GENERAL INFORMATION

 

Producer: Alessandro & Enrica Scappini

Country: Italy
Region: Bolgheri, Tuscany
Founded: 2009
Farming: Organic (in conversion via BioAgriCert), Biodynamic
Website: www.podereilcastellaccio.it

 

Podere Il Castellaccio is situated in Castagneto Carducci, in the Livorno area of Tuscany. Alessandro Scappini founded the winery in 2009, but the estate has belonged to his family since the 1960s. The estate is situated on the hills along the Costa degli Etruschi, at an altitude of 100-160 meters above sea level in the world-famous Bolgheri area. The estate faces towards the sea and enjoys a sea breeze all year, resulting in a Mediterranean microclimate that is ideal for viticulture.

 

The vineyards occupy 3.5 hectares and have an average age of 40 years. The older vineyards, occupying more than 2 hectares are planted to Tuscan natives: Sangiovese, Ciliegiolo, Foglia Tonda and Pugnitello. In 2014 almost a hectare of Cabernet Franc was planted and this vineyard is sited on steep hillside terrace. The plants are bush-trained and certain activities, like tilling the soil, are carried out using a horse. Another vineyard of a hectare is planned, where native wine varieties will be planted.

                                                   

Two years ago Podere Il Castellaccio made a request to obtain organic certification, which should arrive in 2018. The aim of the winery is to become a certified biodynamic producer in the near future.

 

The old wine cellar is now being remodelled, with the historical value of the traditional atmosphere combined with state-of the-art technology for winemaking. Vinification takes place mostly in cement and in wooden casks of 20 hl. Podere Il Castellaccio also has an area dedicated to the breeding of horses as well as hotel facilities. There are 6 apartments including annexes, designed with the principle of bioarchitecture and perfectly integrated in the surroundings. They are surrounded by greenery and are located between the coast and the hills of Castagneto Carducci.