Castiglion del Bosco (Castle in the Woods), a renowned Tuscany wine estate that has remained virtually unchanged since the 15th century, is undergoing a renaissance as a world-class resort and private members-only club featuring a Tom Weiskopf-designed golf course.
Set in the hills overlooking the historic village and valleys of Montalcino, Castiglion del Bosco is located one hour south of Florence. The property stands as one of Tuscany's largest estates, built on the agricultural compound that dates back to the Middle Ages and surrounds the ruins of the original castle fortress.
The area produces much of Italy's celebrated Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino wines, along with olive oil and Grappa. Also included in the resort's development is a spa specializing in wine-related therapies and treatments, a state-of-the-art culinary academy, a sommelier school and wine museum, and an equestrian facility.
Within the center of the estate's Borgo (village), the 50-room main villa will undergo an extensive renovation to house the distinctive club and community operations. Additionally, 21 classic Tuscan villas, scattered throughout the grounds, will be renovated to reflect the essence of "La Vita Toscana" (the Tuscan life) and will eventually serve as private residences for club members.
The 4,500 acres of forests, lakes and pastures that surround the estate comprise a protected nature preserve that will be available as an outdoor amenity for members, offering hiking and biking trails, horseback riding and other recreational pursuits.
Troon Golf of Scottsdale, Ariz., is providing construction and management services, which include the pre-development planning and design of the Castiglion del Bosco Golf Club and long-term management of the project. Weiskopf will design the 18-hole signature golf course, as well as the 9-hole par-3 course, golf academy and practice facility.
As part of Brunello Partners UK Limited (TBP), Castiglion del Bosco is a joint venture between Massimo Ferragamo and JC Partners International, LLC. Based in Newport Beach, Calif., JC Partners International is a high-end real estate investment and development company, headed by John A. Janes and Corky Severson, with projects in the United States and Europe.
Salvatore Ferragamo is one of the world's most famous family business names, known for its designer fashion lines of shoes, handbags, silks and perfumes.
Copyright 2005 PGA.com. All rights reserved.