Cold winter conditions for old vine Sangiovese in Radda, Chianti, ITaly
Image: Arillo in Tierrabianca’s Vigna Terrabianca vineyard (52 yrs) in Chianti Classico
Member Arillo in Terrabianca owns a 12-hectare estate known as Tenuta Terrabianca in Radda, one of the highest altitude sub-zones of Chianti Classico, characterised by its white-tinged soils (terra bianca). Vigna Terrabianca is its oldest parcel, planted at 400m fifty-two years ago with the Tobago 19 (T-19) Sangiovese clone on a cordon system.
CEO Alberto Fusi explains how winter in this area of the Tuscan hills has been particularly cold this year, contrasting with much milder conditions in 2025:
“The 2026 season in Radda has opened under a sharp, crystalline cold that keeps the Terrabianca vines in a state of deep, disciplined stillness. January’s temperatures hovered between roughly 1 and 4 °C, with only light, infrequent rainfall. This kind of winter is more than just quiet: it is protective. The persistent cold acts as a natural guardian, limiting insect pressure before spring arrives and giving the old vineyard—rooted in decades of memory—the chance to rest cleanly, without disturbance. Terrabianca’s ancient vines absorb this silence like a promise; their deep roots hold steady, gathering strength for the season ahead”.
Image: Arillo in Terrabianca’s old vine Sangiovese, just prior to pruning
Fusi goes on to explain how 2026 contrasts with last year's weather:
"On the other hand, 2025 unfolded with calm balance. A mild winter gave way to a cool spring that allowed flowering to proceed slowly and steadily. Rainfall was well spaced and generous enough to build water reserves without ever hampering vineyard work. This set the stage for a warm June that accelerated growth, yet without inducing stress, thanks to the moisture stored in the soil. Through the summer, marked day–night temperature swings carried the vines toward a beautifully even ripening phase, fostering excellent fruit health and composure across Tuscany’s vineyards. For Terrabianca’s old vines, 2025 felt like a long, deep breath—harmonious, confident, and quietly powerful.”
Image: The winery’s 52-year old Terrabianca vineyard is planted with the T-19 Sangiovese clone and cordon-trained.