The story of Tenuta di Artimino unfolds on a terrain rich in antiquity. An Etruscan settlement that blossomed through the medieval ages and became part of the Medici patrimony. Its roots in winemaking date back centuries. In 1596, Grand Duke Ferdinando l de’ Medici, captivated by the vistas during a hunt on the hills of Montalbano, commissioned architect Bernardo Buontalenti to build a villa on the site. Thus, Villa Medicea “La Ferdinanda”, known as the “Villa of the Hundred Chimneys”, was completed around 1600. The Villa exemplifies refined mannerist architecture and remains a crown jewel of the Medici Villa network. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, formally recognized in 2013 for its cultural significance.
From Medici to Olmo family
After the Medici era, the Villa and estate passed through various noble families. In the late 20th century, Giuseppe Olmo, a celebrated cyclist who set the world hour record in 1935 and won Olympic gold in 1932, acquired the estate. Under his visionary, industrialist approach, the property was rejuvenated and given a new life. Today, the management rests with his grandchildren, Annabelle Pascale and Francesco Spotorno Olmo, who champion a modernisation of the estate while honouring its heritage. They have partnered with Meliá Collection Hotels, integrating Tenuta di Artimino into the prestigious Meliá Collection portfolio.
Carmignano DOCG
The Carmignano zone has been producing wine since Etruscan and Roman times. In 1716, Grand Duke Cosimo III de’ Medici issued one of history’s earliest wine edicts, legally safeguarding Carmignano as a premium region. A defining feature of the appellation is its historic blending of Sangiovese with Cabernet Sauvignon (and Cabernet Franc) long before the Super Tuscan era. This tradition was officially recognized with DOC status in 1975, later elevated to DOCG in 1990. Current regulations require at least 50% Sangiovese, 10-20% Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Franc, up to 20% Canaiolo, and smaller amounts of Mammolo, Colorino, Trebbiano and Malvasia. Riserva bottlings must be aged for a minimum of three years. The wines are known for their elegance, with structured tannins, deep color and a distinctive touch of chocolate and spice, reflecting the unique soils of the Montalbano hills.
Artimino’s Terroir: Between Hills & Heritage
The estate spans more than 730 hectares, with about 80 hectares under vine, as well as olive groves and woodlands. Positioned between Carmignano and Chianti Montalbano, the soils range from clay limestone to sandy loam and altitudes between 50-200 metres encourage expressive, balanced fruit. The philosophy is rooted in sustainability. Minimal chemical intervention, careful agronomy and respect for biodiversity. Each vine sinks its roots deep into a terroir that has nurtured viticulture for centuries.
Winery & Wines: Varieties & Signature Labels
Tenuta di Artimino produces Carmignano DOCG and Chianti DOCG, along with other DOC and IGT wines. The main grape varieties are Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Canaiolo, Trebbiano and Malvasia.
- Grumarello Carmignano DOCG: A flagship label, structured and refined, often blending Sangiovese with Cabernet Franc.
- Poggilarca Carmignano DOCG: Elegant and balanced, a modern interpretation of the classic Carmignano style.
- Centocamini Rosso IGT Toscana: A versatile Tuscan red for everyday drinking.
- Artumes Bianco Toscana IGT: A crisp white expression of the territory.
- Barco Reale DOC: A youthful, fruit forwarding Carmignano blend.
- Vin Santo & Occhio di Pernice: Traditional sweet crafted with meticulous care.
Hospitality: The Estate & Experiences
At the heart of the estate stands “Villa Medicea La Ferdinanda”, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “Villa of Hundred Chimneys”. The Villa is a premier venue for weddings, conferences, luxury dining and events surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
The Estate offers a Variety of Luxury Accommodations:
- Hotel Paggeria Medicea: A four star boutique hotel with refined Tuscan style rooms, terracotta floors and warm décor.
- Borgo di Artimino Apartments: Restored medieval village apartments for immersive Tuscan living.
- Le Fagianale Tuscan Country Houses: Secluded one and two bedroom houses overlooking the hills.
Together, these properties form the Hotel di Artimino – A Meliá Collection Hotel, with panoramic views of vineyards and olive groves. Facilities include two swimming pools, a modern spa with Vinotherapy and serene gardens. Room categories range from Style rooms and Singular rooms, to Extra Singular rooms, Borgo Lodge Suites, Ferdinando Suites and Le Fagianaie Lodges. Each space is designed to combine contemporary comfort with rustic Tuscan character.
Culinary Excellence: Food and Wine at the Estate
Dining is centred on the “Biagio Pignatta” restaurant, which offers refined Tuscan cuisine prepared with estate grown produce and paired with Artimino wines.
The “Redi Cellar”, located within the historic grounds, is a striking space for tastings and private dining. You can also enjoy the pool bar for casual refreshments with sweeping vineyards views. The culinary team curates unique experiences, from guided tastings and wine pairing dinners to truffle hunts, picnics in the vineyards and cooking classes.
People Behind the Estate
Tenuta di Artimino’s success rests on its dedicated team.
- The Olmo family provides the strategic vision.
- Winemaking: Led by consulting oenologist Riccardo Cotarella, agronomist Alessandro Matteoli and Cellar master Stefano Oliarca, supported by oenologist Filippo Paoletti.
- Hospitality and Cuisine: The chefs, sommeliers and Meliá trained staff ensures guests receive world class service.
Together, they embody the estate’s mission of combining history, culture and terroir with contemporary luxury.
Carmignano as Luxury Destination
Located between Florence and Prato, Carmignano is one of Tuscany’s most discreet treasures. Unlike Chianti or Brunello, it remains intimate, authentic and deeply tied to its Medici Heritage. The rolling Montalbano hills offer olive groves, forests and vineyards while the village of Artimino exudes with its cobbled streets and artisan culture. This makes Carmignano not just a Wine destination but also a luxury travel haven where history, art and nature converge.
Tenuta di Artimino
Tenuta di Artimino is far more than a winery or a hotel. It is a living tapestry of Tuscany’s soul. From its Etruscan roots and Medici grandeur, to its pioneering role in Carmignano DOCG and its modern luxury hospitality, the estate captures the harmony of past and present.
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