A Historic Winery in the Heart of Tuscany
Located in Montalcino, Tuscany, Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona is one of the most emblematic family-owned wineries in the region.
The origins of the estate date back to the 17th century, when it was originally a noble property. In 1985, Countess Elda Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona, who passed away without heirs, bequeathed the estate to her cellar master Giuseppe Bianchini. He transformed the historic aristocratic property into a fully functioning winery, becoming its founder and first owner in its modern form.
Today, the estate is managed by his children Paolo and Lucia Bianchini, with the involvement of the next generation, Alex and Ester, Paolo’s children. Renowned for its Brunello di Montalcino made from Sangiovese, the estate embodies a perfect balance between heritage, family passion, and winemaking excellence.
Wine Tourism & Vineyard Visits in Tuscany
The estate welcomes visitors for guided vineyard visits and wine tastings by reservation. Guests are invited to explore the winemaking process behind Brunello di Montalcino, followed by a tasting experience either in the cellar tasting room or on the panoramic terrace of a beautifully restored Tuscan farmhouse overlooking the winery.
It is a truly authentic experience for anyone seeking immersive vineyard visits in Tuscany, Italy.
Style & Terroir: The Soul of Brunello di Montalcino
Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona is located on the south-eastern slope of Montalcino.
The estate covers 220 hectares, including 55 hectares of vineyards and 40 hectares of olive groves. Situated between Monte Amiata and the Orcia River, and about one hour from the Tyrrhenian coast, the estate benefits from a unique microclimate influenced by both altitude and maritime breezes.
The main grape variety is Sangiovese Grosso, a thick-skinned clone known for producing structured, high-quality wines even in challenging vintages. Since 2018, the vineyards have been certified organic, reflecting a strong commitment to biodiversity and sustainability.
Winemaking follows traditional methods, including aging in large Slavonian oak casks ranging from 7.5 to 75 hectolitres. This slow maturation process allows Rosso and Brunello di Montalcino wines to develop elegance, complexity, and a strong sense of place.
The soils, rich in Eocene-era marl and schist, bring minerality, tension, and depth to the wines—key characteristics of top Brunello wines.
Brunello wines from the estate are known for their precision, red fruit aromas, spice, and balsamic notes, supported by firm tannins and exceptional aging potential. The Rosso wines are more approachable in their youth, offering freshness, balance, and elegance.
The Wines
IGT Toscana 2024 – $30.22
Aromas of dried herbs (thyme, rosemary), red cherries, orange zest, and a subtle hint of chocolate. Fresh and vibrant on the palate with firm tannins and a linear, well-balanced structure.
Rosso di Montalcino 2024 (Unavailable)
Notes of candied cherries, saline and earthy tones, along with dried rose petals and liquorice. Energetic on the palate with silky tannins and a long, savory finish.
Brunello di Montalcino Annata 2020 – $124.57
Aromatic profile of coffee, dried fruit, liquorice, toffee, dates, and plum. Despite a warm vintage, the wine remains fresh with smooth tannins and a long, caramel-tinged finish.
Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso 2018 (Unavailable)
Savory and meaty aromas with dried fruits, citrus (apricot), coffee, caramel, and dried herbs. Powerful yet refined with structured tannins and a spicy, warm finish.
Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso 2013 (Unavailable)
Smoky and earthy nose with dried fruits and chocolate notes. More fruit-forward expression with rounded texture and balanced acidity.
Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso 2012 (Unavailable)
Floral aromas, dried orange peel, spices, and liquorice. Juicy yet austere on the palate with firm tannins and excellent aging potential.
A Must-Visit Estate for Wine Lovers in Tuscany
Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona is a remarkable destination for wine tourism in Tuscany. It offers visitors an authentic and intimate experience of Brunello di Montalcino, combining history, terroir, and family tradition.
For anyone planning vineyard visits in Italy, this estate is a true reference point for understanding the soul of Montalcino wines.
The wines are available in Quebec through Onivino.
