RESORT INFORMATION
Situated in the heart of the beautiful Chianti wine region of Tuscany, this 13th Century Castle which originally belonged to the monks of Coltibuono Abbey, is set on a hilltop at the end of a cypress tree edged lane, just ½ mile south of the village of Gaiole in Chianti.

The Castle still retains its 15th Century fortifications, added at a time when the Republics of Florence and Siena were battling against each other to gain power. More recent 18th Century refurbishment led to rooms being decorated and furnished in traditional Tuscan aristocratic style, and there are many stunning frescoes in the ground floor rooms as well as a beautiful small private theatre. Until about 30 years ago, the Castle was owned by generations of the Ricasoli family, who owned this and nearby Brolio castle. Baron Ricasoli is credited with introducing ‘Chianti’ wine as we know it.

Today, work still continues on the surrounding estates, with the castle's own vineyards growing mainly Sangiovese grapes, which are still harvested by hand and used to make the Chianti Classico and Castello di Meleto Fiore wines. Other vine types such as merlot, cabernet and syrah are also cultivated. In addition, the famous Italian liquor, Grappa, and extra-virgin olive oil are both produced and can be bought at the Castle.

A stay at the Castle includes (either free of charge or local charge):

• Use of the shared swimming pool (open generally 7am to 8pm, May to October)
• Wine tastings and the opportunity to purchase estate wines, olive oil, honey etc at the on-site Wine Shop/Reception.
• Guided visit of the Castle, or a Private tour of the Castle combined with dinner in the Castle, once a week (payable locally).
• Laundry service available at reception (payable locally).

As well as exploring the lovely local countryside on foot, bike hire is possible. For days out by car, Meleto is very centrally located for excursions to Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Arezzo, Perugia, Montalcino, Montepulciano, Chianciano, Bagni Vignoni, Pitigliano, and Saturnia. For eating out locally, there are various pizzerias and restaurants in Gaiole and other surrounding villages.

Accommodation at the Castello di Meleto is either in the Castle itself or in the Canonica (converted chapel), on a bed and breakfast basis, or else is on a self-catering basis in the surrounding apartments. The rooms and the apartments (converted farm buildings) have all been refurbished using local high quality materials.