When architecture meets wine, there is always the danger of having a beautiful winery that is not functionnal and makes the cellar crew growl. However, you also get wineries that are thought from an esthetic point of view, meet the landscape and that are technically coherent while bringing a pleasant flow in the rythm of work, especially appreciated during harvest. Any architect would now comment, that the purpose of architecture is certainly not just esthetic anyway.
The winery Rocca di Frassinello is a recent venture between the italian Domini Castellare and the french Barons de Rothschild. Their winery was designed by the famous italian architect Renzo Piano and built from 2005 to 2007. 
Here, the reception area sits outside during harvest. The huge plateform makes it easy for trucks and fenwicks to bring the fresh fruits. The harvest is then processed by gravity, directly into the lever under.
Located in Tuscany, in the Maremma between Bolgheri and Scansano (this would ring a bell if you know Super-Tuscans) - they grow cabernet sauvignon, merlot and sangiovese. Each of Castellare and Rothschild bringing his specific know-how to make wines of great expression.
Have a deep look at the 2005 vintage if you have the opportunity. All labels worth the try.
The heart of the winery is the impressive barrel hall - huge space, imposing volume, that transforms barrels into a crowd around a stadium. When you stand right at the centre of it, you have an amazing feeling of being watched and maybe even acclaimed by this crowd. A special energy is catalysed in that point. Rare sensation, when you think of your crowd afterwards.
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