Castello di Montepo winery
Castello di Montepò, located in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma, is a historic estate owned by the Biondi Santi family, celebrated for their pivotal role in the creation of Brunello di Montalcino. The castle, dating back to the Middle Ages, stands atop a hill surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and pristine countryside, offering a unique terroir that combines the influence of the Tyrrhenian Sea with the inland climate. The estate spans over 600 hectares, with 50 hectares dedicated to vineyards, primarily planted with Sangiovese Grosso, known locally as BBS11, the unique clone selected and preserved by the Biondi Santi family.
The Biondi Santi family’s winemaking philosophy is deeply rooted in tradition, focusing on purity, longevity, and respect for the land. Their meticulous approach begins in the vineyard, where sustainable practices and careful manual selection of grapes ensure only the best fruit is used. The estate’s vineyards are divided into distinct parcels, each with its own microclimate and soil composition, allowing for precise viticulture and the production of wines that express the character of Montepò’s terroir.
The castle itself is a symbol of heritage and innovation, blending ancient architecture with modern winemaking facilities. The winery is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, yet the winemaking process remains faithful to time-honored methods. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by aging in large Slavonian oak casks, a hallmark of the Biondi Santi style. This approach preserves the freshness and elegance of the wines while allowing them to develop complexity and depth over time.
Castello di Montepò produces a range of wines that reflect the estate’s commitment to quality and authenticity. The flagship wine is the Sassoalloro, a pure expression of Sangiovese Grosso, known for its vibrant fruit, refined tannins, and remarkable aging potential. The estate also produces Sassoalloro Oro, a selection of the best parcels, and Jacopo Biondi Santi, a wine that pays tribute to the family’s legacy. In addition to red wines, the estate crafts a limited production of white and rosé wines, as well as extra virgin olive oil from their ancient olive groves.
Visitors to Castello di Montepò can experience the estate’s history and hospitality through guided tours and tastings. The castle’s cellars and vineyards are open to guests, offering a glimpse into the winemaking process and the opportunity to taste the estate’s acclaimed wines. The estate also hosts private events, immersing guests in the beauty and tradition of the Tuscan countryside.
Castello di Montepò’s dedication to excellence is evident in every aspect of their work, from vineyard management to winemaking and hospitality. The estate continues to build on the Biondi Santi family’s storied legacy, producing wines that embody the spirit of Tuscany and the unique character of Montepò. Their commitment to tradition, innovation, and respect for the land ensures that each bottle reflects the history and soul of this remarkable estate.