D'Alceo Toscana IGT 2018 - Castello dei Rampolla

Castello dei Rampolla, Via Case Sparse 22, 50022 Panzano In Chianti (FI), Italy

Castello dei Rampolla is a historic winery located in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, near the village of Panzano in Tuscany, Italy. The estate has been owned by the Di Napoli family since 1739, making it one of the oldest family-run wineries in the region. Over the years, Castello dei Rampolla has gained a reputation for producing exceptional wines that reflect the rich terroir and winemaking traditions of Tuscany.

Alceo Di Napoli's special approach to viticulture

The winery is best known for its pioneering approach to biodynamic viticulture, which was adopted by the Di Napoli family in the 1990s under the leadership of Alceo Di Napoli. This method of farming, which goes beyond organic practices, focuses on creating a balanced and self-sustaining ecosystem in the vineyard. The family’s commitment to biodynamics has resulted in healthier vines and grapes, leading to wines of greater purity, complexity, and expression.

Castello dei Rampolla produces a range of wines, but its flagship wine, Sammarco, is particularly renowned. Sammarco is a Super Tuscan blend that combines Cabernet Sauvignon with Sangiovese and Merlot, creating a powerful yet elegant wine that has earned high praise from critics and wine enthusiasts alike. Another notable wine from the estate is Vigna d'Alceo, a rich and full-bodied red made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot, named in honor of Alceo Di Napoli.

Tuscan as the flagship production of Castello dei Rampolla

The estate’s vineyards are situated on rolling hills with diverse soils, including limestone and clay, which contribute to the unique character of the wines. The favorable microclimate of the area, with warm days and cool nights, allows the grapes to ripen slowly, preserving their acidity and aromatic complexity. This terroir-driven approach is central to the philosophy of Castello dei Rampolla, where the focus is on crafting wines that truly reflect their place of origin.

In the cellar, the winemaking process at Castello dei Rampolla emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the natural qualities of the grapes to shine through. The wines are fermented with indigenous yeasts and aged in a combination of large oak casks and French barriques, striking a balance between tradition and modernity. This careful approach to winemaking results in wines that are both approachable in their youth and capable of aging gracefully for many years.

Castello dei Rampolla’s wines have received numerous accolades and awards, establishing the estate as one of Tuscany’s most respected producers. Despite their success, the Di Napoli family remains committed to their values of sustainability, quality, and respect for the environment. They continue to innovate and explore new methods to enhance the quality of their wines while preserving the integrity of their land.

Visitors to Castello dei Rampolla can experience the beauty of the Tuscan countryside and the passion behind the wines through guided tours and tastings. The estate offers a glimpse into the rich history and winemaking traditions of the region, combined with the family’s forward-thinking approach to viticulture. The combination of history, innovation, and dedication to biodynamics makes Castello dei Rampolla a standout winery in the world of fine Italian wine.

Overall, Castello dei Rampolla represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, producing wines that are a true expression of their terroir and the family’s dedication to excellence. Their commitment to biodynamic practices and sustainable winemaking continues to inspire and set a standard in the wine industry.