A Medieval History

During all the middle ages and part of the renaissance Siena and Florence, two of the most important cities in Tuscany, spent most of their time at war with each other. The conflict ended only in 1599, when the Republic of Siena was defeated and ceased to exist.

Selvole was on the frontline of this war, located near the Arbia river, which marks the border of the High Chianti region. The same river was made notorious by Dante Alighieri, who defined it as “stained in red” for the blood shed in the battle of Montaperti fought in 1260.

Around 1200, 90 families were loyal to Selvole, and more than 300 people lived there. The castle was later destroyed and given from the Republic of Siena to an important family, the Malavolti, with the task to rebuild it and make it an defensive outpost. The property stayed with the Malavolti family until 1969.

Since then, the structure has been refurbished, with the castle being rebuilt in a villa, and the addition of new buildings of the agriturismo, that welcome our guests.

Our story

Their passion for quality wine started while living in France, where Guido used to work as a correspondent for the economic daily paper Il Sole 24 Ore. They both studied at the Enology Institute of Bordeaux University. After 25 years of active journalism and a good knowledge of winemaking, the decision to buy a winery and produce wine seemed like a natural transition.

Come discover with us the charming process of wine making in the Chianti Classico!