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Barone Ricasoli: The Soul of Chianti Classico

Discover the historic Barone Ricasoli, Italy's oldest winery, and taste the legacy of Chianti Classico in the heart of Tuscany.

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Barone Ricasoli, Italy's oldest winery, has been crafting wines at Castello di Brolio since the 12th century. Discover the estate where Baron Bettino Ricasoli created the Chianti Classico formula in 1872. Explore the castle, gardens, and wine shop, and taste the legacy of Tuscan winemaking.

A brief summary to Barone Ricasoli

Local tips

  • Visit between April and October for the best weather and full access to the castle gardens, wine shop, and Osteria del Castello.
  • Book winery tours and private castle visits in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Check the Barone Ricasoli website for updated hours, special events, and holiday closures.
  • Consider staying at Agriturismo Agresto, Barone Ricasoli's charming guesthouse, for a tranquil experience surrounded by vineyards.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Siena, take the SR408 towards Gaiole in Chianti. Follow the signs to Madonna a Brolio. The drive is approximately 20 km and takes about 30 minutes. Parking is available near the castle ticket office. Be aware that some roads may be narrow and winding.

  • Public Transport

    From Siena, take a bus to Gaiole in Chianti. From Gaiole, it's approximately 5 km to Barone Ricasoli. You can take a taxi from Gaiole to the winery. Bus tickets from Siena to Gaiole cost around €3-€5. A taxi from Gaiole to Barone Ricasoli will cost approximately €15-€20.

Unlock the Best of Barone Ricasoli

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Discover more about Barone Ricasoli

Barone Ricasoli is more than just a winery; it's a journey through Italian history and the heart of Chianti Classico. The Ricasoli family has been producing wine at Castello di Brolio since 1141, making it the oldest winery in Italy and the fourth oldest family-owned business in the world. In 1872, Baron Bettino Ricasoli, known as the "Iron Baron," developed the formula for Chianti Classico, solidifying the estate's place in wine history. Explore the grounds, which include 1,200 hectares of valleys, hills, and forests, with 235 hectares dedicated to vineyards and 26 to olive groves. Visit the castle museum to see historical items, including 14th- to 18th-century weapons and scientific instruments used by the "Iron Baron". The beautifully landscaped gardens offer panoramic views of the Chianti region. At the wine shop, sample a selection of Ricasoli's wines, including Chianti Classico, white wine, Rosé, and Vin Santo. For a more in-depth experience, book a guided tour of the castle and cellars, or enjoy lunch at the Osteria di Brolio, which serves traditional Tuscan cuisine. Barone Ricasoli continues to innovate, blending tradition with modern winemaking techniques to produce award-winning wines.

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