Castello dei Rampolla’s cellars—situated near Panzano in the heart of the Chianti Classico zone—date back to the 13th century. Since 1739, the di Napoli family has owned and managed this legendary wine estate, which comprises 128 hectares. The vineyards are particularly conducive to the growth of Sangiovese, as their properties endow the grapes with the capacity for long-term aging. The di Napoli family pursues a viticultural regimen that weds biodynamic production in the vineyard with the operation of a modern cellar.
Castello dei Rampolla’s founder, Alceo di Napoli Rampolla, endured fierce criticism for advocating the synergy between the Panzano area of Chianti and the varietal of Cabernet Sauvignon, a position that received initial validation in the 1980 debut of his first Super-Tuscan, Sammarco, a predominantly Cabernet-based blend (95% Cabernet Sauvignon & 5% Sangiovese) that he conceived in cooperation with Giacomo Tachis. Upon release, Sammarco is typically dark purple in color with ruby highlights; on the palate, it displays a taut structure, yet the palate’s depth and concentration gives the impression of a youth engaged in serious contemplation. Nevertheless, it is inveritably a wine of profound structure that requires several years to reach a full state of maturity.
