Castellina in Chianti
Siena always in view
Castellina in Chianti is located around 15 kilometers northwest of Siena and 35 kilometers south of Florence, right in the heart of Chianti Classico. The charming little town can be seen from afar, perched high up on a hill, as you drive along the famous Chiantigiana (SS 222). The landscape around Castellina is characterized by impressive differences in altitude: from 180 to 626 m above sea level. From the top of the hill, there is a breathtaking view that stretches as far as Siena. The endless vineyards on gentle hills immediately catch the eye.
Home of great wines
Castellina in Chianti is a real paradise for wine lovers. The municipality is home to countless renowned wineries, including names such as Castello di Fonterutoli (pictured above), Castellare di Castellina, Buondonno, Nittardi, San Fabiano Calcinaia, Castello La Leccia, Casa Emma and Pomona - to name just a few highlights. Not to be forgotten is the Antico Podere Gagliole winery, located just outside Castellina. Here, the Swiss Bär-Bettschart family cultivate their vines on ten hectares surrounded by picturesque cypress trees and produce some of their wines. And then there is Tregole, another gem, which is probably located at one of the highest points in Castellina. In addition to first-class wines, this winery offers a view you won't soon forget.
Wineries in Castellina in Chianti
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Gagliole
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Tregole
Pure Tuscany feeling
Castellina in Chianti is a small town with a great history, right in the heart of the Chianti Classico region. Between rolling hills, vineyards and olive groves, you can experience real Tuscan flair here. Stroll through the medieval Via delle Volte or Via Ferruccio, enjoy breathtaking views and indulge in cozy cafés and regional delicacies. You can discover beautiful handicrafts in the small stores in the town, while the best wines in the region await you in the enotecas. A real insider tip for gourmets is the excellent Macelleria Stiaccini, known for its Chianina beef - perfect for the legendary Bistecca Fiorentina.
Pentecoste wine festival
The Via delle Volte in Castellina is a medieval walkway along the old town walls that combines history and Tuscan flair. Once built for defense, today it invites you to take a stroll in a romantic atmosphere. Small windows and loopholes offer breathtaking views of vineyards and hills, while restaurants and stores along the corridor offer regional specialties. A highlight is the "Pentecoste a Castellina" wine festival on Pentecost weekend, where winegrowers present their best wines, accompanied by delicacies and a festive atmosphere. On Friday evening, an exclusive dinner takes place directly in Via delle Volte, celebrating Tuscan cuisine in an extraordinary setting.
Associazione Viticoltori di Castellina in Chianti
The Castellina Winegrowers' Association was founded in 2003 to promote and protect the wine producers of Castellina in Chianti. Today it has 39 members who produce internationally recognized wines. Castellina in Chianti is located in the province of Siena and extends over 9,980 hectares, of which around 1,682 hectares are planted with vines. This makes it the municipality with the largest vineyard area in the entire Chianti Classico region. It is worth noting that a large proportion of the vineyards are cultivated organically or are in the process of conversion, which underlines the winegrowers' commitment to sustainable practices.
Art and history in Castellina in Chianti
The parish church of Castellina in Chianti impresses with its art and history. After being rebuilt in the 20th century, it houses highlights such as a fresco by Bicci di Lorenzo, a Renaissance statue of St. Barnabas and a richly decorated urn with the relics of the patron saint Faustus. A Renaissance ciborium, a 17th century crucifix and a modern organ make it a cultural jewel in the heart of Chianti. Another historical gem awaits just outside the town: the Etruscan tombs on Monte Calvario. This extraordinary burial site from the 6th century BC consists of four underground chambers facing in all directions. They tell of the long history of the region and are definitely worth a visit.
Ristorante Albergaccio di Castellina
The restaurant is a real gem in the heart of Chianti Classico and one of my absolute favorites. The terrace offers a breathtaking view both at lunchtime and in the evening. I'm also drawn there in winter, as the open fireplace inside makes for an incomparably cozy atmosphere. Culinary delights at the Albergaccio are a skillful combination of traditional Tuscan cuisine and creative lightness. Each dish is not only a highlight in terms of taste, but is also presented in an artistic manner - after all, you eat with your eyes. Thanks to the great kitchen and service team, every visit is an unforgettable experience.
For today's podcast episode, I'm visiting the Fattoria e Villa di Rignana winery in Panzano in Chianti and Cosimo Gericke, the owner, is sitting by my side.