Castello della Sala winery
Castello della Sala, located in Umbria near Orvieto, is a historic estate owned by the Antinori family since 1940. The castle, built in 1350, sits atop a picturesque hill and is surrounded by 600 hectares of land, of which 170 hectares are dedicated to vineyards. The estate is primarily known for its production of white wines, leveraging the unique terroir and microclimate of the region to cultivate grape varieties such as Grechetto, Procanico, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon, Pinot Blanc, and Riesling.
Among the wines produced at Castello della Sala, Muffato della Sala stands out as a distinctive sweet wine. This wine is crafted from a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Grechetto, Traminer, Sémillon, and Riesling grapes. The vineyards are situated at altitudes ranging from 200 to 450 meters above sea level, benefiting from clay-rich soils with marine fossils that contribute to the complexity and minerality of the wines. The estate’s location, with its cool nights and misty autumn mornings, creates ideal conditions for the development of Botrytis cinerea, also known as noble rot, which is essential for producing Muffato della Sala.
The harvest for Muffato della Sala is carried out by hand, with multiple passages through the vineyards to select only the grapes affected by noble rot. The grapes are gently pressed, and the must is fermented in French oak barriques at a controlled temperature. The wine then matures in barriques for approximately six months, followed by additional bottle aging before release. This meticulous process results in a wine with an intense golden color, layered aromas of dried fruit, saffron, honey, and delicate floral notes, and a rich, lingering palate that balances sweetness with vibrant acidity.
Castello della Sala’s commitment to quality is evident in its careful vineyard management, sustainable practices, and innovative winemaking techniques. The estate also produces other notable wines, including Cervaro della Sala, a celebrated white blend, and Bramito della Sala, a varietal Chardonnay. The castle itself, with its medieval architecture and scenic surroundings, serves as a symbol of the estate’s long history and dedication to excellence in winemaking.
Visitors to Castello della Sala can experience guided tours of the vineyards and historic cellars, offering insight into the estate’s winemaking philosophy and heritage. The estate’s wines are recognized for their elegance, complexity, and ability to express the unique characteristics of the Umbria region. Castello della Sala continues to innovate while honoring its deep-rooted traditions, making it a distinguished producer within the Antinori portfolio and a benchmark for Italian white wines.