Castello di Brolio — Winery in Gaiole In Chianti

The Ricasoli family has been making wine from the vineyards around their castle since 1141, which makes Brolio the oldest wine-producing operation in the world to have remained continuously in family hands. Here, on the highest hill of the Chianti Classico area, Baron Bettino Ricasoli devised the original formula for Chianti in the nineteenth century. Tasting options range from a glass at the enoteca to extensive masterclasses. The absolute highlight is the Sunset Tour: an evening tour with a castle and vineyard visit, ending with dinner at the Osteria del Castello, including a wine tasting and the full dinner. Book well in advance. At the foot of the cypress avenue leading to the castle, L'Osteria del Castello serves skilfully reworked traditional Tuscan dishes. Dinner is included for those on the Sunset Tour; other visitors can book the osteria separately, at least two days in advance.