The Winery
Fattoria Cerraia is an upcoming biodynamic boutique winery in the heart of the Chianti Classico area in Tuscany, close to the village of Castellina in Chianti in the province of Siena. Castellina is together with Radda and Gaiole one of three historic villages of Chianti with several thousand years wine production history that goes back to Etruscan times. We obtained European organic certification from 2022 after years of organic practices in our vineyard, then demeter certification in 2025.
The Vineyard
Aplu is a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot coming from our magical high altitude vineyards that lie just under the village of Castellina in Chianti at 550 meters altitude. The vineyards have a rich “Galestro” (Limestone) and “Arenaria” (Sandstone) profile with miscellaneous texture. It has a south-east exposure that guarantees sun in the morning without the hot afternoon sun producing healthy grapes and elegant wines. Biodynamic plantation and vinefication are practised from year of 2022,
The Vintage
2022 was one of the warmest vintages in recent years. The heat began in late spring and stayed steady through summer, allowing vines to adapt. Spring rains provided enough water for the summer drought, ensuring healthy grape development. Warm days and cool nights helped sangiovese phenolics mature evenly. Mid-August rains moderated temperatures and replenished water reserves, leading to optimal ripeness. Through intensive organic agricultural methods and careful fermentation, we achieved exceptional results with perfectly ripe grapes harvested mid September.
The Vinification
After a careful first selection in the vineyard we did a second selection of the single berries on the selection table after destemming the single bunches. The fermentation and maceration in stainless steal tanks with temperature control lasted 14 days. The wine was aged afterwards for 12 month in French oak barrels.
The name Aplu stands for the Etruscan version of the ancient god Apollo, representing the sun and aris. Aplu is a powerful wine kissed by the Tuscan sun that blends artistically Sangiovese and Merlot.
Profile
Intense, dark red color, powerful cherry and blackberry aromas with spicy notes. Medium bodied with soft and round tannins on the palate and with an intense juicy finish. Excellently suited to Tuscan first courses and meat dishes. Best served at approx. 18 C (61° F)