Wine and Whales
Does the surprise find explain the appeal of Brunello di Montalcino wine?
"It reminds us that this rich soil is composed of nutrients and minerals deposited millions of years ago," Cristina Mariani, owner of Castello Banfi's vineyards, told BBC News.
"It's that special earth that gives complexity to our wines."
Mariani has asked Italy's Department of Cultural Heritage for permission to host the fossil and display it to the public in Banfi's museum.
But excavation supervisor Bisconti is more skeptical.
"I don't know the secret of the quality of Brunello di Montalcino wine," he said, "but I think the whale skeleton shouldn't take the credit."
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