Ciacci Piccolomini

Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy The estate of Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona dates back to the 17th century. The oldest part of the property, the Palazzo or Palace, was erected by Montalcino’s Bishop in the mid-1600s. Over time, the Palazzo became property of the diocese of Montalcino, then eventually was purchased by the Countess Eva Bernini Cerretani in 1868. She, in turn sold the entire property to Francesco Ciacci, head of a Castelnuono-based family. In the mid 1900s the “Palazzo del Vescovo” became the Palazzo Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona, named to honor the marriage between Count Alberto Piccolomini d’Aragona, a direct descendant of Enea Silvio Piccolomini (Pope Pius 11) and Elda Ciacci. In 1985, the property was inherited by Giuseppe Bianchini, who developed this agricultural estate with the strict intention of upholding its heritage. With determination and pride, he maintains the traditions and culture that are part and parcel of the estate origins. Giuseppe passed away in 2004, leaving an immense series of projects for his children, Paolo and Lucia, who are now at the helm. The vineyards are located on the south to south-west side of Montancino, situated at an altitude of 240 - 360 meters. The stony slopes near the Orcia River benefit from a mild micro-climate. The family now owns three separate wine cellars with modern equipment to deal with the increased production.