An insider guide to our regions
Overview of the San Polo in Rosso
Situated between Florence and Siena, San Polo in Rosso is a sprawling 800-acre estate in the heart of Chianti Classico, made up of rolling vineyards, olive groves and oak forest and has a history dating back at least 1,000 years.
Majestically crowning a hill is a private borgo, or hamlet, consisting of a fortified medieval castle, an 18th-century villa, a Romanesque-Gothic parish church, and several adjacent restored farm houses. Due to its position between the republics of Siena and Florence, the fortified castle rose in strategic importance and was fought over by the intense rivals.
Over the centuries the estate’s vineyard also grew in prominence and it was at this very estate where the standard blend of Chianti wine was developed in the 19th century, which was also the first of Tuscany high quality wines. While the current owners do not produce their own wine, 22 hectares of the estate’s vineyards are leased to a noted local wine maker.
The estate’s church is an architectural jewel. An even older church stood here, before being replaced with the Romanesque structure in the 11th century. Damaged by fire in the 14th century, it had some renovations in the Gothic style. The vaulted ceilings of the nave feature beautiful frescoes dating to 1367 and depicting the life of Christ. There is also a working organ from the late 18th century. The church can be used for weddings and in summer occasional concerts are also held.
This magical location provides the perfect setting for creating special memories with family and friends and its tranquility and splendid natural allure also make it ideal for wellness and creative retreats.
There is a wide range of things to do in the area to complement your Tuscan holiday. Within close proximity are medieval villages, castles and exceptional wineries. The area’s vineyards and fields are crisscrossed with smaller backroads, perfect for exploring on foot or by e-bike. Siena and Florence are also within easy reach and can be visited on day trips from the estate.