Volpaia is situated along the ‘spinal chord’ of the Chianti region of Italy and is one of the many hamlets one comes across when driving through the countryside. Historically, it was well known because of the della Volpaia family of clock and instrument makers, but in more recent times, the Chianti Classico wines have brought fame.

The castle was built in the 10th century as a prime location to guard the frontier area between Florence and Siena. Because 0f its location it was often involved in border disputes, frequently devastated, then rebuilt. Even today however, with such a tumultuous past, it still shows much of the Florentine influence.

Because of the climate and the unique soil, fine wine has been produced here for many years. Strict laws controlling and limiting construction throughout the countryside restricts any new buildings so the production of the wine is carried out in underground vaults of the ancient castle with the bottling operation in a small patrician palace.

The village boasts a population of about 50 persons, three restaurants, and a few vacation rental apartments. A slow easy lifestyle exists in these beautiful hills as life and prosperity of that culture is still (after hundreds of years) based on grapes and olives. Truly worth a stop and a meal ~ as well as a few photographs!