Castello di Albola covers over 900 hectares, 110 of which are planted with vines, and enjoys a position of excellence among the highest hills of Chianti Classico. Here, the soils are characterized by two different geological forms, one being alberese and the other galestro. This not only ensures excellent drainage of the soil but it also gives particular minerality and flavor to the wines. The vineyards, a real heritage for the local culture, are located in territories characterized by steep slopes, between 350 and 650 meters above sea level, and enjoy important temperature ranges and an ideal microclimate for the production of refined wines. The historic vineyards of Selvole, Capaccia, Madonnino, Ellere, Marangole, Mondeggi, Sant’Ilario and Acciaiolo are set at altitudes between 350 meters and 550 meters and receive light, as they say in Chianti, “from sun to sun.”  Albola’s signature vineyard is Il Solatìo, which climbs up a breathtaking slope on stony ground between 550 and 600 metres. Finally, at almost 700 metres, there are the very high Chardonnay vineyards. Finally, above 580 meters, there are the very high Chardonnay vines. It is precisely these high altitudes that give rise to unique wines of excellence that continue to receive coveted national and international recognition. The main grape variety is Sangiovese, or rather, the clone of Sangioveto, which is the ancient name for Sangiovese grosso di Toscana, the symbol of Chianti Classico. This is a late-ripening red grape variety, the harvest of which takes place between the last week of September and the first week of October. In addition to Sangiovese, spread over about 90 percent of Castello di Albola’s vineyard area, the other prestigious “red berry” is also cultivated: Cabernet Sauvignon, used to produce the Super Tuscan Acciaiolo. The estate’s prestigious vineyards also host the growth of the white grapes of Chardonnay, Trebbiano and Malvasia del Chianti Classico, the latter two being indispensable to produce the rare Vinsanto di Castello di Albola, another signature product with Tuscan character. To ensure proper and prolonged maintenance, the vines are planted with spurred cordon and guyot. For the protection of this terroir, there is a constant renewal of the plantings, with an average age of about 20 years. Agronomic and viticultural experimentation is continuous and is also conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Agricultural Resources and the Chianti Classico Consortium. The majestic vineyards, like real jewels to be treasured, are surrounded by a casket of oak woods and ancient olive trees. In fact, the vineyards are surrounded by thickets of oaks and downy oaks, punctuated by tall cypress trees and bordered by beautiful olive groves where the Frantoio, Leccino and Moraiolo cultivars are grown, the most typical blend of the great PDO extra virgin olive oil of these lands.