Discover what Galestro is and why it makes the wines of Fattoria di Montemaggio so unique. The mineral secret behind Chianti Classico’s finest expressions.
A Land Written in Stone
High in the hills of Radda in Chianti, where the wind whispers through vineyards and forests guard ancient secrets, there is a stone that defines the very essence of the land: Galestro.
At Fattoria di Montemaggio, this flaky, blue-grey marl is not just part of the soil — it is the silent architect of our wines’ elegance, structure, and longevity. But what exactly is Galestro, and why is it so important to the wines of Chianti Classico?
What Is Galestro?
Galestro is a friable sedimentary rock rich in clay and limestone, typical of Tuscany’s most prestigious wine-growing zones. It breaks easily into thin layers, creating a dry, mineral-rich soil that challenges the vine — and in doing so, enhances the quality of the fruit.
Poor in nutrients and high in drainage, Galestro forces vines to work hard, pushing their roots deep into the earth. This struggle yields fewer but more concentrated grapes, filled with character, complexity, and vibrant acidity.
Galestro & the Vine: A Demanding but Fruitful Relationship
In viticulture, hardship often breeds greatness — and Galestro is proof.
Its physical structure allows rainwater to drain quickly, preventing waterlogging and reducing disease pressure. The struggling vine, in turn, becomes stronger, more self-reliant, and capable of expressing the truest voice of the terroir.
At Fattoria di Montemaggio, this translates into wines that are:
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Elegant and structured,
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Naturally fresh and long-lived,
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Refined, with a mineral edge,
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Deeply expressive of the land.
The Role of Galestro at Montemaggio
Our vineyards stretch across altitudes of 450 to 600 meters, nestled into sunlit slopes where Galestro dominates the soil composition. This stony terrain is integral to the identity of our wines:
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In our Chianti Classico DOCG and Riserva, Galestro gives tension, balance, and graceful tannins.
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In our Torre di Montemaggio Super Tuscan, it tempers the richness of Merlot, adding finesse and structure.
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In our Rosé and Sparkling Wines, it enhances freshness, salinity, and drinkability.
Galestro doesn’t overpower — it elevates, offering purity, poise, and a clear sense of place.
From Stone to Bottle: A Terroir Worth Listening To
At Fattoria di Montemaggio, we see ourselves as interpreters of the land. Working with Galestro demands patience, precision, and respect. That’s why our approach is 100% organic, with no synthetic chemicals or aggressive interventions. We farm by hand, with care for biodiversity, soil health, and long-term vitality.
This is not just winemaking. It’s stewardship — and Galestro is our guide.
Galestro in Every Glass
You can taste the Galestro in every sip of our wines:
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The structured elegance of our Chianti Classico Riserva,
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The mineral precision of our Rosé,
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The complex depth of our Super Tuscan selections.
It’s not just a stone. It’s a legacy. A fingerprint. A quiet force that shapes each vintage from the roots up.
Conclusion: The Silent Architect of Great Wine
Galestro doesn’t speak — but it teaches.
It teaches the vine to dig deep, to struggle and survive. It teaches the winemaker to listen, to adapt, to stay humble. And it teaches us all that beauty often comes from what lies beneath.
At Fattoria di Montemaggio, we are proud to honor this ancient soil in every bottle we produce. Whether you visit our vineyards in the heart of Tuscany or experience our wines at home, you’re tasting not just fruit — but stone, history, and harmony.
Discover the voice of Galestro. Let it speak through our wines.
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