Tucked into the sun-drenched hills of Montalcino lies a winery that makes you question whether heaven might just be a vineyard. Welcome to Castiglion del Bosco, a place where history, terroir and winemaking collide in a glorious Brunello-soaked celebration of Tuscan charm.
A Quick History (Because Every Good Bottle Has a Backstory)
Founded in 1100 AD—yes, that’s not a typo—Castiglion del Bosco is one of the oldest estates in Tuscany, and one of the founding members of the Brunello di Montalcino consortium. It was recently owned and restored by Massimo Ferragamo (of Ferragamo shoe fame), who turned the estate into a vinous Valhalla. Think restored hamlet, private golf course, and a wine locker room that would make Clooney cancel his Nespresso contract out of envy.
Today, the estate spans over 62 hectares of vines, with dramatic changes in elevation, from 300m to 430m above sea level, lending personality and complexity to each wine. The slopes are steep, the soils are varied, and the wines? Let’s dive in.
The Tasting Line-Up: Grapes, Glamour & Grit
We kicked things off with the two Rosso di Montalcinos: Campo del Drago’s feisty cousins, America and Deimassi. Both from younger vines, America had an easy, stainless-steel-aged charm—like the friend who always brings the playlist. Meanwhile, Deimassi got a touch of oak and some bottle time, offering more grip and spice.
A glass of each, a sliver of cheese, and you start to understand why Italians take three-hour lunches. Not quite my kind of wine—but a light, cheerful warm-up before the real stars of the show arrived. And as always, taste is personal.
Then came the Brunellos…
- Brunello di Montalcino 2018 – 2020: Bright acidity, structured tannins, and notes of red cherry and cigar box. Still young, but oh, the potential. Give it 10 years or pair with someone you really want to impress.
- Millecento Riserva 2016: Now we’re talking. With 3 years in French oak and 3 years in bottle, this wine is the suave Italian in a tailored suit—crunchy tannins, spicy finish, and enough elegance to silence a room.
- Prima Pietra 2021: A Super Tuscan from their coastal estate. Plush, ripe, and Bordeaux-like, with just enough Italian swagger to keep it interesting. It’s the “let’s-open-a-second-bottle” kind of red.
A Peek Behind the Barrel
We toured the estate’s stunning ageing cellar, where enormous French oak barrels lined the vaulted halls like sleeping giants. Each wine is treated gently—gravity-fed, no crushing, minimal skin contact—to highlight elegance over extraction. Think more Audrey Hepburn, less Hulk Hogan.
Even the skins are repurposed for grappa. Waste not, sip more.
VIP Vino: The Zodiac Collection
Yes, you read that right. A Zodiac Collection. Each year, a limited-edition Magnum is released with a bespoke label inspired by Chinese astrology and Tuscan artistry. Fancy the limited edition 213 Year of the Horse? You’ll need to buy the full set—some bottles run north of £1,500. Good luck explaining that one to your accountant.
Final Sip: Why It Matters
Castiglion del Bosco isn’t just a winery—it’s a lesson in balance. History meets innovation. Rustic charm meets luxury. And the wines? They’re not chasing trends or bowing to fashion (no low-alc fads here), just sticking to what Tuscany does best—bold reds, made with patience, passion and a touch of pomp.
One wine in particular hit the spot—Prima Pietra. Before we even stood up, I’d already ordered a case from my iPhone, direct to my front door. Safe to say, it left an impression.
Whether you’re a Brunello buff or just flirting with Italian reds, this estate belongs on your list. Bring a corkscrew. Bring a mate. Bring stretchy trousers.
Huge thanks to our lovely host, who made the experience feel like a stroll through a friend’s vineyard rather than a formal tasting. Her warmth and knowledge added so much to the day.
