Description
History
Castello di Volpaia is located in the fortified medieval village of the same name, within the municipality of Radda in Chianti, one of the historic heartlands of Sangiovese production. The earliest written records mentioning Volpaia date back to 1172, when the village held an important strategic position along the border between Florence and Siena. Over the centuries, viticulture became an essential part of the area’s identity. Today, the estate, managed by the Stianti Mascheroni family, is one of Chianti Classico’s most respected producers, thanks to a philosophy centred on terroir expression, organic farming and a commitment to quality. One of the winery’s most fascinating features is its network of cellars housed within the village’s historic buildings, connected by a distinctive system of pipes that allows wine to be transferred while preserving the medieval architecture. The vineyards, situated mainly between 400 and 600 metres above sea level, benefit from significant day-night temperature variations and sandstone-rich soils, conditions that favour the production of fresh, elegant and age-worthy wines.
Grape variety
90% Sangiovese, 10% Merlot.
Vinification
The 2023 growing season began with a relatively warm and dry winter, followed by a cool and particularly wet spring. Heavy rainfall during May and June made vineyard management challenging, while summer warmth and some rain in late August helped the grapes complete their ripening. Harvesting was carried out by hand, with careful selection of the bunches. After picking, the grapes were vinified in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, with fermentation using indigenous yeasts and skin maceration to encourage the extraction of colour and aromatic compounds. The wine subsequently matured for 12 months in large oak casks of approximately 30 hectolitres. The use of these sizeable vessels allows gradual development while preserving Sangiovese’s freshness and enhancing the wine’s natural elegance.
Alcohol content
13.5%.
Tasting notes
Intense, bright ruby red with delicate violet reflections. The nose reveals a fragrant and refined bouquet dominated by cherry, sour cherry, raspberry and wild berries, complemented by elegant floral aromas of violet. With aeration, subtle nuances of black pepper, liquorice, aromatic herbs and woodland undergrowth emerge, adding depth and complexity. The palate is fresh, harmonious and juicy, with a well-defined structure supported by fine tannins and vibrant acidity. Fruit flavours integrate beautifully with delicate spicy sensations and a subtle mineral character, creating a balanced and persistent wine. The finish is long, elegant and slightly savoury, with lingering notes of cherry and spice. A Chianti Classico that perfectly captures the finesse and freshness typical of the vineyards around Radda in Chianti.
Food pairings
Volpaia Chianti Classico 2023 is an exceptionally versatile food wine, pairing beautifully with traditional Tuscan cuisine. It is ideal with chicken liver crostini, artisanal cured meats, Tuscan pecorino and pasta dishes with meat sauces. Excellent with pappardelle served with wild boar ragù, ribollita, Tuscan tomato and bread soup, and porcini mushroom risotto. Its balanced structure also makes it an excellent match for roast chicken, hunter-style rabbit, grilled steak and simply prepared red meats. It pairs particularly well with medium-aged cheeses and legume-based dishes. Best served at approximately 16-18 °C in generous wine glasses that allow its aromatic complexity to develop.
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