Podcast 009 | In the Land of Dreams - Visiting Gagliole Winery

Sep 13.

Alessia Riccieri from the Gagliole winery

Today, I'm taking you on a trip to one of the most impressive wineries in the region: Gagliole in Castellina in Chianti. I'll be joined by Alessia, who's the right-hand person to Gagliole's owners, the Bär family.

We're sitting in a newly restored house called La Casina, surrounded by old trees and the chirping of crickets. It's a beautiful summer day, perfect for a chat about wine and history. Villa La Casina, an elegant country house, is located in the charming village of Castellina in Chianti, right in the heart of the Chianti Classico area. The restoration of this house between 2020 and early 2021 has transformed it into an even more beautiful holiday home. Here, eight people can spend wonderful holidays in a private garden with their own pool.

Gagliole - In the Land of Dreams

Gagliole winery belongs to the Swiss Bär-Betschart family, who bought the estate in 1990. Thomas and Monika Bär from Zurich fell in love with this estate and bought it. Their love story began in Castellina in Chianti, where they met at a wine festival in 1987.

Today, we're enjoying a very special wine: the 'new' Chianti Classico Riserva from the 2018 vintage. This wine, 100% Sangiovese, comes from the vineyards of Panzano in Chianti and stands out with its deep, dark berry aromas and spicy notes. Alessia describes it as a typical example of the soul of Panzano in Chianti.

The Wines of Gagliole

Gagliole has a total of 24 hectares of vineyards, spread across Castellina and Panzano. The main grape variety is Sangiovese, complemented by a few rows of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Interestingly, Gagliole also produces two white wines, Biancolo and Il Bianco, from the old grape varieties Proccanico, Malvasia Bianca, and Chardonnay.

The Vinificazione Integrale Method

A special feature at Gagliole is their Vinificazione Integrale method. This fermentation method is done in small 225-liter barrels, which are also used for the first fermentation. The grapes aren't pressed or stressed, which leads to a longer fermentation time and more intense aroma development. This method is mainly used for their top wine, Pecchia, as well as for their Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Gagliole's Olive Oil

Besides wine, Gagliole also produces excellent olive oil. With 1,800 olive trees on the estate, the olive harvest is an important tradition. Gagliole has its own olive mill, which allows them to press the olives immediately after harvest. This keeps them super fresh and ensures the highest quality.

A Love for Roses

Monika Bär, the owner, has a great passion for roses. You'll find them all over the winery, both at Gagliole and at La Valletta in Panzano in Chianti, adding a special atmosphere. The roses aren't just beautiful to look at; you'll also find them on the wine labels of Biancolo, Rubiolo, and the Chianti Classico Riserva.

A visit to Gagliole offers not only excellent wines but also a deep dive into the region's tradition and passion. The Beer-Betschart family has created a true paradise here, where wine, olive oil, and roses come together in perfect harmony.