Castello di Albola, Tuscany, Italy
Castello di Albola, Tuscany, Italy
Castello di Albola, Tuscany, Italy
The medieval village of Castello di Albola is nestled in the heart of Tuscany, perched atop the picturesque hills of the Chianti Classico region. Its historical charm and stunning landscape create an unparalleled setting that captivates visitors. At the summit of the hill stands a magnificent Renaissance villa flanked by two majestic turrets, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside and the meticulously terraced vineyards that cascade down its slopes.
Throughout its storied past, Castello di Albola has been in the hands of esteemed Tuscan families, including the Acciaioli, Samminiati, Pazzi, and Ginori Conti. Since 1979, it has been under the ownership of the Zonin family, who have preserved its legacy with dedication and care.
Encompassing approximately 900 hectares, with 110 hectares dedicated to vineyards, Castello di Albola occupies a privileged position among the highest hills of Chianti Classico. The vineyards, perched between 400 and 680 meters above sea level, benefit from a unique microclimate and significant temperature variations, ideal for producing exceptional wines that reflect the terroir and heritage of the region.
Among the vineyards, the 'Vignale' stands out as the oldest, planted in 1987 and spanning nearly 3 hectares. This vineyard is home to the only international grape variety at Castello di Albola, the Cabernet Sauvignon, which is blended with the indigenous Sangiovese to create the renowned Super Tuscan Acciaiolo IGT.
Named after the influential Florentine family of Acciaiuoli, the wine pays homage to Lodovico Acciaiuoli, who laid the foundation for the estate in the 15th century. The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese embodies a rich history and a dedication to crafting wines of exceptional quality that age gracefully over time.
The old vines of Castello di Albola in the Chianti Classico territory hold a unique and invaluable place in its appellation. The Vignale vineyard has weathered the test of time developping a deep, intricate root systems that gives it a special connection to the terroir. This connection allows to draw rich, complex flavors and aromas from the soil, resulting in wines of exceptional depth and character.
Furthermore, the old vines play a crucial role in preserving the biodiversity of the Chianti Classico territory. Their deep roots help prevent soil erosion and promote a healthy ecosystem that supports a variety of plant and animal species. By maintaining these vineyards, Castello di Albola is not only producing exceptional wines but also contributing to the conservation of the natural environment.
The winemaker and manager of Castello di Albola, Alessandro Gallo, emphasizes the vineyard's commitment to sustainable practices, ensuring low yields and meticulous grape selection to achieve wines of complexity and longevity. The estate's dedication to sustainable development is reflected in its annual Sustainability Report, outlining its efforts to promote economic growth, social well-being, and environmental conservation in harmony with its surroundings.
