Barone Ricasoli

From WikiCover

Steeped in history, Barone Ricasoli's involvement in wine-making dates as far back as 1141. The Castello di Brolio Estate, which includes a fortress constructed during the Middle Ages, has been the seat of Barone Ricasoli since the 12th century. The 3,000 acre Tuscan estate is located near Siena in the heart of Chianti Classico. The Ricasoli family is credited for developing the Sangiovese-based blend that became the basis for Chianti Classico. In fact, it was in 1874 that Baron Bettino Ricasoli, the "father of Chianti" and later, Premier of Italy, is said to have created the ideal formula for a wine that was later used to define the Chianti Classico appellation in 1967.

In the mid-nineteen nineties, Francesco Ricasoli, the 32nd Baron, regained family control of the winery after more than two decades of corporate ownership. Over the last decade the Ricasoli family has invested heavily in replanting most of its vineyards which extend over 620 acres. They have focused on reducing crop yields, upgrading the company's wine-making techniques and investing in advanced equipment to produce premium wines indicative of the region. Today, Barone Ricasoli owns the largest single estate in the Chianti Classico area.

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On November 16, 2007, Remy Cointreau announced that it has entered into an agreement with Barone Ricasoli to become the exclusive importer of its Tuscan wines to the United States. The deal includes Barone Ricasoli's portfolio of wines including Castello di Brolio Chianti Classico, Brolio Chianti Classico, Rocca Guicciarda Chianti Classico Riserva, Chianti del Barone, Casalferro, Campo Ceni, Torricella Chardonnay and Vin Santo.