Our Story
They say that from small acorns grow mighty oaks. So is the story of Querciabella.
1974
Giuseppe (Pepito) Castiglioni, an industrial entrepreneur and lifelong wine enthusiast and collector, acquired a small estate in Ruffoli, overlooking Greve in Chianti, with the ambition to produce wines that transcended boundaries—wines that could capture the beauty of Tuscany and share it with the world. From that vision, Querciabella was born: an enduring expression of elegance, harmony, and the uncompromising pursuit of oenological excellence.
1980—1995
Under Pepito’s guidance, Querciabella swiftly rose to prominence as one of Italy’s most forward-thinking wine producers. In a period of bold innovation and expansion, Pepito, a passionate wine connoisseur, planted French varieties and created the groundbreaking Camartina and Batàr. He acquired new vineyards and built a brand new, state-of-the-art cellar to support the estate’s growing ambitions. During this time, Querciabella also looked beyond Chianti Classico toward the untamed beauty of Maremma, planting the seeds for a new chapter in its winemaking journey.
1996—2024
In the mid-Nineties, Sebastiano Cossia Castiglioni took the reins of the estate from his father, steering Querciabella into a new era of purpose and innovation. Guided by a deep commitment to animal welfare and environmental stewardship – and grounded in extensive wine knowledge – he transformed Querciabella into one of Italy’s leading voices in sustainable viticulture, committing to strict organic agriculture, then in 2000 adopting full vegan biodynamic standards. During his tenure, Palafreno, Mongrana, Turpino and the first single vineyard Chianti Classicos came into being. Among numerous accolades, in 2004 Querciabella won the award for Best Italian Wine with Camartina 2000.
Today
As we celebrate our 50th vintage, the legacy of Querciabella securely rests in the hands of Mita Castiglioni, Pepito’s eldest daughter, and her children Andrea and Selene. Mita has brought a fresh perspective and renewed energy to the pioneering spirit that has long defined Querciabella’s success. With Sangiovese at the centre of its winemaking, the estate continues to evolve alongside a global audience that values authenticity, craftsmanship, and wines with a distinctive sense of place.
Tomorrow
Querciabella aspires to be a global beacon in the wine industry, leading with a vision where wine can inspire meaningful change. We strive to innovate with purpose, shaping a lasting legacy of sustainability, prosperity, and positive impact for generations to come.
