Torricella

The vineyards at Castello di Brolio, home to Barone Ricasoli, span altitudes from 720 to 1,640 feet (220 to 500 meters) above sea level with predominantly south and southwest exposures. The Mediterranean climate features mild winters with rare snowfalls, hot, dry summers, and annual rainfall averaging 32 inches (813 mm), concentrated in spring and autumn.

Sangiovese is the dominant variety, thriving in the diverse terroir. Extensive zoning research has identified nineteen distinct soil types across the estate, supporting site-specific vineyard management. This approach allows for the production of wines with unique character, reflecting the varied soils, altitudes, and microclimates.

The estate features five principal soils:

Macigno del Chianti Formation: Sand and rocks with low organic matter at 1,310-1,640 feet (400-500 m) altitude. Vines: Sangiovese, Merlot, Chardonnay. Wines are complex and well-structured. Includes part of the Casalferro vineyard.

Scaglia Toscana: Thin, schist-based soil at 1,310-1,640 feet (400-500 m) altitude. Vines: Sangiovese. Produces wines with high tannin content and intense minerality.

Monte Morello Formation: Calcareous clay at 1,150-1,280 feet (350-390 m) altitude. Vines: Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot. Yields wines with structure, body, and soft tannins. Includes the Colledilà vineyard.

Marine Deposit: Sandy sediments and clay at 980-1,150 feet (300-350 m) altitude. Vines: Sangiovese. Wines are fresh, with spicy notes and distinct minerality. Includes part of the Roncicone vineyard.

Ancient Fluvial Terrace: Silty, clay-based soil at 850-980 feet (260-300 m) altitude. Vines: Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon. Produces wines with complexity, structure, and high tannin content. Includes part of the CeniPrimo vineyard.

Tuscany, Italy, is renowned for its Sangiovese-based wines, such as Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino, as well as its international blends, coined “Super Tuscans”, which are made partially or entirely from Bordeaux varietals. The region’s diverse topography features rolling hills, valleys, and coastal areas, with soils ranging from clay and limestone-rich galestro to sandy and alluvial compositions. Tuscany’s traditions are partly shaped by Sangiovese, which can vary dramatically in structure and astringency and requiring more oxidation during winemaking, emphasizing a rustic savory style instead of fruit purity. Still, its younger regions like Bolgheri are focal points for modern influence.