We didn’t choose Podere Ferrale, it chose us. Amid vineyards, olive trees, and centuries-old walls, we found the courage to change our lives and write a new story, one harvest at a time.
A top of a hill in the iconic region of Chianti Classico, in Radda in Chianti, lies Podere Ferrale, an estate where history, family, and dreams intertwine. A thousand years ago, a watchtower stood here; today, a small family-run farm tends its vineyards and olive groves with the same care as in centuries past, yet with eyes set on the future.
After a life abroad, Franco and Samanta returned to their roots, restoring the property with respect and determination. Each bottle of wine and every drop of oil tells their story — one of work, learning, and an authentic love for this beautiful region.
The Territory
Between Florence and Siena, the Chianti Classico region is one of the world’s oldest and most renowned wine zones.
Its history dates back to the Etruscans and Romans and was formalized in 1716 under Grand Duke Cosimo III de’ Medici. Its emblem, the Black Rooster, represents centuries of tradition and quality.
Here, Sangiovese thrives on galestro and alberese soils, yielding wines of elegance, freshness, and depth.
Radda in Chianti is one of the five historic Chianti Classico communes, sits around 550m above sea level.
Its vineyards produce wines known for finesse, brightness, and longevity.
With about 30 producers, of which 70% organic, Radda exemplifies a sustainable approach to viticulture rooted in quality.
Our Location
Podere Ferrale lies on Radda’s hills, surrounded by woodlands and located between Siena and Florence.
The estate covers about 70 hectares (173 acres), including 55 of forest (135 acres), with 2.8 ha (6.9 acres) of vineyards and 500 olive trees, all part of a gradual restoration project reviving this land’s agricultural heritage.
History
The story of Podere Ferrale begins in the Middle Ages, when a watchtower was built to guard the Chianti hills.
In 1900, Antonio Soderi, Franco’s great-grandfather, bought the property to make wine and olive oil. The family farmed it for three generations until 1976, when it was sold to a Milanese family.
Forty years later, in 2016, destiny brought Ferrale back to the family.
Franco and Samanta took on what many considered too big of a challenge, and turned it into a new chapter of life, fueled by passion and perseverance.
The People
Franco and Samanta are the heart of Podere Ferrale.
After years working abroad, they decided to change their lives completely, moving to Tuscany with their two young sons.
Franco applies his engineering precision and project management experience to vineyard, cellar and estate work, while Samanta brings her expertise in service design and quality management to the fields and hospitality. Together they oversee every detail, from vine to guest experience, supported by a small and trusted team of professionals and collaborators. Their work is a journey of learning, growth, and devotion, season after season.
Philosophy
Our philosophy is simple: respect the land, value people, stay true to ourselves, and pursue excellence.
We believe wines are born in the vineyard and that quality depends on countless thoughtful decisions.
We remain true to our values, placing quality before quantity, learning by doing, and crafting wines that tell the story of our land, its seasons and our journey. Sustainability is not a slogan but a daily choice: organic farming, renewable energy, recyclable packaging, and care for forests and biodiversity.
Vision
Podere Ferrale is more than an estate: it’s a way of life.
Not a pursuit of comfort, but a desire to give meaning to daily work, honoring the land and sharing its fruits.
Each bottle and every experience reflect our dedication, authenticity, and respect for future generations.
