About Us

The origins of Castello Vicchiomaggio, originally known as Vicchio dei Longobardi, date back to around 1100, as evidenced by ancient parchments still preserved to this day. Situated on top of a hill overlooking the Val di Greve, just 18 km from Florence and 38 km from Siena, the castle has played a fundamental strategic role throughout the centuries.

Built in solid stone, with a majestic battlement tower dating back to 1100, Castello Vicchiomaggio still preserves the ancient castle dwellings and defensive walls. Thanks to meticulous restorations, it is now a perfectly preserved national monument.

During the Middle Ages, Castello Vicchiomaggio played a crucial role in the defense of Florence during conflicts with Siena, demonstrating the strategic importance of its location.

Subsequently transformed into a sumptuous Renaissance villa, the castle reached its peak. During this period, the original name Vicchio was enriched with the word "Maggio" in memory of the majestic celebrations of Calendimaggio.

Throughout its long and illustrious history, Castello Vicchiomaggio has hosted numerous prominent figures, including Leonardo da Vinci and Francesco Redi. Da Vinci, who stayed here during the creation of his masterpiece, the Mona Lisa, made a majestic drawing that is still present among his personal manuscripts. Redi, an academic of the Accademia della Crusca, composed the verses of his famous work "Il Bacco in Toscana" here in 1865.

1921 - After many years of adventure working in restaurants in Turin, Paris and London, Federico Secondo Matta establishes his wine import business, F.S. Matta Ltd, in London in 1921. Initially only importing French wines with direct links to Ch. Margaux and La Mission Haut Brion. In the 1950s F.S. Matta starts importing Italian wines, being the first major business to do so, success comes quickly. By early 1960 F.S. Matta Ltd is the the largest and most dynamic importer of Italian wines and spirits in the UK , representing Campari, Gancia, San Pellegrino water, Bertolli oil, Bolla, Santa Margherita and many more.

1964 – Federico Secondo Matta purchased Castello Vicchiomaggio.

1970 - After attending the school of oenology and viticulture in Alba for three years, John Matta, Federico's son, begins his career at Castello Vicchiomaggio. As a profound connoisseur of the importance of soil characteristics, low yields and traditional sustainable agriculture, John initiates an extremely prudent, but also very innovative, replanting programme for the time;

2010 - John and Paola’s two eldest daughters, Federica and Delfina, join the company, working alongside their mother developing the hospitality side of the business.

2013 - Sebastian, John and Paola's youngest son, joins the company, focusing his attention on the production side, between vineyard and cellar and maintaining contacts with overseas clients.

2018 – Victoria joins the family business. With a degree from Bocconi University and 6 years' experience with the auditing firm Ernst & Young, Victoria focuses her attention on the development of sales and company management.