Five Bibenda Bunch Awards 2026 to the Brunello di Montalcino DOC 2021
The highest recognition of Five Bunch by Bibenda Guide 2026 to Brunello di Montalcino DOC 2021
Roberto Cipresso is an internationally acclaimed Italian winemaker with over 35 years of experience. He built his reputation in Tuscany's Montalcino, managing top estates like Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona and founding Fattoria La Fiorita.
"Best Italian Winemaker (2025)"
Cipresso is best known for his Brunello di Montalcino wines and for elevating Argentine Malbec; his work at Bodega Achaval-Ferrer produced the famed "Altamira" Malbec in Mendoza.
A pioneer of blending art and science in the cellar, Cipresso has also written books on wine and champions the philosophy that great vineyards (often in difficult sites) make great wine.
The California Project is born from the convergence of two worlds: the artisanal Italian winemaking sensibility of Roberto Cipresso and the innovative vision of Matt Bornski. They chose to focus on the Central Coast because they believe it represents the new frontier for Pinot Noir, a varietal that offers the most compelling challenge to a modern winemaker.
Their exploration led them to select three exceptional micro-terroirs, where extreme conditions allow them to craft wines of extraordinary character.
Santa Cruz Mountains: Chosen for its heroic elegance, born from vines that thrive in high-altitude challenges.
Chalone: Selected for its historic depth, rooted in a vigorous and ancient terroir.
Cienega Valley (Eden Rift): Sought after for its unmistakable mineral energy, derived from limestone-rich soils.
California
Central Coast
"No place on earth offers as much promise for Pinot Noir."
"The overarching goal is to create wines that are the pure and authentic expression of these unique locations, ultimately defining a new chapter for Californian viticulture."
Step into the visionary world of Roberto Cipresso. Our tasting room is a gateway to experiencing firsthand the nuance and character of our pioneering viticulture.
Explore Depth: Discover guided tastings that unveil the secrets of micro-vinifications and curated flights that daringly pair our distinct California Pinot with renowned Brunello benchmarks.
Our portfolio offers a rare opportunity to taste the full breadth of Roberto's genius. The selection spans his celebrated Italian expressions—including the iconic Quadratura del Cerchio, Pigreco, and I Punti—alongside our distinct California Pinots. Soon, the collection will expand to feature new, highly anticipated selections from Italy and around the world.
Come experience the life and work of Roberto Cipresso.
Membership unlocks curated shipments, cellar-only releases, and prior access to Cipresso's Wine Collection so you can experience each vintage before anyone else. Enjoy the following exclusive benefits:
The highest recognition of Five Bunch by Bibenda Guide 2026 to Brunello di Montalcino DOC 2021
It is with great pleasure that I wish to invite you to two events to celebrate the launch of our much-awaited California Pinot Noir offerings
The Hospices de Beaune wine auction is both the world’s oldest charity wine auction, and a cultural touchstone for the Burgundy wine trade