Poggio Amorelli — Attraction in Castellina in Chianti

This was literally one of our favorite wine tasting experiences. I pour wine in California as a retirement “fun job.” I think I do a good job, but our host, Francesco, did an amazing job.

The experience began with a short tour of the cellar and barrel room where their wine making process was explained. We then were guided upstairs to our own private table where we were treated to five wines. We were seated inside since it was raining, but their outdoor patio looks gorgeous if you plan to visit in the Summer.

The Rose Spumante of Sangiovese was lightly sparkling, well balanced and a beautiful start. I could have just enjoyed that whole bottle.

We then were served a 100% Sangiovese 2020 Chianti Classico DOCG with 1 year in French Oak. It was very nice, not too light or too heavy with bright fruit and practically no tannins.

Then Francesco ramped it up! The 2019 Chianti Classico Reserva DOCG - also 100% Sangio - the best grapes from the vintage go into this bottle, and it is aged two years in Freanch Oak- the rest of the vintage goes into the Chianti Classico.

This was my favorite wine of the day, which I thought would be the Super Tuscan - But I was wrong! The Reserva was bold, dark cherry with a silky smooth finish. Even less tanic than its younger brother.

We then enjoyed the IGT 2021 Super Tuscan “Oracolo”. A blend of Sangio, Merlot and a varietal I have never heard of called Colorino. This is a bold wine with notes of chocolate and tobacco on the nose with a nice flavor and round heavier tannins, probably because of it’s young age.

Our final wine was a lovely Vermentino Spumante. This is another varietal I had not heard of. I would say it has a similar flavor to a Grenache Blanc, but this, like the earlier Rose, was lightly sparkling, nice dry fruitiness without being at all sweet.

During the tasting, we were served and enjoyed several types of sliced meats, toasted Tuscan bread with salt and oregano and sliced 6 month old Peccorino. This young Peccorino was creamy and soft, not the hard older cheese that I use at home and have to shred like a Parmesan.

They treated us to olive oil, and 12 and 20 year old Balsalmic vinegar, both also made and sold by the winery.

Thank you to Francesco and the rest of the staff! We sent home 3 bottles of each Chianti Classico to enjoy with friends and family when we tell them about out...

Our visit to the Winery was nothing short of extraordinary! From the moment I set foot on the picturesque vineyard, I was swept away by the captivating beauty of the rolling hills and lush vineyards stretching as far as the eye could see.

The warm and welcoming staff, especially Andreas and Raoul, immediately made me feel like part of the family, guiding me through an unforgettable journey into the world of winemaking. The passion and knowledge they shared about their craft was truly inspiring.

The wine tasting experience was a true sensory delight. Each sip of their renowned wines transported me to a realm of rich flavors, perfectly balanced between the deep complexities of the grape and the artistry of the winemakers. I couldn't help but indulge in more than one glass!

The vineyard's charm and serene ambiance made the wine tasting even more enjoyable. I found myself lost in the enchanting surroundings, immersing myself in the tranquility of the Tuscan countryside.

What sets this winery apart is not just the outstanding wine, but the whole experience it offers. The guided tour of the winery, cellar, and winemaking process provided fascinating insights into the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into creating their top-tier wines.

The delectable wine-pairing with local culinary delights was nothing short of exquisite. It was a true gastronomic journey, elevating my appreciation for the harmonious marriage of wine and food.

The passion and commitment to sustainability showcased by the winery were commendable, as they prioritize environmentally-friendly practices, ensuring the future of their vineyards for generations to come.

In conclusion, my visit to this Winery was truly magical, leaving an indelible mark on my heart and palate. If you are seeking an authentic Tuscan experience and a chance to taste some of the finest wines in the world, this winery is an absolute must-visit! I give it an enthusiastic five-star rating, and I cannot wait to return to this slice of paradise in...

This is the first Italian winery I visited the first time I was in Tuscany; and several years later, it’s always the top of my list to visit every year when I return! The wine is absolutely superb and consistently amazing everytime! (And now you can buy more online and have it shipped to the states! So I can enjoy and relive my Tuscan memories even at home!) The Mazzarrini family are so welcoming and kind that you feel like you are a part of their family. They serve an amazing lunch with the wine tasting that is all fresh, the appetizers and pasta are all homemade and the meats and cheeses are fresh and local. Everything you’d expect with a long Tuscan lunch. The wines are paired perfectly! They are so knowledgeable about the wine! If you take the tour, you will get a wonderful lesson in winemaking and the subtle nuances of each wine that make them fast so delicious! The location! It’s in the heart of Tuscany, in Castellina in Chianti, one of the most beautiful places in Italy! Also a great central location to other cities and not far from Florence for a day trip. And the view…it’s situated on a hilltop so you can see the beautiful rolling hills of vines underneath the crisp blue Tuscan sky with postcard clouds drifting by as you relax and sip your wine. If this experience isn’t La Dolce Vita, I don’t know what is! I highly recommend to do the tour, and get the tasting with the full lunch. It will be one of the best Italian memories of your life, and like me. I bet you will keep coming back...