Tenuta di Arceno has been a center of wine production and agriculture for over a thousand years. The estate is located near the confluence of two rivers: the Ambra, which flows to Florence, and the Ombrone, which flows to the Mediterranean Sea. In ancient times, this area was a hub of Etruscan civilization. In honor of its history, the name Arceno comes from the Etruscan word Archè, meaning "origin." The Tenuta di Arceno estate eventually came into the hands of two historically prominent and respected Italian families—the Del Taja and Piccolomini families. The Del Taja family began purchasing plot by plot in 1504, expanding the estate and adding architectural improvements. In 1829, the Del Taja family sold the property to the Piccolominis, one of Siena's most illustrious families, who created the beautiful romantic gardens, lake, and outdoor gardens that still exist today. Continuing the family-owned history, Tenuta di Arceno was acquired in 1994 by Jess Jackson and Barbara Banke who still make Tenuta di Arceno's wines today
Nestled in the heart of the Chianti region lie the centuries-old vineyards of Tenuta di Arceno. Some vines are over a hundred years old and produce few bunches, but their quality is unparalleled. This Chianti Classico Riserva uses primarily Sangiovese, supplemented with a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon. The vineyards are situated in the ideal climate, with abundant sunshine and cool river breezes. Thanks to their deep roots, the plants are well-suited to the hot summers, and after a long, peaceful growth period, the bunches are harvested by hand. They are transported in small crates to the Tenuta di Arceno Winery and pressed for a gentler fermentation. After fermentation, this red Chianti Classico Riserva is aged for at least twelve months in oak barrels. Some of the barrels used are new, which gives this red wine even more power. The aroma reveals abundant notes of blueberry, vanilla, and honey. The taste is powerful and very refined, with beautiful nuances of cherry, cedar, and orange peel. The finish is long and very refined with lots of black and red fruit and of course a lot of spiciness.
