Mazzei

The Mazzei family are certainly no strangers in Tuscany. The family has been producing wine since the 14th century. The name Mazzei is first mentioned in official winegrowing documents in 1398. They have now grown into one of the most important producers in Italy. The property consists of three wineries: Castello di Fonterutoli, Belguardo and Zisola. Philip Mazzei has played an important role in gaining worldwide prestige. Today, the 25th generation is at the helm of the winery.

Phillip Mazzei first worked as a merchant in London, where he met several traders and entrepreneurs from Virginia. One of them was Thomas Adams. He believed the land in Virginia had great potential and encouraged Philip to create an agricultural plan for it. Mazzei's idea was to transfer the Tuscan wine-growing traditions to this city. He left for Virginia in 1773 with a collection of vines and olive trees. After several years, Philip returned to Montalcino and bought a 700-hectares estate. This was the beginning of the Mazzei family dynasty.

To honor the legacy of Philip Mazzei, a Philip Mazzei cuvée has been launched. The wine represents his revolutionary character and at the same time symbolizes freedom and happiness. The wine is produced from the best Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from Castello di Fonterutoli and Belguardo Estate.

The oldest vineyards of Mazzei are located in Castelnuovo Berardenga, Castellina and Radda. These last two villages are located in Chianti. The winery Zisola is located on the island of Sicily. The other two wineries can be found in Chianti and Maremma, both in Tuscany.

The vineyards in Tuscany are mainly planted with Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Ermentino. In Sicily, the grape varieties in the vineyards are Nero d'Avola, Grillo and Catarratto. The total area of all plots is 210 hectares. All wines are produced in such a way that they all express their terroir. The wines are produced according to age-old Italian traditions. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks or in barrels. The red wines are then aged in French oak barrels. Each wine has its own unique character. Castello di Fonterutoli produces three crus: Vicoregio 36, Castello Fonterutoli and Badiòla. The main wines of Belguardo are Tirrenico, Tenuta Belguardo and Bronzone. The main wines of Zisola are Doppiozeta, Zisola and Azisa.

Mazzei belongs to Italy’s top and the wines are very popular among wine lovers. The best vintages are: 1997, 1999, 2001, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2013, 2015 and 2016.