The Tuscan winemaking tradition was formed over 3,000 years ago when the Etruscans cultivated vines and made wine. During the Middle Ages, battles raged between Siena and Florence for control of this fruitful land. This led to the construction of the region's many castles or Castelli. As part of the fortification, the "cavaliere" knight on horseback, as depicted on their labels, protected the owner from the threat of invasion.

Construction of the Castello began in 1124 and included a wine cellar intended for the production and conservation of wine. The existence of the wine cellar is proof that wine was being made at the estate from the beginning of its history. The estate's original owners, the Bardis, were one of the wealthiest Florentine banking families.

In 1505, the Soderinis added the round towers to the Castello's four corners. The round towers are an example of the influence of French architectural style. It was during the Soderini era that the castle was transformed into a structure very similar to the one that stands today. In 1506, when the township of Bolgna urged the rulers (seigniory) of Florence to send Michelangelo to Bologna, it was Castello di Gabbiano’s Pier Soderini who wrote a letter of introduction for Michelangelo. It said:
“The bearer of this letter is the sculptor Michelangelo. We place him at your disposal to serve His Holiness, Our lord. We bear witness that he is a very talented young man and second to none as regards to art in Italy and maybe in the whole world. It is not possible for us to recommend him warmly enough; he is so good natured that, with gentleness and friendship, you can obtain all you want from him. You must treat him lovingly and kindly and he will make things that will amaze everyone who will see them.” Discover more at www.gabbiano.com.

Gabbiano Chianti, Tuscany 2003
Price $12
Rating 86
The nose is subtle with mushroom aromas. The sip is bright with red cherry and ripe cherry tomato. There are elements of red licorice of pepper in the medium length.

Gabbiano Chianti Classico, Tuscany 2002
Price $18
Rating 89
The nose is earthy with a slight element of bret, the source of barnyard aromas in some wines and a very classic Old World style of winemaking. The sip is a spectrum of black cherry, black licorice, plum and earthy tar.
There is a good length on the palate.

Gabbiano Chianti Classico Riserva, Tuscany 2000 Price $17 Rating 90 The nose is soft with light mineral. The sip offers delicate cherry and dried mushroom. Throughout its colorful history, Tuscany has been a land of important artists and scientists, talented and forward-thinking merchants, and powerful politicians. Its castles, culture, and natural wonders make it a unique and memorable destination for millions of tourists every year.

Gabbiano Chianti Classico Riserva, Tuscany 2002 Price $25 Rating 91 The nose is rich with dark fruit, earthy tar and dried mushroom. The sip is chewy with black cherry, anise, licorice, candied citrus and earthy tar through the long, finish. The blend is primarily of Sangiovese and Canaiolo.