Castello di Querceto have been producing wine in the heart of Tuscany’s Chianti Classico zone since the late 19th century.

The estate’s philosophy is driven by the current custodian, Alessandro Francois, whereby selection is paramount. Like his French ancestors, meticulous selection drives everything Alessandro does almost to the point of obsession. The Il Picchio is no exception.

Classified as Gran Selezione it is the highest class a Chianti Classico wine can aspire to. This is a wine ranked above that of Riserva, with a minimum of 24 months ageing in oak. Only the best grapes from vines aged a minimum of 35 years old from one specific single vineyard, located a stone’s throw from the Castello.

Il Picchio is a cuvee of Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino (all native varieties to the Chianti Classico zone) and is a “Cru” wine, among the first of it’s type. Spanning only 4.5 hectares and facing south-south east at an altitude of 420-450 meters above sea level. Production is small and limited to 25,000 bottles only. Consistantly it produces wines a with wonderful concentration, depth and precision that other producers find hard to match.

The 2015 shows a wonderful purity, roundness and complexity. A very smooth body with silky tannins, fresh minerality, dark and pure fruit with great depth and concentration. It finishes full and meaty. Perfect with smoked meat, rabbit stew or lamb shoulder.