Barone Ricasoli
Barone Ricasoli is a cornerstone of Italian winemaking, celebrated as Italy’s oldest winery and the fourth-oldest wine estate in the world, with a history tracing back nearly 1,000 years. Renowned for its innovation and tradition, the estate is a benchmark for the Chianti Classico region.
History of Barone Ricasoli
The Ricasoli estate is deeply intertwined with the history of Tuscany and Italian viticulture. The first documented mention of the Ricasoli family dates back to 1141, when the Castello di Brolio came under their control. This medieval fortress, strategically located in the Chianti region, became a symbol of their influence and legacy.
By 1584, historical records specifically referenced the Ricasoli family's wine production. In the 17th century, the estate began exporting its wines to Amsterdam and England, underscoring its growing importance in the international wine trade.
The 19th century marked a defining era under Bettino Ricasoli, famously known as the "Iron Baron." A prominent political figure, Bettino served as Italy’s Prime Minister twice during the 1860s and played a vital role in shaping the newly unified nation. However, his most enduring legacy lies in his work as a winemaker. He crafted the original Chianti Classico formula, focusing on Sangiovese as the core varietal, believing it best reflected the terroir of the region. His pioneering approach elevated Chianti to international acclaim and established it as a benchmark for Italian winemaking.
Today, under the leadership of Francesco Ricasoli, a direct descendant of Bettino, the estate continues to innovate while honoring its historic roots. Francesco has spearheaded extensive research into the estate’s diverse soils and unique Sangiovese clones, revitalized the vineyards, and modernized winemaking practices, ensuring the enduring excellence of Barone Ricasoli wines.
Region and Vineyards
The Ricasoli estate spans an impressive 1,200 hectares, making it the largest estate in Chianti Classico, with 230 hectares dedicated to vineyards and 26 hectares to olive groves. Situated between Gaiole and Castelnuovo Berardenga, the estate benefits from diverse landscapes, soils, and microclimates, including:
- Macigno del Chianti (sandstone): Promotes minerality and finesse.
- Scaglia Toscana (Galestro): Adds structure and complexity.
- Monte Morello (Alberese): Enhances elegance and freshness.
The vineyards’ altitudes range from 400 to 490 meters above sea level, providing ideal conditions for producing balanced and aromatic wines.
Wine Range of Barone Ricasoli
Barone Ricasoli produces a wide spectrum of wines, with highlights including:
- Chianti Classico Gran Selezione: Iconic wines like Castello di Brolio and Colledilà, representing the pinnacle of Sangiovese expressions.
- Torricella Chardonnay: A distinctive Tuscan white, showcasing innovation in Chianti.
- Olive Oils: Premium extra virgin olive oils from estate groves.
Did you know?
The Castello di Brolio, a medieval fortress at the heart of the estate, has been the center of Ricasoli’s winemaking legacy. It also served as a battleground for conflicts between Florence and Siena, preserving centuries of history and character.
