At the end of the 1990s, the Bolfo family began renovations on the ruins of a 17C convent and its surrounding vineyards within the UGA of Castelnuovo Berardenga, to the Siena end of the Chianti Classico area. 

The estate is quite large – 265 hectares including 105 hectares under vine – with various terroirs but generally a comparatively high altitude at between 380 and 440m above sea level. The soil therefore less alluvial than much of the region, with more limestone, schist and alberese gravel/sand. The soil type and altitude deliver wines with more lifted perfume and leaner structure than our other Chianti wines. The estate is sustainably run, with the expansive grounds housing an extensive and diverse ecosystem, a gradual progression to the abolition of herbicides and a modern, gravity-flow winery.

Alessandro Cellai is the winemaker here, bringing even more hype to what is already a very exciting project. Previously awarded Decanter’s ‘Star of Tomorrow’, and with over 80 Gambero Rosso ‘Tre Bicchieri’ ratings under his belt, he also brings extensive experience with alternative varietals in the region. Forbes Magazine has said “I am predicting big things to emerge from Vallepicciola over the next few years”, while Gambero Rosso stated this is “one of the most important wineries in the area”. This is not just due to the fragrant, almost etherial Chianti wines, but a new era of Super-Tuscans, including Cabernet/Sangiovese blends, Chardonnay and Pinot Nero.

For more information please visit www.vallepicciola.com