Casteldelpiano

About

Owners & winemakers: Sabina Ruffaldi & Andrea Ghigliazza
Vineyards: 2.5ha
Vineyard management: Organic
Soils: Deep deposits of stones, loam, and minerals
Grapes grown: Merlot, Pinot Nero, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Canaiolo, Durella Gentile, Pollera Bianco, Pollera Nero, Vermentino Nero

Quick facts:

• Though technically within the borders of Tuscany, Licciana Nardi, where Castelpiano is located, is found at the confluence of three regions: Tuscany, Liguria, and Emilia-Romagna. It has its own distinctive character and indigenous grape varieties–a world apart from the Chiantis and Brunellos found in southern Tuscany.
• Casteldelpiano is a polycultural estate, producing olive oil as well as wine.
• This region is home to many unique autochthonous varieties because it was directly on the path of many important trade routes for centuries. Various travelers brought diverse plantings which are now found almost nowhere else.

The Valle del Torrente Taverone region of Tuscany is rich with history, including the Malaspina Castle on the property of Casteldelpiano. Built in medieval times for the purpose of defending agricultural crops in the area, this castle was transformed into a residence in the sixteenth century, then subsequently abandoned. Andrea Ghigliazza and Sabina Ruffaldi discovered the property in 2004, purchased it, and renovated both the estate and the small blocks of native vines. The couple is passionate about maintaining biodiversity on their farm and re-establishing the native grapes of the area, including Canaiolo, Durella Gentile, Pollera Bianco, Pollera Nero, and Vermentino Nero. The winemaking is light-touch with a focus on pink and fizzy wines for everyday consumption.