Places to see in Chianti

The Ricasoli castle, where the recipe that became Chianti Classico was written down in the nineteenth century, and still a working estate. Gardens, a chapel, a long view over the vineyards, and tastings on site. The most substantial single stop in Chianti and the one to build a driving day around.

An estate above Greve with formal Italian gardens behind the house and vines below them, producing wine since the fourteenth century. Visits are by arrangement rather than drop-in, which keeps it calm. Worth calling ahead for.

A fortified estate above Greve with vineyards falling away on three sides — one of the cluster of castle wineries on the northern stretch of the Chiantigiana that take visitors. Closer to Florence than Brolio, which makes it the practical choice on a day trip rather than a stay.

A Romanesque country church just south of Panzano, with a portico, a quiet churchyard and cypresses. Free, usually empty, and five minutes off the main road. The kind of stop that makes a driving day feel like Tuscany rather than a series of tasting rooms.