Plans do not always unfold as anticipated. Even in well-established estates, each vintage can present unexpected challenges: rainfall, excessive heat, or droughts can completely alter the character of the grape. It was during one such challenging year, 1989, that the Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona estate decided not to produce Brunello, upholding the standard of excellence demanded by this designation. From that decision emerged Ateo, a wine that broke with tradition without sacrificing elegance, a symbol of the courage to persevere against the odds.
This project has quite a history. The estate's roots trace back to the 17th century, preserving its historical heritage in the palace built by Bishop Fabivs de’ Vecchis. Following several acquisitions and the union of the Ciacci and Piccolomini d’Aragona families, the palace came to be known by its current name. In 1985, Countess Elda Ciacci bequeathed the estate to Giuseppe Bianchini, who modernised wine production, enhancing its quality and paving the way for international export. After his passing in 2004, the management was taken over by his children Paolo and Lucia, the current proprietors, who maintain a vision of innovation while respecting tradition.
Here is where Ateo has established itself as a wine of character and elegance. The vineyard thrives in soils of medium texture with a good level of galestro, of Eocene origin, at altitudes ranging between 240 and 360 metres above sea level, ideal for the cabernet sauvignon and merlot varieties. Subsequently, in the winery, fermentation occurs in stainless steel and glazed concrete tanks, with controlled temperature, allowing aromas and flavours to develop with precision.
Intense, structured, and harmonious, Ciacci Piccolomini Ateo is a wine within the DOC Sant'Antimo in Tuscany, reflecting the estate's century-old history and the boldness of a project born to explore new possibilities. A wine that celebrates the freedom to create exceptional wines, even when nature does not follow the plan.