| Established | 12th century |
| Vineyard hectares | 150 |
Castello di Gabbiano, a historic Chianti Classico estate, combines centuries-old traditions, elegant wines and hospitality surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
History of Castello di Gabbiano
In the heart of Chianti Classico, the Castello di Gabbiano estate traces its origins to the 12th century, when the property belonged to the noble Bardi family – renowned Florentine bankers – and the first wine cellars were built in 1124. Over the centuries, the fortified village passed to the Soderini family, who transformed it into a wine-producing estate in the 15th century. Further restoration work began in the 17th century.
Today, the estate is owned by Treasury Wine Estates, a major Australian multinational wine company that has combined its long-standing heritage with modern vineyard and winery management.
Under the supervision of winemaker Federico Cerelli, Castello di Gabbiano produces approximately 890,000 bottles per year from 150 hectares of vineyards, focusing on Sangiovese excellence while also showcasing complementary grape varieties. The winery thus remains a benchmark in Chianti Classico DOCG, producing wines that express a sense of place, elegance and consistent quality.
Il Cavaliere Restaurant at Castello di Gabbiano
Within the estate, Il Cavaliere restaurant offers an elegant interpretation of Tuscan cuisine, combining seasonal ingredients and local recipes with a contemporary approach.
Set in an elegant country house overlooking the vineyards, the restaurant offers views of the Chianti Classico hills and the opportunity to pair its dishes with the estate’s wines.
In summer, the panoramic terrace is ideal for outdoor tastings, while the historic atmosphere indoors enhances the dining experience.
Winery Tours & Accommodation at Castello di Gabbiano
Hospitality, Wine Experiences and Accommodation at Castello di Gabbiano
Nestled among the rolling hills of Chianti Classico, just a short distance from Florence, Castello di Gabbiano offers an exclusive hospitality experience in Tuscany, combining historical charm, modern comfort and the finest Tuscan food and wine traditions. The accommodation is surrounded by approximately 100 hectares of vineyards, olive groves and woodland, offering breathtaking views of the Chianti countryside.
Accommodation at Castello di Gabbiano includes 10 individually furnished rooms within the historic castle, each featuring distinctive interiors and architectural details, as well as apartments housed in carefully restored 16th-century farmhouses. Guests can choose from Junior, Standard and Superior Rooms, elegant Suites, and independent apartments, particularly suitable for families and extended stays. Facilities include landscaped gardens, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, scenic hiking trails through the vineyards, bicycle rentals and activities dedicated to relaxation and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Particular emphasis is placed on wine tourism in Chianti Classico, with a comprehensive programme of guided winery tours and vineyard visits, available for both groups and private guests. Experiences include Chianti Classico, Riserva and Gran Selezione wine tastings, insights into winemaking and ageing techniques, as well as tastings of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Guests seeking a more immersive gastronomic experience can choose from Wine Tour & Light Lunch, Gourmet Lunch and Gourmet Dinner experiences, featuring tasting menus and carefully selected wine pairings at the estate’s Il Cavaliere restaurant.
The hospitality offering also includes Tuscan cooking classes, massage treatments and activities available upon reservation, including spectacular hot-air balloon rides over the Chianti hills. The combination of charming accommodation, wine culture, Tuscan gastronomy and unspoilt nature makes Castello di Gabbiano an ideal destination for a romantic weekend in Chianti, a gourmet wine holiday or an immersive stay dedicated to discovering Tuscany’s outstanding wines and cultural heritage.
Wines of Castello di Gabbiano
The estate’s production centres on Sangiovese, the cornerstone of its wines, which are appreciated for combining elegance, freshness and regional character. The Chianti Classico DOCG embodies this philosophy with well-defined fruit, juicy tannins and an approachable palate, while the Riserva offers greater structure, with increased concentration, firm tannins and oak ageing that adds complexity without sacrificing finesse.
At the top of the range are two Gran Selezione wines: “Bellezza” and “Cerbaiola”. Bellezza is made exclusively from Sangiovese grown in a single vineyard and released in limited quantities; it was among the first labels to carry the Gran Selezione designation, beginning in 2011. Cerbaiola also comes from a specific cru in San Donato and aims to express the character of its terroir, balancing power and refinement.
Across its range, the winery demonstrates its technical expertise, highlighting both indigenous grape varieties and carefully measured proportions of international varieties such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, while retaining a distinctive Chianti Classico identity.
Chianti Classico DOCG
Tasting Notes
A profile of vibrant red fruit, supple tannins, lively acidity and a savoury finish.
Technical Details
Blend: predominantly Sangiovese, with small proportions of Merlot and Colorino. Estate vineyards at 250–350 m above sea level on limestone and clay soils. Fermented in stainless steel. Partly aged in large oak casks and barriques for several months.
Score: 91/100 – Italy’s Finest Wines (Vintage 2022)
Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG
Tasting Notes
Ripe fruit, spice, well-defined tannins, medium-to-full body and good freshness.
Technical Details
Blend: approximately 95% Sangiovese and 5% Merlot. Winemaking involves extended skin maceration and malolactic fermentation in oak. Ageing: 14 months in French oak barriques and large casks.
Score: 93/100 – Italy’s Finest Wines (Vintage 2021)
Chianti Classico Gran Selezione “Cerbaiola” DOCG
Tasting Notes
Single-vineyard cru: a clear expression of Sangiovese, with well-defined tannins and a full-bodied structure.
Technical Details
Composition: 100% Sangiovese from the “Cerbaiola” vineyard, at approximately 400 m elevation, on galestro-rich soils. Winemaking and ageing: oak fermentation and maturation in barriques and large casks.
Score: 94/100 – Italy’s Finest Wines (Vintage 2021)
Chianti Classico Gran Selezione “Bellezza” DOCG
Tasting Notes
Sangiovese from a dedicated vineyard, displaying high concentration, pronounced structure and excellent ageing potential.
Technical Details
Composition: 100% Sangiovese from the “Bellezza” vineyard, planted in 1993. Winemaking: alcoholic and malolactic fermentation in French oak barriques. Ageing: 14–16 months in French barriques and tonneaux.
Score: 95/100 – Italy’s Finest Wines (Vintage 2020)
CASTELLO DI GABBIANO
Via di Gabbiano, 22 50020 Mercatale Val di Pesa (FI)
Tel. +39 055 821053
Fax +39 055 8218082
castellogabbiano@castellogabbiano
www.castellogabbiano.it
Wine tastings available at the estate; direct sales
