PRODUCER: Castello di Querceto
REGION: Chianti, Tuscany, Italy
FOUNDER/WINEMAKER: The François Family; Simone and Lia François
In our opinion, Castello di Querceto is undeniably one of the greatest and most distinct producers in the entirety of Tuscany. But don't just take our word for it. According to the famed Gambero Rosso guide, “Castello di Querceto remains among the most impressive operations [in Tuscany], with its entire line of wines riding high.”
WINERY HISTORY
The history of this estate is amongst the longest of any wine estate anywhere in the world. The original fortifications on the site date back to the Roman period, while the present castle was constructed in the mid-16th century. The present history begins in earnest with its purchase by the François family, who have stewarded this land since 1897. Stalwarts of Tuscany, the family have been in the region since 1740, originally nobles in the House of the Emperor. Founding members of the winemakers' association of Chianti (Consorzio del Chianti Classico), this family is one of few in the region who have remained uninterruptedly in possession of their winemaking business for over a century.
VITICULTURE & WINEMAKING
The vineyards of Castello di Querceto cover some of Chianti's most renowned terroir, found between 350-520m above sea level and with numerous exposures varying across an East-South-West arc. Farming over 11 varieties, the heterogeneity of the vineyards is dictated by a desire to best represent the characteristics of the land in which the fruit is grown. Rigorous promoters of sustainability, Castello di Querceto is devoted to the protection of their natural environment to ensure its viability for generations to come.
Work in the cellar is conscientious and delicate. The fruit is lightly pressed before a careful and heavily monitored fermentation to ensure the nuance of the fruit survives. Ageing is done in the cellar/basement of the castle, where ancient 10-40hL barriques are used in the production of the Chianti Classico Crus from the winery.
Querceto is one of the highest estates in the Chianti Classico zone and they are renowned for the freshness and elegance of their wines. They effortlessly combine classic Sangiovese characteristics with the silky and luxurious texture you would expect from one of the region’s best estates.
GRAPE VARIETIES
Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Colorino, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Syrah, Merlot, Malvasia del Chianti, Trebbiano Toscana, San Colombano, Chardonnay
