The vineyards are located in the southern part of Chianti Classico, in Castelnuovo Berardenga, just a few minutes from Siena. This viticultural heritage is immersed in a natural landscape rich in biodiversity, protected by surrounding woods that help preserve its balance.
These thirty years of production have been a long and continuous journey of studying our territory», says Pepe Schib Graciani, Global Brand Ambassador of the estate.
The vineyards span an altitude range from 300 to 650 meters above sea level, with soils that vary from sand and galestro to pebbles. This diverse topography, articulated in almost 100 individual plots, allows for the cultivation of different grape varieties, each capable of authentically expressing its full potential.
Tenuta di Arceno embodies two worlds: on one hand, the tradition of Sangiovese, which tells the story of the heart of Chianti Classico; on the other, an international vision with varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, which give voice to the territory through a contemporary lens.
The estate was acquired in 1994 by Jess Jackson and Barbara Banke, founders of Jackson Family Wines. A turning point came in 1997 with the arrival of Pierre Seillan and in 2002 of Lawrence Cronin. A new chapter began, marked by in-depth research, micro-zoning, and a focused enological vision. It was in this context that micro-parcels were identified, which today form the backbone of the estate’s production.
«It was a crucial transition, which now allows us to focus on single-varietal labels that can purely express the potential of our land», Graciani explains.
This philosophy is embodied in wines such as Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Strada al Sasso, Arcanum - which became a pure Cabernet Franc starting with the 2016 vintage - and Valadorna, a 100% Merlot.
«It would be easier to rely on blends of different varieties to harmonize the best characteristics of each grape. But the challenge of single-varietals pushes us to maximize the value of each grape, expressing the deep identity of the estate», says Graciani.
The work of observation and experimentation continues, driven by a vision that constantly looks to the future. In 2024, the estate introduced Rosambra, an elegant rosé made from Sangiovese, and new projects are already underway, including a Chardonnay label grown at 650 meters above sea level, expected in the coming years.
«We never stop. We’re looking into amphorae and considering the introduction of large casks alongside the French oak barriques. It’s still too early to talk about new labels, but many ideas are evolving».
Loc. Arceno, 53019 - San Gusmè (SI) - tenutadiarceno.com
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