Castello di Spaltenna is a converted medieval castle from before the 12th Century. Spaltenna is an ancient feudal hamlet consisting of the church, Santa Maria a Spaltenna, with its bell tower dated from the year 1000, the adjacent castle and a small group of houses. The castle became a monastery than a convent before becoming the resort it is today.

Gaiole, in the Chianti Classico region, boasts the largest winery in the Chianti Classico area, Brolio Castle, where Baron Bettino Ricasoli invented the Chianti formula in 1872. Gaiole is also known for its professional bicycle race held every year in March, Strade Bianche.

The view of the town of Gaiole as we walk down the hill from Castello di Spaltenna.

Tania Azzurrini has worked in the field of ceramics her entire career. After 20 years of working for a large manufacturer, managing a team, she left the hectic pace to open her own shop in her hometown of Gaiole. “I start work at 6 a.m. and work late till maybe 6 or 7 but it is not hard because I am happy.” Nicoletta Penco creates all the ceramics for Castello di Spaltenna.