The Frescobaldi family has been producing wine in Tuscany for more than 700 years, with historical records of their winemaking activities dating back to 1308. One of Italy’s most influential wine dynasties, Frescobaldi has played a significant role in shaping the reputation of Tuscan fine wine through estates across the region, including CastelGiocondo in Montalcino, Castello Nipozzano in Chianti Rufina and Tenuta Perano in Chianti Classico.

Castello Pomino, located in the high hills of Rufina east of Florence, is one of Frescobaldi’s historic estates. The property has a unique alpine-influenced climate, with vineyards surrounded by forests of fir and sequoia trees. Chardonnay was planted at Pomino as early as 1855, an unusually early introduction for Tuscany, and the estate became a pioneer in producing elegant international white varieties in the region. The Benefizio Riserva was first created in 1973 from the high-altitude Chardonnay vineyard of the same name, becoming one of Italy’s benchmark examples of premium oak-aged Chardonnay.

The 2022 Frescobaldi Castello Pomino Benefizio Riserva Pomino Bianco DOC is produced from 100% Chardonnay grown in the Benefizio vineyard at approximately 700 metres above sea level. The vineyard’s altitude, sandy soils and cooler mountain climate allow the grapes to retain freshness and acidity while achieving full aromatic maturity. Grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed before fermentation in French oak barriques, using approximately 50% new oak and 50% second-use barrels. The wine undergoes partial malolactic fermentation and ageing on lees with bâtonnage, followed by bottle refinement before release.

The 2022 vintage displays the classic Benefizio profile: richness balanced by mountain freshness. The wine offers aromas of ripe peach, nectarine, pear, tropical fruit and white flowers, layered with notes of vanilla, sweet spice, white pepper and subtle minerality. The palate is creamy and textured, supported by vibrant acidity and a long savoury finish. Unlike warmer-climate Chardonnay styles that can become heavy, Benefizio maintains precision and elegance through the cool conditions of Pomino’s high-altitude vineyards.

" showing ripe nectarines, sliced pears and fresh floral character, with hints of savoury herbs. The palate is medium to full-bodied with a creamy texture, smooth structure and a mineral undertone that provides freshness and balance. " -- James Suckling