Castello d'Albola
History of the winery
The medieval village of Castello d'Albola stands on top of the splendid Chianti hills in the borough of Radda in Chianti; it is quite unique for its fascinating history, works of art and unique position in such a wonderful agricultural landscape of unsurpassed harmony. It has belonged to some of the most aristocratic families in Tuscany, from the Acciaioli, the Samminiati and the Pazzi to the Ginori Conti, until, in 1979, it became the property of the Zonin family, which has devoted constant care to the estate for over thirty years.
Farm Holiday Accomodation
Castello d’Albola offers two different forms of accommodation to ensure that its guests can count on the maximum hospitality and comfort. The first possibility is that of staying in 18th century Villa Le Marangole, a house rich in charm and elegance, with a magnificent view over the vineyards of the estate lying right in the middle of the Chianti area. The villa can sleep up to twelve people.
The second historic residence available for tourists and wine lovers is 16th century Villa Crognole, which has been recently restored in full respect of its original architecture and can sleep up to six people. Both villas have their own swimming pool for the exclusive use of their guests.
Wine Tours
Wine Tours
Castello d'Albola is an ideal place for people wanting to stay in a unique environment like the Chianti Classico area, people who are keen to experience its history, taste the great wines of this renowned farm and enjoy the fascination of this terrain. Guests can also visit the farm’s historic cellars and, at the end of the tour, taste the wines and extra virgin olive oil produced on the estate. Tours of the ancient village are held daily from 12 noon to 5 pm from April to November. It is possible to organize events, wine tasting and customised activities on prior reservation, which can also be combined with menus based on the typical Tuscan cuisine. Castello d’Albola is a perfect starting point for discovering the famous cities of Tuscany, like Siena and Florence, and the wonderful Gallo Nero or Black Cockerel area.
Castello d'Albola Wines
For several years Ives Glories, dean of the faculty of oenology at the University of Bordeaux, was the Castle of Selvole’s oenologist. Glories was also responsible for planting another 8 hectares with French vine cuttings, for important technical improvements in the cellars and for his shrewd introduction of the use of barriques. When Glories died, he left a great personal void and technical knowledge behind him. However another improvement in quality followed in his footsteps with Gianni Menotti, awarded winemaker of Italy for two years running. His method is as follows: a clear separation of the various varieties of grape and a fermentation adapted to suit the vintages achieves sharp, clean wines that are pleasant to drink, but also intense and typical.
He keeps on repeating that the Selvole wines must contain the Chianti Classico sunshine and the mineral qualities of its terroir. A simplicity and intensity that are characteristic of the products of Selvole and a tribute to its territory. The farm, which produces wines only from its own grapes, has two lines, one of Chianti Classico (Chianti Classico vintage, Reserve, Gran Selezione), and the line of single-variety vines (Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc and Merlot). The Barullo, the farm’s super Tuscan, tops the pyramid and is made from a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc in the Bordeaux style, with 10% of Sangiovese to give it an extra touch of acidity.
He keeps on repeating that the Selvole wines must contain the Chianti Classico sunshine and the mineral qualities of its terroir. A simplicity and intensity that are characteristic of the products of Selvole and a tribute to its territory. The farm, which produces wines only from its own grapes, has two lines, one of Chianti Classico (Chianti Classico vintage, Reserve, Gran Selezione), and the line of single-variety vines (Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc and Merlot). The Barullo, the farm’s super Tuscan, tops the pyramid and is made from a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc in the Bordeaux style, with 10% of Sangiovese to give it an extra touch of acidity.
