Ardingo is made from 70% Merlot and 30% Sangiovese. The Merlot vineyard - Vigna Montosoli - which was planted about 30 years ago, is just 7 kilometers away from Costanti's main vineyards in upper Montalcino and is 350 meters above sea level, just a bit lower than Costanti's other vineyards. The vineyard is located north/northeast of Montalcino on the Montosoli hill and enjoys western exposure and clay soil. The Sangiovese comes from a vineyard Andrea owns on the same hill. The wine is named for Ardengo della Gherardesca (seen written 'Ardingo' in some places), who was a valiant knight from the Longobard family of the same name who fought the Florentines alongside the Sienese 800 years ago. Perfect for this powerful wine.