Castello di Lilliano winery
Fattoria di Lilliano, located in the heart of Chianti Classico near Castellina in Chianti, is a historic wine estate with deep roots in the Tuscan tradition. The property, once a medieval fortress and later a noble villa, has belonged to the Ruspoli family since 1920. Today, the estate covers approximately 450 hectares, of which 50 are dedicated to vineyards and 17 to olive groves, surrounded by woods and rolling hills that define the unique landscape of the region.
The vineyards of Lilliano are situated at altitudes ranging from 300 to 350 meters above sea level, benefiting from optimal sun exposure and well-drained, stony soils rich in galestro and alberese. These conditions, combined with a temperate climate and significant diurnal temperature variation, create an ideal environment for the cultivation of Sangiovese, the principal grape variety of Chianti Classico. The estate also grows other traditional and international varieties, including Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Colorino, and Malvasia Nera, used in blends and for producing distinctive single-varietal wines.
Winemaking at Lilliano blends tradition with innovation. The estate employs modern techniques and equipment while respecting the natural rhythms of the vineyard and the character of the land. Grapes are harvested by hand to ensure optimal quality and are vinified in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. The maturation process takes place in a combination of large Slavonian oak casks and French oak barriques, allowing the wines to develop complexity and balance while preserving their freshness and varietal expression.
Lilliano’s portfolio is anchored by its Chianti Classico DOCG and Chianti Classico Riserva, both of which showcase the estate’s commitment to authenticity and excellence. The Chianti Classico is characterized by vibrant fruit, elegant tannins, and a lively acidity, while the Riserva offers greater structure, depth, and aging potential, reflecting careful selection of the best grapes and extended maturation. The estate also produces Gran Selezione, the highest classification in the Chianti Classico hierarchy, made from the finest parcels and only in exceptional vintages. In addition to these flagship wines, Lilliano crafts IGT Toscana reds such as Anagallis and Le Piazze, which highlight the versatility of the terroir and the skill of the winemaking team. The estate’s production is completed by a Vin Santo del Chianti Classico, a traditional sweet wine made from carefully dried Malvasia and Trebbiano grapes, and a high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
Respect for the environment and sustainability are central to Lilliano’s philosophy. The estate practices integrated viticulture, minimizing chemical interventions and promoting biodiversity in the vineyards and surrounding landscape. Careful management of resources and attention to detail at every stage of production ensure that each bottle expresses the unique identity of Lilliano’s terroir.
Visitors to Fattoria di Lilliano can experience the estate’s heritage and hospitality firsthand. The property offers guided tours of the historic cellars, tastings of the full wine range, and opportunities to explore the scenic vineyards and olive groves. The estate also features charming accommodations in restored farmhouses, providing an authentic Tuscan experience immersed in the beauty and tranquility of the countryside.
Through its dedication to quality, tradition, and innovation, Fattoria di Lilliano continues to produce wines that embody the spirit of Chianti Classico and the timeless allure of Tuscany.