By Rosina Fracassini
There are places that don’t need to be reinvented—just listened to. Fattoria Santo Stefano is one of them. It wasn’t born from a restoration project or nostalgic revival; it has existed for centuries, moving through time with natural grace and silently telling the story of what it means to live in harmony with the land.
The first records of the settlement date back to the Early Middle Ages, when the small village at the foot of the mountain was crossed by one of the Roman roads leading to Fiesole. That same route would later become part of the Via Francigena.
The name Collegalle has roots in the Latin word Callis—meaning “path”—and tells of ancient crossings, military strategies, and hidden trails through the hills.
Even nature seems to support the agricultural vocation of this place: wild hornbeam trees, which grow abundantly along the gullies, have encouraged the growth of vines for centuries—so much so that the area once bore the ancient name Carpignalle.
The entire estate is nestled among the eastern foothills of the mountain range separating Chianti from the Arno Valley. Monte Collegalle, standing at 730 meters above sea level, is the first ridge in a chain that shelters the agricultural slope from the harsher climate of the east.
This topographical setting creates a perfect balance between sun exposure and natural ventilation, resulting in a microclimate ideal for viticulture: grapes ripen gradually, developing structure, well-defined tannins, and an aromatic richness that can be fully appreciated in the glass.
It’s a land that offers both fertility and protection, making the Fattoria a reference point for those seeking respectful, high-quality winegrowing.
Since the 19th century, the estate has played a central role in the production of wine and olive oil, iconic staples of Tuscan rural life. The large complex was once home to sharecropping families who worked the land in exchange for a portion of the harvest.
At the heart of rural life stood the 19th-century cellar, a true example of pre-industrial ingenuity—serving as a storage space for wine, oil, oats, barley, and other foods, using clever preservation methods in an era long before refrigeration.
But it was in the 20th century that Fattoria Santo Stefano entered a new phase of transformation under the enlightened leadership of Marchesa Elisabetta “Elsa” Sallier de la Tour. A woman of great culture and passion, she introduced modern winemaking techniques and updated vine training systems.
She was also responsible for the consecration of the private chapel of Santo Stefano, adding to the spiritual and architectural significance of the estate.
In 1961, the estate was purchased by the Bendinelli family, marking the beginning of yet another chapter in the Fattoria’s story.
Mauro Bendinelli, a lawyer with rural roots and entrepreneurial vision, acquired the entire property “a cancello chiuso” (sight unseen), unaware that the sharecroppers—due to the recent agrarian reform—were preparing to leave the land in exchange for compensation.
It was a difficult beginning, but one filled with determination.
The Bendinelli family moved to the estate: returning to the land was not just an economic decision, but a way of life.
With the support of his wife Marisa Mori Bendinelli and the expertise of oenologist Mario Cortevesio, the Fattoria experienced a true revival.
The vineyards were cultivated with artisanal care, upholding tradition while focusing closely on quality. The wines—authentic, expressive, and deeply rooted in their terroir—soon gained recognition for their elegance and typicity.
In recent years, a new generation has taken the helm, continuing the family’s vision.
Today, management is shared between siblings Agostino and Elena, each with complementary roles: one oversees agronomy and production, while the other handles hospitality and guest experiences.
The estate has thus become a destination for those who wish to experience the authenticity of the Tuscan countryside—through tastings, stays, and immersive journeys into the world of wine.
Today, Fattoria Santo Stefano is a family-run farm that has evolved without ever losing its identity. The vineyards and olive groves are cultivated with respect for natural rhythms, using sustainable farming practices and minimal intervention—aimed at enhancing what the land naturally offers.
Native grape varieties—Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Colorino, Malvasia—coexist harmoniously with international ones such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, introduced in past centuries but now fully integrated into the local wine landscape.
The cellar is the beating heart of production: winemaking is carried out with artisan care and modern technical insight, allowing each vintage to express its full potential. The wines—from Chianti Classico DOCG to IGT labels—reflect a clear identity: they are clean, balanced, and combine structure with drinkability, fruity and longevity. The production is completed by a fresh, high-quality extra virgin olive oil, a grappa, and other small-batch specialty products.
But the Fattoria is more than just a place of production—it’s also a home open to those who want to experience its atmosphere. The guest apartments, located throughout the rural hamlet, offer a relaxed, immersive stay. Days pass between walks through the vineyards, relaxing by the pool, guided tastings, and lunches beneath the trees.
All of this in a setting that preserves the authentic spirit of Tuscany, where every experience is crafted with simplicity and care.
The philosophy guiding the Fattoria today is clear: preserve memory while always looking forward. It’s this vision that unites different generations of the Bendinelli family, who have carried this project forward for more than sixty years with consistency and passion. A virtuous example of family farming, one that has managed to evolve while staying true to its land.
Experiences to Enjoy
Tastings with a View
A sensory journey from vineyard to glass: enjoy a curated selection of the Fattoria’s most representative wines, paired with small bites and stories that reveal the soul of each label. A perfect moment to discover the character of Chianti Classico in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Walk Among the Vines & Country Picnic
Leave the rush behind and rediscover the joy of slowing down: a peaceful stroll through the vineyards, deep breaths of nature, and a picnic basket filled with wine and local products to enjoy under the Tuscan sky.
An experience for those seeking authenticity, silence, and simple beauty.
Cellar Tour & Signature Tastings
A journey into the heart of the cellar where the Fattoria’s wines are born—among barrels, aromas, and passionate stories. The visit ends with a guided tasting of wines, olive oil, and local flavours, offering a direct connection to the farm’s production philosophy.
Tuscan Cooking Class
Put on an apron and dive into an authentic gastronomic experience. Alongside the hosts, you’ll learn to prepare traditional Chianti and Florentine recipes in a warm and friendly environment. The experience ends at the table, enjoying the freshly made dishes paired with the Fattoria’s own wines.
Info: Via Collegalle, 3 a Greve in Chianti (Fi) / Tel. 055 8572298 / info@fattoriasantostefano.it / www.fattoriasantostefano.it