Alta Valle della Greve

• Sangiovese: Known for its bright red cherry and plum flavors, this grape thrives in the cooler, high-altitude climate of Alta Valle della Greve. It offers medium tannins, lively acidity, and notes of dried herbs, often with hints of tobacco or warm spices from oak aging.
• Canaiolo & Colorino: Used to complement Sangiovese, Canaiolo adds floral and red-berry notes, while Colorino brings deeper color and darker fruit flavors, enhancing structure and harmony in blends.
• Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot: These international varieties are blended with Sangiovese to introduce darker fruit flavors and spice, resulting in fuller-bodied wines often aged in barriques.
• Trebbiano & other whites: Limited production of fresh, straw-colored wines featuring apple, citrus, and almond notes, crafted primarily from Trebbiano Toscano, sometimes in blends with Malvasia Bianca.

Alta Valle della Greve enjoys a cooler climate thanks to its elevation, with altitudes ranging from 150 to over 500 meters. This setting fosters a classic Tuscan hillside climate characterized by warm, sunny days and cool nights, essential for cultivating balanced wines. Southern-facing slopes ensure ample sunlight, while cooling breezes maintain low humidity, preserving grape acidity and promoting a steady ripening process.

The region’s diverse soils—from alluvial loams to calcareous clay-limestone—support various grape styles. Stony, galestro-like soils enrich Sangiovese with a mineral touch, while clay pockets add depth. The varied terrain, with its terraces and gentle slopes, channels cooling air, creating distinct microclimates. These elements work in harmony to produce wines marked by ripe fruit, robust structure, and a fresh, savory finish, capturing the essence of Alta Valle della Greve’s unique terroir.

The Alta Valle della Greve region, though small, boasts several notable wineries that reflect its rich viticultural tradition and dedication to quality. Here are a few remarkable producers:

• Villa Lamole: Known for their exquisite Chianti Classico, this winery emphasizes organic farming and traditional winemaking techniques.

Visitors to these wineries can expect intimate tastings often led by the winemakers themselves, who share stories of their vineyards and the land that shapes their wines. These experiences offer a personal glimpse into the craftsmanship and passion behind each bottle.

In the Alta Valle della Greve, sustainability is a core focus, with many growers committed to preserving the region's hillside environment. Organic and biodynamic viticulture is widespread, incorporating cover crops, composts, and non-chemical weeding to enhance soil health and biodiversity. Soil and water conservation are crucial on these slopes, with practices like maintaining terraces and collecting rainwater being common. Energy efficiency is also prioritized, with solar panels and biomass fuels helping reduce carbon footprints.

Mixed farming further supports biodiversity, with olive groves, orchards, and small livestock enriching the landscape. These sustainable practices not only protect the environment but also ensure that the wines of Alta Valle della Greve remain a true reflection of their unique terroir, offering a taste of the region’s rich and harmonious natural landscape.

Alta Valle della Greve offers a unique wine tourism experience in Tuscany's Chianti region, celebrated for its scenic beauty and rich agricultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy intimate wine tastings at small vineyards, often accompanied by local olive oil and seasonal snacks. Many estates also offer charming farmhouse accommodations, providing an authentic stay among the vines.

The region is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with trails perfect for hiking and cycling. These paths connect vineyards and offer breathtaking views, making it a haven for nature lovers. History enthusiasts will appreciate exploring nearby medieval villages and historic estates, which showcase the area's rural past.

Throughout the year, Alta Valle della Greve hosts various festivals and celebrations, including wine harvest events and olive festivals. Its proximity to cultural centers like Florence and Siena makes it a convenient destination for those looking to combine wine exploration with cultural enrichment.