Badia a Coltibuono

Ten centuries of unbroken winemaking tradition underpin the history of the Badia a Coltibuono estate, run by the Stucchi Prinetti family. Rejecting mass production and committed to preserving diversity, the estate continues to view wine as an authentic expression of the place where it is produced. Passion, a rejection of the ephemeral, and respect for cultural values and traditions form its ideological foundations. Time is therefore the watchword. The estate takes great care in the ageing of its wines to offer fully mature reserve wines, much to the delight of wine lovers.

Chianti Classico, a historic wine region in Tuscany

The Chianti appellation continues to grow in popularity, in stark contrast to previous decades when Chianti was typically sold in raffia-covered flasks. Chianti Classico is the geographical heart of the appellation, recognisable by its emblem, a black rooster (‘Gallo Nero’), a symbol of the rivalry between Florence and Siena. The appellation’s finest wines are made from the local grape variety, Sangiovese, as opposed to the ‘Super Tuscans’, a more modern alternative based on Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Sustainable environment

The Badia a Coltibuono estate is committed with enthusiasm and determination to protecting natural resources: the land, animals and people. Here, man works in harmony with nature to produce wines that respect the environment. But also the people who live here, biological rhythms and the rhythms of nature. Maintaining the health of the vines is the starting point of the organic approach: controlled grass cover to increase the soil’s organic matter and curb erosion, thereby making the plants more resistant to disease.

Organic farming

Badia a Coltibuono decided to stop using herbicides and insecticides from 1985 onwards, well before its official conversion to organic farming. The estate also decided to replant the vineyard with massal selections from 1988 onwards. Over the years, the organic approach has been successfully integrated into the estate’s operations. Finally, in 1994, the olive groves were certified, followed in 2000 by the vineyards. The management of cover crops, composting and the enhancement of biodiversity are the most essential elements of a truly sustainable organic approach. This improves soil health, which in turn promotes better quality. But it also leads to higher yields and protects the health of workers and the environment. A living, healthy soil also makes the wines more vibrant and helps them express their unique character.

Some photos of the Badia a Coltibuono estate