Barone Ricasoli Casalferro

The Ricasoli family has Longobard origins and records exist as far back as the 7th century.

They appeared among the feudal noble dignitaries in the Empire of Charlemagne. From the thirteenth century onwards the branches of the family multiplied and then reunited once more at the turn of the nineteenth century. Lining up with their armies to defend Florence since the thirteenth century, generations of noble Ricasolis have charted the course of history on the backdrop of Brolio Castle, from eternal battles against Siena until the unity of Italy. It was Bettino Ricasoli, the“Iron Baron”, who became Prime Minister of Italy after Cavour.

Baron Bettino Ricasoli was a far-sighted wine entrepreneur as well as a leading protagonist in the Italian Risorgimento and the promoter of Chianti. After years of research and experimentation, he wrote down his formula in a letter in 1872.

The development of viticulture in Brolio by the Ricasoli family has very old and well-documented roots; the business is one of the four oldest in the world and the oldest in Italy, as mentioned by the leading American magazine, Family Business, which deals with the world classification of family businesses. In 1141 Brolio Castle passed into the hands of the Ricasoli family. The family tree, reproduced in a print from 1584, is also one of the first images we have of Chianti.

Since 1993, Francesco Ricasoli, 32nd Baron of Brolio, has been putting together testimonies from previous generations and has been at the helm of the family winery pursuing the goal of renewing the quality and personality of great Brolio wines, which interpret the unique characteristics of the land and its history.

Vineyards

Casalferro was first produced in 1993 upon Francesco Ricasoli’s arrival at the company, and since then inspired him to begin his research into modern methods. Produced only during the best years, Casalferro is a pure Merlot from the vineyard of the same name, a single plot of land, located at 400 m above sea level facing south-southeast. The soil is brown with a fine clay structure very chalky and little, Organic content.

Vinification

The thermo-regulated fermentation occurs between 24°C and 27°C takes 14-16 days. Aged 18 months in tonneaux, 30% of which is new oak.

Tasting Notes

Casalferro was first produced in 1993 when Francesco Ricasoli became President of the company. A pure Merlot produced only during the best years, Casalferro is obtained from the vineyard of the same name which contributes to the exclusive personality of this great Chianti merlot.

Intense ruby red colour. Rich and powerful nose, with hints of dark fruits: blackberry, cranberry, plum, and spices. Voluminous and warm, with delicate and enveloping tannins. The nose returns in the finish. The typical expression of the merlot from Brolio.