Castello di Vicchiomaggio

Vicchiomaggio Castle in Chianti is straight out of a storybook.  It appears out of nowhere driving south on the Chianti route n.222, one of the most scenic roads you can travel down outside of Florence going all the way to Siena.  Just past kilometer 18 you see the vineyards crawl up the hillside in perfect rows like soldiers marching.  Then, where the vineyards end at the top of the hill, the castle tower rises above the cypress trees to claim ownership of all the surrounding land.  See wedding details and sample menu after the gallery.

History

16th century Tuscan castles were typically built on a hilltop overlooking vineyards and olive groves. In contrast to medieval stone castles with four defense towers, renaissance castle styling was much more elegant, bearing a single tower.

Vicchiomaggio was passed down through families over the centuries and castle-owner John Matta and his family successfully run the estate.  John married a local girl, and now Paola runs the hospitality area along with their daughters Victoria, Federica and Delfina making sure guests are comfortable and enjoy the castle’s typical Tuscan cuisine (catch Delfina’s youtube channel for some great cooking lessons!). John and son Sebastian take care of the vineyards, cellars, and blending Vicchiomaggio’s award-winning wines.

Venue features for weddings:

• Accommodates up to 50 guests (extra accommodations nearby)
• Minimum stay 2 nights
• Air conditioned rooms
• No elevators
• In-house catering and wine list
• up to 220 guests (plan B 200)
• Wedding fees apply for exclusive use
• Activities:  cooking classes, wine tasting, wine blending

There are 7 rooms in the main castle and they are furnished with period furniture alongside modern conveniences like aircon and kitchenettes.

Another 7 rooms are located in the Canonica building just outside the main gate and across from the wine cellar entrance.  This is where clergy lived, sharing a wall with the catholic chapel and bell tower.  The Canonica rooms are furnished in chic Tuscan style and they share a common space with a large dining table, fridge, and living room.

Sample menu