CASTELLO DI BROLIO - RICASOLI 1141

Owned by the Ricasoli family since 1141, the castle of Brolio, located about ten kilometers south of Gaiole, stands atop an isolated hill in the heart of the perfect meanders of the Chianti. Its history was eventful, especially because of its proximity to Siena, the sworn enemy of Florence.

The visit includes the family chapel, dedicated to St. James (1316), its crypt, the gardens and the walkway, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, from which the bell towers and towers of the city of Siena stand out. It's beautiful! The interior of the castle is not open to the public, except by reservation, during interesting guided tours, which are fascinating to discover this famous microcosm of wine.

After several years in politics, the baron, back in Brolio, became involved in the agricultural and wine-making life of his estate, putting to good use all the knowledge he had accumulated since childhood. And so, after many experiments, in 1872 the Chianti Classico as we know it today was born, produced mainly with the elegant Sangiovese grape.

Baron Bettino Ricasoli died in Brolio on October 23, 1880 and is buried in the family chapel, where it is possible to meditate in front of this great man who marked the history of his country.

Today, the wines of Brolio Castle are ranked among the best in Italy. The prestigious estate of 240 hectares of vineyards produces wines that are not to be missed, with a powerful nose and a full texture (to be discovered at the wine library). The Ricasoli family winery is the oldest in Italy and the fourth oldest wine producing family in the world! Today, Francesco Ricasoli, the thirty-second Baron of Ricasoli, continues the activity of the vineyard, perpetuating the quality of the great wines of Brolio.