Casteldelpiano

Casteldelpiano is a small, family-run organic and natural wine producer in the Lunigiana region of Tuscany, Italy. The winery is known for its dedication to "heroic viticulture" and its focus on reviving historic, native grape varieties.

History and Location

  • Location: The winery is situated in the Lunigiana, a historic region that bridges Tuscany and Liguria, in the province of Massa Carrara. The vineyards are located on steep, terraced slopes at the foot of the Apennine mountains, a difficult terrain that requires all work to be done by hand.

  • The Founders: Casteldelpiano was founded in 2003 by a couple who left their careers in Milan to pursue a dream of a simpler life connected to the land. They found and restored a small, historic castle that had been abandoned, along with its surrounding vineyards.

  • Philosophy: The philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for the land and the history of the region. They are committed to a sustainable, holistic approach that goes beyond simple organic farming.

Winemaking Philosophy

Casteldelpiano's winemaking is a direct reflection of its organic and biodynamic approach in both the vineyard and the cellar.

  • Organic and Biodynamic Farming: The vineyards are certified organic and biodynamic. They avoid all chemical products, relying on natural methods to maintain the health of the soil and vines. They produce their own compost and use biodynamic preparations.

  • Indigenous Grapes: The winery is a champion of the local, historical grape varieties of Lunigiana, including Vermentino Nero, Pollera, and Merla (Canaiolo). They also grow well-adapted international grapes like Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio, and Chardonnay.

  • Minimal Intervention: In the cellar, their approach is to guide the wine with as little intervention as possible.

    • Spontaneous Fermentation: All wines are fermented using indigenous yeasts.

    • No Filtration: The wines are unfined and unfiltered, preserving their natural character.

    • Low Sulfur: The use of sulfur is kept to a very low level.

  • Varied Styles: The winery produces a diverse range of wines, from sparkling pétillant naturel to traditional still reds and whites, and even "orange wines" made with skin contact.

Notable Wines

Casteldelpiano's wines are celebrated for their authenticity and unique character, a result of their commitment to rare grapes and natural methods.

  • Luna Lies: A sparkling rosé wine made using the pétillant naturel method from a blend of Vermentino Nero and Canaiolo. It's known for its fine fizz and vibrant, fruity character.

  • Sassomano: A red wine made from the indigenous Canaiolo grape (known as Merla in the area). It's a structured and complex red with an earthy, spicy character.

  • Claré: A rosé wine made with a short period of skin maceration, a perfect expression of their hands-off style.

  • Pepe Nero: A red wine made from the rare Vermentino Nero grape. It is known for its unusual spice and black fruit notes, showcasing a grape that has been largely forgotten.

  • PianPiano: A white wine, often a blend of Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay, that is aged for a long time on its lees, resulting in a complex and layered wine.