Castello Vicchiomaggio is an absolutely amazing producer of internationally renowned wines. Wine has been produced at the Castle for longer than we can count and its owners, John and Paola Matta, dedicate their lives to preserving this centuries-old tradition and in doing so have ended up being Italian Wine Maker of the Year for four years! 

This beautiful estate covers 140 hectares, of which 33 are vineyards, 10 are olive trees and the rest is park. 

Among the cultivated varieties: the most prominent vine is Sangiovese, which is the fundamental grape for their Chianti Classico, but there are also other indigenous grapes such as Canaiolo and Colorino, as well as two very well-known international varieties which are Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. These last two are in huge demand for their prestigious IGT-classified wines. 

The Chianti Classico area is characterised by a hot, humid climate and the soil, which is called "Galestro”, is rich in clay and large stones. They pay particular attention to the direction in which the vines are planted. In fact, they are all facing south, ensuring maximum exposure to the sun throughout the day to give their wines the boldness they are known for.

Here are GCC we currently stock two of John’s truly fantastic wines:

Castello Vicchiomaggio, Chianti Classico “San Jacopo” 2013 @ £8.75

Kept in large barriques that guarantee a very traditional and classical style that comes back time and time again. The blend of traditional grapes gives this well-structured and fruity wine a beautiful and luxurious colour. This wine is generally available 1 to 2 years after vintage, when these peculiar features have had time to integrate and are appreciated most.

Castello Vicchiomaggio, Chianti Riserva “Agostino Petri” 2010 @ £12.25

Combining tradition and innovation guarantees an excellent and fruity structure to this bold wine, yet it’s well balanced by an oak fullness. As the vineyard is more than 20 years old, this is a pretty low-yield vintage which guarantees excellent wine quality and combines vigour and high potential for just the right ageing.