The castle of Brolio, in the heart of Tuscany

Brolio Castle represents a significant chapter in Italy's rich history. Its origins date back to the eleventh century, when it was a bastion in the struggle between Florence and Siena. Passed into the hands of the Ricasoli family in 1141, it saw the birth of historical figures such as Baron Bettino Ricasoli, who not only led Italian politics as Prime Minister but also wrote a fundamental page in the history of wine, formulating the original recipe for Chianti. The walls of the castle tell stories of battles, politics and passion for the land and its fruits. The castle today presents itself as an enchanting mix of architectural styles, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance and Neo-Gothic, offering visitors a unique overview of Italy's artistic and cultural history. This wonderful structure not only bears witness to the layered historical and artistic changes, but is also a privileged destination for those who wish to deepen their knowledge of Tuscany's cultural heritage.

Castello di Brolio plays a fundamental role in the history of viticulture, especially in the creation and development of the renowned Chianti wine. The key figure in this process was Baron Bettino Ricasoli, who in the nineteenth century not only elaborated the original formula of this famous wine, but also laid the foundations for the evolution of the modern wine industry. His vision has transformed wine production from a traditional art into a scientific process, enhancing the specificities of the terroir and grape varieties. Over the centuries, Castello di Brolio's cellar has skilfully combined innovation and tradition. While honoring ancient winemaking practices, it also adopted modern technologies and advanced winemaking techniques. This balance between past and future is reflected in the exceptional quality of its wines, which are appreciated both locally and internationally. For wine lovers like myself, Castello di Brolio offers unique wine experiences. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in guided tastings, where they can savor the wide range of wines produced. These tastings are not only a pleasure for the palate, but also an educational journey that reveals the secrets of viticulture and winemaking. Every sip of wine is an expression of the castle's rich history and its ongoing dedication to quality and excellence.

Brolio Castle is more than just a tourist attraction; It is a beating heart of Tuscan culture. With its thousand-year history, its importance in the history of wine, and its architectural beauty, it offers a unique experience that connects visitors with the history, culture, and traditions of Italy. Walking through its walls, exploring the vineyards and tasting the wines,  like I had the pleasure of doing, you can truly understand the essence of Tuscany. The Castello di Brolio is not just a place to visit, but an experience to be lived, a journey through time that leaves an indelible imprint in the hearts of those who discover it.

Francesco Ricasoli, on the occasion of his thirtieth anniversary at the helm of the family business, puts his signature on a white wine of great perspective. Maceration in cocciopesto, time and refined drinkability make it an important wine. Although it is often complicated to make international markets understand how Italy's wine does not only dress in red, a winery (and a dynasty) historically known for its Chianti Classico chooses to recover Trebbiano grapes to give life to a new label that winks at the contemporary. Castello di Brolio's new Sanbarnaba bears the signature of Francesco Ricasoli, who this year celebrates thirty years at the helm of the family estate. "White wines represent a great tradition for our family and for the company – the baron points out – just think that our Torricella was one of the first Italian whites designed to be long-lived. Still on whites, we started experimenting 10 years ago to experiment with more or less extreme vinifications with various grape varieties, but in the end we went back in the footsteps of our ancestors and chose Trebbiano». And just to leave no room for doubt about the centrality of this new project, he is already announcing the next steps. "At the moment we have bottled 5,600 Bordeaux wines and 50 magnums of just over one hectare," he remarks, "and as soon as possible we will make new plantings with these plants that have Brolio in their DNA."

Wine experts think this Central Italy White wine would be a match made in heaven with this  dish.

Mix of cold cuts: salami, cooked or raw prosciutto, coppa, salami, cooked salami or bacon.

Ricasoli Castello di Brolio Sanbarnaba Bianco

It has taken a decade for Ricasoli’s new baby San Barnaba – a white wine made from 100% Trebbiano – to reach commercial standards. And sommeliers should be welcoming it with open arms, writes Peter Dean, who heralds it as yet another great new Italian white wine – and one that proves the Trebbiano naysayers as wrong. 

Tasting note

Rich yellow color. Intoxicating, aromas of ripe apples, grapefruit, apricot. Very full body, very rich, but not fat. Age worthy for 10+ years.