It is just remarkable that the The Frescobaldi family have been producing wine in Tuscany for seven hundred years, beginning in the early 1300s. Their impact in Florence was built upon controlling key guilds, notably the Arte della Lana (wool guild), the Arte di Calimala (guild of foreign cloth merchants and finishers), and the Cambio (money exchange).
The Frescobaldi family began producing Tuscan wine in 1308 and quickly established an esteemed clientele. An intriguing historical detail from 1308 includes a documented exchange where Michelangelo Buonarroti traded his artwork for Frescobaldi wine. Additionally, the Frescobaldis supplied wine to King Henry VIII of England; surviving contracts in the family archives bear the English king's signature.
Lamberto Frescobaldi is now the 30th generation at the helm. In 2016, he was elected Vice President of Unione Italiana Vini, Italy's leading federation of winemakers, becoming its President in 2022. His house produces a range of wines including Brunello di Montalciino and Chianti Classico. I really enjoyed these wines, particularly the 2018 Frescobaldi ‘Castel Giocondo’ Brunello di Montalcino (OB, 92) which is a great showing right now and is drinking marvelously in its smooth mouthfeel. Learn more about this storied house at https://www.frescobaldi.com/en/history and here are my reviews on the new Frescobaldi wines.
2018 Frescobaldi ‘Castel Giocondo’ Brunello di Montalcino- The really good 2018 Frescobaldi ‘Castel Giocondo’ Brunello di Montalcino is showing brilliantly now at the seven year mark. Soft upon entry, this delivers red rose water and wild blackberry flavors that combine with shades of wild strawberry and Arabica bean notes on the palate. Drink 2025-2032- 92
2021 Frescobaldi ‘Tenuta Perano’ Chianti Classico- Dusty tannins combine with beautiful red roses and red currants on the nose. The palate is soft and elegant with juicy acidity and a bright core of red fruits. Drink 2025-2031- 90
2021 Frescobaldi ‘Castello Nipozzano’ Sangiovese- The 2022 ‘Castello Nipozzano’ Red Wine delivers damp soils and orange peel notes on the nose with roasted figs. The palate is smooth and nicely textured, with a great amalgamation of red and dark fruits, alongside coffee ground accents. Drink 2025-2031- 91