1961 in the hilly Langhe region of the Piedmont which can trace its roots back to 1859. He now manages approximately 100 hectares of wines and does not buy in any grapes. Gaja was instrumental in raising the international profile of fine Piedmontese wines, notably Barbarescos and Barolos, with his distinctive use of new vinification techniques and ageing methods, at odds with regional practices at the time: choosing the best parcels, reducing yields, and using new French oak casks instead of Yugoslavian oak barrels. His best Barbaresco parcels now produce some of the finest wines in Italy (Sori Tildin, Sori San Lorenzo, and Costa Russi). He was also the first winegrower to plant Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay, as well as Sauvignon Blanc instead of Nebbiolo, contrary to the advice of his peers.

The Pieve Santa Restituta Brunello di Montalcino takes its name from the Pieve Santa Restituta church at the heart of this parcel, which itself is located at the centre of the Montalcino appellation, often associated with the highest quality. This cuvée was first created for the 2005 vintage. It has a deep ruby-red colour and a very expressive bouquet with aromas of red berries, woodland fruits and juniper. The palate delivers ripe tannins and a rich structure, with well-integrated acidity and a long finish.