HISTORY

The Villa Serravalle is built on the ruins of a 14th century Sienese watchtower. Its name literally means “Defender of the Valley” indicative of its importance to Siena in keeping watch for invading armies from its arch rival Florence to the north. As it sits on the original Florentine/Sienese city state line, Serravalle was responsible for sending smoke signals, warning the Sienese of advancing Florentine armadas. Its remnants, however, predate the Renaissance to the post Etruscan period of 600-700 AD. This magnificent villa was restyled in the mid 1400’s, 1700’s, 1800’s, and again in 1983, when water and electricity were installed for the first time.

During and after the Renaissance, Serravalle was a functioning farm, growing grapes, olives, wild berries, peaches, apples, nectarines, pears, walnuts, almonds, and figs in support of the local settlers. In 1716, the Medici family dominated the Chianti region (and the Chianti Classico wines) the first (oldest) formal wine region in the world. This denomination is still symbolized by the famed “Gallo Nero” or Black Rooster label. Serravalle’s vineyards and olive orchards have recently been awarded, indicating that their grape and olive varieties meet strict historical standards. This distinction allows Serravalle wines and olive oil to be exported and available in America today.

The Serravalle estate remains a working and expanding niche vineyard with output of three proprietary varietals – a Chianti Classico, Chianti Classico- Riserva and an IGT Super Tuscan blend. With its own enologist, and specialized cantina, its total production is expected to approach 30,000 bottles per year in the next five years. Within that same time period, its “cold first press” olive oil production is expected to exceed 15,000 bottles.

Amenities

CREATE YOUR OWN EXPERIENCE
WHILE AT SERRAVALLE:
Capture your visit with a portrait from a well respected,National Geographic Traveler photographer.

Experience customized cooking classes in full-service kitchen with the finest chefs of the region.

Outdoor bar-b-que is also perfect for grilling the essential Italian third-course meats, complete with grilling tips from the chef of the region.

Combine a cooking lesson with a multi-course wine tasting and the perfect finish to your meal and day is complete.

Dining facilities are perfect for your family or corporate events and your gathering will become an elegant dining experience not soon be forgotten.

WHILE IN THE HEART OF SIENA:

Experience unique shopping experience looking for old, new, designer, and contemporary wares. Enjoy exclusive discounts when our experienced staff take you to those special places.

Serravalle’s close proximity to Siena allows for exploring in depth a fascinating, classically medieval fortress city. Siena maintains its traditions and 16th century look with its massive outer walls, towers and narrow winding streets.

Visit the famed square, the Piazza del Campo ‚which is the focus of Siena’s civic life. The piazza is also the sight of the fabled horserace called ‚ The Palio. The Palio, a 90 second, no-holds barred, bareback horse race (the most dangerous horse race in the world) complete with pageantry and passion that have survived intact for centuries. At Serravalle you can watch it from your own private balcony!

Events

All year enjoy shopping for fine chocolates, bonbons and cashmere garments in the city of Perugia.

Florence is a must see for the Duomo, the Medici Chapels, Uffizi Gallery and the outdoor markets
for shopping.

Visit the coastal town of Viarreggio and Pisa where the Italian Leaning Tower is also within easy reach.

SEASONAL EVENTS
The fabled walled city of Siena is a mere 15 minutes away and is one of Italy’s most enchanting medieval towns. The heart of the town is the piazza del Campo where the frenzied 1500 year old horse race “The Palio” is held every July and August.