Castello di Meleto, Tuscany

Hotel. Blossoming out of the idyllic Chianti landscape, Castello di Meleto sits amongst the swaying junipers and the gentle sloping vineyards. Once the home of Benedictine monks, the strong 15th century structure provides a sense of royalty and aristocracy. Complete with an 18th century theater in the Villa Nobile, the Castello di Meleto invites everyone to come make their own fairytale. This small quaint castle has a reputation for its beautiful weddings and even more beautiful surroundings. Located a short distance outside of Siena, the castle takes advantage of the Tuscan sun and soil by producing award-winning Chiantis.

Wine. With vineyards covering almost 180 hectares around the castle, the prevailing grapes are cultivated and evolved into the production of Chianti Classico, Merlot, Cabernet, Syrah and other varieties. The wine makers have found that the soil of marl and alberese has produced the best, most fragrant fruits. The winery’s most successful wines – Chianti Classico DOCG, Chianti Classico DOCG Reserve, Castello di Meleto Fiore – are all elegant with modern tastes and superior structure and body.