Brolio Castle and the Abbey of Coltibuono

The villas and vineyards of the First Families of Chianti.

We will spend the day amidst the beauty and majesty of noble estates born through centuries of intrigue and investment, political strife and artistic patronage. We will view the fertile fields and breathtaking citadels that grounded the fortunes of central Tuscany’s most prestigious dynasties.

Our journey centers around two Chianti landmarks, the mighty Castle of Brolio and the powerful Abbey of Coltibuono. We will travel into the heart of the Chianti region along beautiful country roads to reach the Castle of Brolio. Home to the mighty Ricasoli family, Brolio is famous in Chianti lore both as a strategic outpost and the birthplace of modern Chianti wine. We will stroll the grounds of this famous citadel, enjoy a tour of the family’s private chapel and crypt, and walk through the verdant English park on our way to the front ramparts.

Here we will cast our gaze over vineyards, groves, and woodlandsthat stretch all the way to the distant towers of Siena. From such commanding heights you will understand why the Tuscans say “When Brolio growls, Siena trembles!” We will next visit the Brolio enoteca to enjoy the estate’s fine wines and olive oil followed by a delicious lunch at a favourite local trattoria with views stretching out across vineyards and groves.

In the afternoon we will arrive at the Abbey of Badia a Coltibuono, Abbey of the Good Harvest. In 1051 the monks of the Vallombrosan Order founded the complex in a strategic location already settled in Etruscan times for its command of the fertile Arno Valley and the majestic Apennine Mountains. Over the centuries the monks extended their vast land holdings to include many thousands of acres and developed a flourishing wine production and commerce. The monastery was secularized under Napoleonic rule and the Stucchi-Prinetti family has owned the estate since 1846. Under the present owner, Piero Stucchi Prinetti, the estate has grown and built a solid reputation in Italy and abroad through the high quality of its products. Piero’s wife Lorenza de’ Medici further brings Badia a Coltibuono to life with her school of Italian cuisine, as well as having written a number of successful books on gastronomy that have been translated into many languages. After the tour, we will visit the Coltibuono enoteca, where guests will have a chance to sample the estate’s wine, olive oil, and enjoy the beautiful ceramics and olive wood pieces produced by local artisans.

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