Chianti Classico is a region untouched by time, characterised by rolling hills and rustic villages. These Tuscan features are exemplified at Castello di Radda, a 150ha estate, of which 40ha is planted with vines. A commitment to quality-driven selection and emphasis on terroir guides every decision at the winery, from the vineyard to the glass.
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Castello di Radda: safeguarding tradition while embracing modernity
Organic since 2020, Castello di Radda’s ethos is centred on protecting the traditional landscape and preserving it for future generations, whilst making a modern style of Chianti Classico.
Only large older Slavonian and French barrels and tonneaux are used for maturation, ensuring that Sangiovese’s hallmark succulent red cherry fruit – layered with subtle notes of rosemary – remains at the forefront of the winery’s modern interpretation of Chianti Classico.
The winery, with the set in front of the village of Radda.
The Chianti Classico Riserva is a special selection of the grapes sourced from two different vineyards, each representing the region’s differing soils of clay and galestro.
Both plots are located at higher elevations on the estate and are harvested later, resulting in wines with ripe cherry fruit and concentration, framed with Sangiovese’s signature acidity and firm tannins. A light layer of wood smoke adds complexity and enhances the wine’s longevity. The vocation of both these estates is simple: to create terroir-driven wines that are elegant, contemporary and wonderfully drinkable.
Castello di Radda wines to try:
Castello di Radda, Chianti Classico 2024
95pts
Enticing aromas of tart red cherries and raspberries with a top note of green tea. Juicy, with tangy acidity and smooth tannins which provide texture and body. An excellent example of Sangiovese showcasing the expressiveness and elegance of Chianti Classico. Alcohol 13%
Castello di Radda, Chianti Classico Riserva 2022
97pts
Ripe cherries and plums surrounded by spice and wood smoke. Concentrated and generous in the mouth, balanced with freshness and fine grained tannins. Persistent finish. Can drink now but will age. Alc 14.5%
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Innovative and stylistic: Cantina Fabio Motta
The greatest influence on Bolgheri and its wines comes from proximity to the sea. From sandy loam, clay and limestone soils, to the fresh air that circles through the vineyards, the sea has entrenched terroir into the wines of the region. It is this freshness that is captured in the wines of Cantina Fabio Motta, a 9.6ha estate in Bolgheri. Red wines are produced from two single vineyards Le Pievi and Le Gonnare, each representing the different terroirs of Bolgheri.
In the vines.
Red wines are produced from two single vineyards Le Pievi and Le Gonnare, each representing the different terroirs of Bolgheri. Fruit expression is the focus for Le Pievi (50% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Sangiovese and 10% Syrah) which matures in concrete to showcase vibrant red berry fruit and freshness reminiscent of the cooling sea breezes.
Le Gonnare (70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon), meanwhile, is defined by fruit ripeness, with greater clay content in the soil as well as the reflection of both sun and sea. The wine’s structure and volume benefits from maturation in neutral barriques.
Cantina Fabio Motta wines to try
Cantina Fabio Motta, Le Pievi Bolgheri Rosso 2023
96pts
Aromas of sour cherries burst out of the glass, layered with dill and fennel. Vibrant on the palate with seamless tannins. A bright wine full of energy and finesse. Alc 14%
Cantina Fabio Motta, Le Gonnare 2023
97pts
Ripe blackberries and plums infused with wood smoke and spice. Generous and rich in the mouth with a hint of cedar. Firm yet supple tannins are surrounded by fresh acidity. Poised and elegant on the finish. Long aging potential. Alc 14%
Decanter shares a glass with founder and winemaker Fabio Motta at 67 Pall Mall, London, February 2026.
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