A Glimpse into History

Castello Vicchiomaggio, originally known as Vicchio of the Lombards, has roots dating back to around 1400, as documented in ancient parchments. Perched on a hill overlooking the Val di Greve, just 18 km from Florence and 38 km from Siena, its strategic location has been significant throughout history. The castle, constructed from solid stone, features a high embattled tower dating back to 1100 and is surrounded by well-preserved defensive walls. Thanks to meticulous restoration, it stands as a national monument. In the Middle Ages, Castello Vicchiomaggio played a crucial role in defending Florence during conflicts with Siena.

The Meaning Behind the Name

Over time, the castle transformed into an exclusive Renaissance Manor House, reaching its peak during this era. The name was changed to include ‘Maggio’ in honor of the Maggiolate of Calendimaggio. Throughout its illustrious history, many notable figures have visited, including Leonardo da Vinci and Francesco Redi. Da Vinci stayed at Castello Vicchiomaggio while painting the iconic Mona Lisa, and he even sketched a charming image during his time there. Redi, a prominent academician, penned his famous poem "Bacchus in Tuscany" at the castle in 1865.

Today, Castello Vicchiomaggio is celebrated for producing internationally recognized wines. The owners, John and Paola Matta, are committed to maintaining this rich winemaking tradition.

Vineyards and Varietals

The estate spans 140 hectares, with 34 dedicated to vineyards and 10 to olive groves, while the remainder is a beautiful park. The primary grape variety cultivated here is Sangiovese, essential for Chianti Classico. Additionally, indigenous grapes like Canaiolo and Colorino are grown alongside international varieties such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, which are particularly sought after for the estate's renowned IGT-certified red wines.

Experiences to book at Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem

Top reviews

Sebastián Guzmán Cano
July 15, 2022
A beautiful place, very good service and delicious food at a reasonable price. I would definitely go back.
Ester Franchella
February 5, 2025
I went to celebrate my 80th birthday. It was wonderful. The reception was great and we were very well looked after. The food and wine were perfect and the dessert was divine. An unforgettable day.

Location

Location Vicchiomaggio Castle, Via Vicchiomaggio, 4, Greve in Chianti, Florence 50027, Italy

Spoken Languages

Services

Restaurant
Accommodation
Parking

Visiting Hours

Monday - Sunday
10:00 - 18:30

Wine types

Red Wine
White Wine
Rose Wine

Grape varieties

Sangiovese
Cabernet e Merlot

Wine Certifications

Other wineries in Tuscany

Visitor reviews

What our community thinks about Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem

Check out verified reviews from visitors who've enjoyed their time at Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem.

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Reviews (25)

Alina Schessler
Reviewed on March 7, 2025

I had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful wedding at Castello Vicchiomaggio in 2022. In my ten years as a wedding photographer, I’ve seen many stunning venues, but Castello Vicchiomaggio truly stands out. The location was breathtaking, and the service was exceptional. Even without a wedding planner, everything ran smoothly thanks to the meticulous planning of the venue’s team. I sincerely hope to capture another wedding at this incredible place in the future.

Review provided by Google

Ester Franchella
Reviewed on February 5, 2025

I went to celebrate my 80th birthday. It was wonderful. The reception was great and we were very well looked after. The food and wine were perfect and the dessert was divine. An unforgettable day.

Review provided by Google

Michele Meratti
Reviewed on January 27, 2025

Special and suggestive place, known 20 years ago, always pleasant and welcoming, from the castle with the rooms and the restaurant to the direct sales, improved and expanded over the years. To visit for a short stay, a weekend or a tasting dinner, for a holiday, for weddings and events to remember.

Review provided by Google

Lily T
Reviewed on November 27, 2024

Absolutely stunning!!! We didn't do the wine tasting here but were able to grab a bite to eat and ordered a bottle of wine in their stunning restaurant. The grounds here were simply amazing and the views were breathtaking. We had a bottle of their chianti classico and wow!!! The wine was out of this world and very reasonably priced. We also ordered a couple of pasta here and both were very good. Overall, a great place! Highly recommend

Review provided by Google

Jessica Mayo
Reviewed on November 22, 2024

My husband and I had our wedding there in late September without seeing the castle before. We were blown away of the service, the beauty, and food and wine! Everything was just amazing and we are already looking to return and relive some of those memories. We even hosted a wine tasting the day after the wedding and our guests absolutely loved it! We couldn't recommend it more and if you can make a stop here on your adventures, DO IT, you will not regret it.

Review provided by Google

Frequently Asked Questions about Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem

Where is Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem located?

Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem is located in Chianti Classico, Italy

What type of wines does Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem produce?

Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem produces Red Wine, White Wine, Rose Wine.

What grape varieties do they plant at Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem?

At Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem, they cultivate Sangiovese, Cabernet e Merlot.

What languages do they speak at the Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem?

At Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem they speak German, English, French, Italian.

Do they produce organic wines at Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem?

No, Castello Vicchiomaggio: A Tuscan Gem is not an organic wine producer.