San Giusto a Rentennano winery
San Giusto a Rentennano is an historic wine estate located in the southernmost part of the Chianti Classico zone, near Gaiole in Chianti, Tuscany. The estate dates back to the Middle Ages, originally serving as a monastery and later as a fortress, reflecting its strategic position overlooking the Arbia River. The property has been owned by the Martini di Cigala family since 1914, and today, siblings Elisabetta, Francesco, and Luca Martini di Cigala manage the winery, blending tradition with innovation to produce high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of their land.
The estate covers about 160 hectares, of which approximately 31 hectares are dedicated to vineyards and 11 hectares to olive groves. The vineyards are situated at altitudes ranging from 270 to 330 meters above sea level, with soils composed mainly of limestone, clay, and sand, providing ideal conditions for cultivating Sangiovese and other grape varieties. San Giusto a Rentennano practices organic farming, using natural fertilizers, green manure, and minimal intervention to maintain the health of their vines and the surrounding ecosystem. The winery has been certified organic since 2008, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
The estate is best known for its Chianti Classico wines, particularly the Riserva Le Baròncole and the single-vineyard Percarlo. Le Baròncole is a classic expression of Sangiovese, displaying elegance, structure, and vibrant acidity, while Percarlo, made from 100% Sangiovese, is produced only in the best vintages and has become one of Tuscany’s most sought-after wines, celebrated for its depth, complexity, and aging potential. In addition to Sangiovese-based wines, San Giusto a Rentennano produces La Ricolma, a pure Merlot that has garnered international acclaim, as well as other labels such as Chianti Classico Annata and the sweet wine Vin San Giusto, a traditional Tuscan Vin Santo made from Malvasia and Trebbiano grapes dried on mats before fermentation.
Winemaking at San Giusto a Rentennano combines traditional methods with modern technology. Grapes are harvested by hand, and fermentation occurs in stainless steel and cement tanks, with maceration periods tailored to each variety and vintage. Aging takes place in a mix of large oak casks and French barriques, depending on the wine, to enhance complexity and maintain a balance between fruit and oak influence. The estate is known for its attention to detail throughout the production process, from vineyard management to bottling, resulting in wines that are expressive, balanced, and true to their origins.
San Giusto a Rentennano’s philosophy centers on expressing the character of their land and respecting the natural environment. The family’s hands-on approach and deep connection to their property have contributed to the estate’s reputation for producing wines of authenticity and distinction. Visitors to the estate are welcomed for tastings and tours, offering a firsthand experience of the winery’s history, vineyards, and cellars. With a legacy rooted in tradition and a forward-looking approach to viticulture and winemaking, San Giusto a Rentennano continues to be a leading force in the Chianti Classico region, producing wines that capture the essence of Tuscany.