“With the wine you tell a story, you tell your story. Of your family, your place. Especially at this size.”
We’re in great company with Jacopo and his wife Mary, the newest generation of the Di Battista family to steward their Tuscan agriturismo, Querceto di Castellina in Chianti, Italy.
What began as a countryside family retreat back in 1945, over the years became a working farm of olive groves and vineyards, home to farm animals and a renovated 15th century estate for visitors. Today, guests are greeted by warm smiles, hilltop views, organic wines and authentic experiences at what is a truly family affair: Laura, the matriarch of the family and master of Tuscan cuisine, Giorgio, her loving husband and architect, Jacopo, the founder of the winery, Mary, the head of marketing and hospitality, and Filippo, the director of the agriturismo.
In this episode, Jacopo and Mary share what makes guests “come for the wine and linger for everything else,” including conversations about changing climates in Chianti, the community built during dinners in the vineyards, and a future full of collaborations with local artisans and makers.
Top Takeaways
[3:30] Brief travels back in time to Napa, California where Mary and Jacopo’s love story began over a mutual passion for wine.
[7:05] What Mary brought to the Di Battista’s table, sharing the family’s story, tales of the terroir, and elegant experiences that have attracted guests from all over the world.
[12:45] Al Fresco dining at its source. How the delectable and desired Vineyard Dinners began.
[21:20] The sense of place that makes Querceto di Castellina wines unique, from the organic vineyards to the hilltop terroir.
[25:56] A true look at the impact of climate change on the vines and what it means for not just the grapes, but for future generations of guests who come to drink them.
[32:30] The joy of staying in the charming countryside and using it as a means of visiting the local villages.
[38:58] Advice from an Italian and American on how to learn from their chaotic lives, in taking time to savor “la dolce vita” in your own day to day lives.
Visit For Yourself
- Querceto di Castellina Website
- Book a stay
- Learn about the wines
- Enjoy a cooking class, tasting or vineyard dinner
- Email info@querceto.com to receive a discount on your wine order when you mention SIGC.
- @quercetodicastellina
