Trip To Tuscany

The art of wine

Walking the sun dappled paths through this 12th century hamlet, taking in the sway of the apricot trees and discovering the incredible artworks dispersed throughout the historic property, is an experience that is only seconded by discovering the precious wines of this tiny powerhouse of a producer. Welcome to Castello di Ama, one of Tuscany’s most acclaimed winery hotels.

BEST KNOWN for its luxurious approach to hospitality that combines the twin passions of second generation owner Lorenza Sebasti, the property is as synonymous with forward-thinking art as much as it is respected for its quality Italian wines. As the second generation owner of the winery, Sebasti runs a tight ship that is not without lashings of that inimitable Italian sprezzatura; on the drive into the property, you’re met with the tumbling bucolic vista that is the Chianti Classico region, resplendent with rich, lush vineyards whose vibrant emeralds vie for prominence among the endless blue skies and creamy, wind-whipped clouds.

Described as “a microcosm of wine, art and hospitality”,

Castello di Ama plays its part flawlessly by immersing guests into a world of stories. Much of the magic comes from the historic set itself, where you might discover contemporary Japanese art in a meditative chapel, or sample a glass of Chianti Classico on the terrace surrounded by distant birdsong. Sebasti has ensured that all of the art on property has carved out its own home for life, rather than being supplanted temporarily into its surroundings. From the Bella Vista suite located on the first floor of the Villa Ricucci building, you’ll be able to see the majestic mirrored wall by Daniel Buren reflecting the beauty of the San Lorenzo vineyards from your double arched window; deep underground, within the ageing chambers, the harsh red neon of Revolution/Love by South African artist Kendell Geers casts a powerful glow over barrels of wine. While meandering the grounds and allowing serendipity to take over in the discovery of these immersive art pieces, the property naturally arranges tours and tastings for guests to savour the fuller context of the initiative.

Every guest is welcomed as though they are familia, and nowhere is that recognisable Italian hospitality more apparent than over a meal at Il Ristoro, which serves the rustic flavours of the region through a contemporary filter. It is here that you must try the iconic panzanella, the beloved Tuscan chopped salad that somehow transforms stale bread, ripe tomatoes and onions into an explosion of tantalising flavour and texture, best washed down with a glass from the Castello di Ama vineyards—we recommend the 2011 Haiku, a truly poetic blend of 50% Sangiovese, 25% Cabernet Franc and 25% Merlot.

Castello di Ama, Località Ama, 55, 53013 Gaiole In Chianti SI, Italy

THE ART OF WINEMAKING Castello di Ama has stood out among its peers thanks not only to its considered approach to winemaking, but also its thoughtfully curated art programming