Castello dei RampollaProducer from Tuscany, Italy

In the heart of Tuscany's famed Chianti Classico region, nestled within the hilltop town of Panzano, lies the esteemed estate of Castello dei Rampolla. Surrounded by the breathtaking Conca d’Oro ("golden basin"), a natural amphitheatre renowned for its exceptional terroir, this winery is not only a testament to the rich winemaking heritage of Italy but also a luminary of innovation and sustainable viticulture. Although officially founded in 1956, the legacy of its owners, the Napoli Rampolla family, extends deeply into history, dating back to 1739 on this very site.

“Sammarco is quite possibly the single greatest value in high-end Italian wine" Antonio Galloni, Vinous

Under Alceo di Napoli Rampolla’s visionary leadership in the latter half of the twentieth century, the estate emerged as a beacon of excellence. Inspired by the legendary Mario Incisa della Rocchetta, the creator of the iconic Sassicaia, Alceo embarked on an ambitious journey to craft a Bordeaux-style wine that would encapsulate the unique essence of Tuscany. With the expertise of world-renowned oenologist Giacomo Tachis, they ventured into uncharted territories, introducing Cabernet Sauvignon to their vineyards. This bold move was met with skepticism from Chianti Classico purists, yet it marked the inception of a revolutionary era for Castello dei Rampolla.

Despite the challenges and criticism from traditional circles, Castello dei Rampolla has steadfastly maintained its course, integrating modern innovations with unwavering respect for the land. This unique blend of tradition and innovation has positioned the estate as a standard-bearer in the Chianti Classico region. For those fortunate enough to experience Castello dei Rampolla’s wines, each bottle offers a journey through time, conveying the rich history, dedication, and creative spirit that define this extraordinary estate.

"Rampolla is one of the most fascinating wineries in Tuscany, and Italy, for that matter. The relentless pursuit of excellence is evident in these spectacular wines." Antonio Galloni

Castello dei Rampolla Sammarco:

The creation of Sammarco, a superstar blend predominantly composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, catapulted the estate into the limelight, showcasing its prowess in producing Bordeaux blends with a distinct Tuscan soul. This legacy of excellence and innovation was carried forward by Alceo’s children, Luca and Maurizia di Napoli, after his passing in 1991. They continued their father's revolutionary work, transforming the estate with a steadfast commitment to biodynamic farming practices. The introduction of manual harvests and the complete elimination of chemical treatments in the vines underscored their dedication to sustainability and the health of their land.

Castello dei Rampolla d'Alceo:

In a touching homage to their father's memory, Alceo's children introduced 'd'Alceo,' a wine named in his honor. Sourced from a single vineyard situated at an impressive altitude of 1,140 feet, d'Alceo has surpassed Sammarco in renown, embodying the pinnacle of the estate's winemaking achievements. With production numbers ranging from a modest 8,000 to 25,000 bottles per year depending on the vintage, Castello dei Rampolla’s wines remain highly coveted, celebrated for their elegance and remarkable ageing potential.

Castello dei Rampolla Chianti Classico:

Their Chianti Classico is a more traditional expression of the region, primarily Sangiovese, reflecting the terracotta-rich soils and microclimate of Panzano. Each wine, whether international in style or rooted in locale, maintains a clear expression of place, a philosophy central to Rampolla’s identity.