In the heart of Tuscany, where rolling hills meet medieval villages and historic castles, lies a place that holds one of the wine world's most fascinating stories. Castello di Brolio, home to the Ricasoli winery, is not just an architectural masterpiece – it is also the birthplace of one of the world’s oldest wine estates.
Since 1141, the Ricasoli family has shaped and defined Italian wine tradition. With over 900 years of history, Ricasoli is more than just a winery – it’s an icon, and its greatest star is undoubtedly Baron Bettino Ricasoli, the creator of the original Chianti recipe.
Origins and History
The story of Ricasoli begins nearly a millennium ago when the Ricasoli family acquired Castello di Brolio and its surrounding vineyards. Even then, there was an awareness that the fertile soil and warm climate of Tuscany could produce something exceptional – something that would develop into one of the world’s most famous wine regions, Chianti.
Over the centuries, Castello di Brolio has been more than just a place for winemaking; it has also been a strategic fortress. The Ricasoli family survived wars, plagues, and political upheavals, and through it all, their passion for winemaking remained steadfast.
Bettino Ricasoli – The Architect of Chianti
It wasn’t until the 19th century that Ricasoli cemented its name in history. Baron Bettino Ricasoli, a prominent politician and winemaker, made a groundbreaking discovery. In 1872, he created the original recipe for Chianti Classico, a wine that would define the region and the entire Italian wine industry. Bettino experimented with different grape blends and found that the local Sangiovese grape, combined with small amounts of Canaiolo and Malvasia, produced a balanced and elegant wine.
This wine embodied everything that Tuscany stood for – the strength of the land, the warmth of the sun, and the weight of history. Ricasoli became not only a symbol of Chianti but of the entire Italian wine industry. Bettino's vision of Chianti Classico lives on today and remains the foundation for the wine we know and love.
Innovation and Tradition
Today, under the leadership of Francesco Ricasoli, the winery continues to build on its rich history while adapting to the demands of the modern wine world. Ricasoli has always valued innovation without losing its roots in the Tuscan soil. Castello di Brolio is a place where history and technology meet – where traditional winemaking coexists with modern techniques to ensure the highest quality.
Their vineyards cover more than 1,200 hectares, with about 240 hectares dedicated to vineyards. Each plot is carefully studied to ensure that the right grape is planted in the right place. This care and attention to detail are what make Ricasoli wines so exceptional. They produce classic Tuscan wines such as Chianti Classico Riserva and Gran Selezione, but also modern wines that reflect contemporary Tuscany.
A Modern Castle with Deep Roots
Visiting Castello di Brolio is like stepping into a living time capsule. The castle, surrounded by vineyards as far as the eye can see, is a reminder of the family’s long history and their influence on Italian winemaking. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, explore the castle’s museums, and, of course, taste Ricasoli’s legendary wines.
The castle has also become a gathering place for modern wine enthusiasts and sommeliers looking to experience something unique. It’s a place where every cork pulled from a bottle is a bridge to the past, a reminder of the centuries of expertise and craftsmanship behind every drop of wine.
The Future of Ricasoli
Despite its long history, Ricasoli shows no signs of slowing down. Under Francesco’s leadership, the winery has continued to explore new ways to improve its wines and set new standards of quality. Through a combination of sustainable farming methods, careful research, and a relentless pursuit of perfection, Ricasoli remains at the forefront of the Italian wine industry.
Ricasoli's goal is not only to produce exceptional wines but also to preserve and nurture Tuscan tradition for future generations. And with nearly 1,000 years of winemaking behind them, it’s clear that Ricasoli still has much more to offer.
A Wine and a Story to Treasure
Ricasoli is more than just a winery – it is a symbol of Italian history, culture, and passion. Through every bottle, a story is told that spans centuries, a tale of tradition, innovation, and a deep love for wine. Just as each cork in a bottle of wine is a reminder of the moment, at Corkframes, we believe that your wine memories should live on and find a home.
Every bottle opened represents a moment to remember, and just as Ricasoli's legacy carries stories of generations, we let the history of the wine continue in the form of a unique artwork on your wall.
As Bettino Ricasoli once said: "Wine is not just a drink – it's a story." And with a Corkframe, these stories live on – one cork at a time.
