Castell’in Villa

Nestled in Castelnuovo Berardenga within the Chianti Classico region, the renowned Castell’in Villa estate boasts a rich history dating back to the 1200s as a medieval hamlet and military outpost. Its prominence in winemaking, however, is credited to the current owner, Princess Coralia Pignatelli della Leonessa, a Greek-born aristocrat, and her late husband Riccardo Pignatelli della Leonessa, who acquired the estate in 1968. During this transitional period from the feudal collective system to private estates, the Princess transformed the estate from a 13th-century farmhouse and minimal vineyards to a sprawling 300-hectare property, with 50 hectares dedicated to vine cultivation. Following Riccardo's passing in 1985, Princess Coralia contemplated selling the estate but chose instead to take on the responsibility herself. Despite the estate's less-than-ideal condition and the need for extensive renovations, the Princess, favoring an old-school winemaking approach, eschews many barriques in favor of aging in older large casks. Her Sangiovese-exclusive Chiantis, marked by their elegance and longevity, stand out as some of the most refined expressions in the region.