Masciarelli’s Castello di Semivicoli
A secluded “gourmand’s” paradise among olive trees and vineyards Surrounded by lush lawns, olive groves and breathtaking vineyards, the magnificent Castello di Semivicoli sits on a hill between the mountains and the sea, with a stunning view over Abruzzo.
In the shadow of the Majella massif – the sacred mountain, home for centuries to monks and hermits – are quaint villages like Semivicoli and San Martino Sulla Marrucina, headquarters of the Masciarelli Tenute Agricole winery.
Restored to its original splendor by the Masciarelli family, the Castello di Semivicoli surprises guests with its classic beauty and authenticity. The same that enchanted Gianni Masciarelli – the winemaker that pioneered oenology in Abruzzo – who chose it as a gift for his wife Marina Cvetic and the first step in his efforts to promote wine-tourism in Abruzzo.
Gianni acquired the collapsing former “Perticone palace” in 2004, personally supervising every step in the restoration process with Marina Cvetic. Marina spearheaded the entirety of the interior design, selecting materials, furniture and unique décor pieces to create a country-chic residence ideal for lovers of the “off the beaten track” beauty. Dating back to the XVII century, the palace was built by the Baron Perticone and today is a residence that keeps intact the authenticity of past places and times, allowing its visitors to rediscover peace and harmony.
Memories and signs of the past resurface here and there in the materials used for the restoration, which are intertwined with elements of contemporary design. Among the most fascinating spots are the porch, the old mill stone and the old cellar with giant barrels (both dating back to the nineteenth century) and the completely underground ice house. Original colors, fireplaces, balconies, kitchens and pantries create an ideal environment for reading and meditation. Lounges designed for meetings and events are also available.
The extraordinary tasting room is the pillar of Masciarelli hospitality, where guests can taste house products that are representative of the land – wines, oils and grappa – combined with traditional and gourmet local food specialties.
From an outdoor breakfast to a picnic of local produce in the vineyards, to “tailored” gourmet dinners by esteemed traditional and new age chefs, Masciarelli’s commitment to spectacular food is characterized by an unmatched attention to detail, with a “farm to table” mindset.
The design of the kitchen furniture merges traditional elements harmoniously with contemporary solutions, such as Driade chairs and Philip Stark restroom furnishings, among others.
Rooms evoke the ancient lightness of a contemporary architectural vision, with 11 different suites, many of which offer views of olive groves and vineyards. The Superior Suite is updated from the old granary, and boasts an outstanding 18 windows that open onto a breathtaking 360-degree view, from the Majella to the sea.
Olive groves and the Trebbiano Castello di Semivicoli vineyard surround the pool, providing boundless beautiful views. Guests can enjoy light snacks, lunches, drinks or a glass of Masciarelli wine by the pool or at the cocktail bar, which stays open well after sunset.
Untouched stretches of dense forest, rolling hills that reach the sea and the rugged valleys surround the property, which represent the contrasts that have created the outstanding Masciarelli products.
Two varieties of artisanal Extra Virgin Olive Oil, labeled Marina Cvetic (Dritta and Leccino) and a blend labeled Castello di Semivicoli – represent absolute respect for the territory. Five different types of wine of bring to life the unique charm, richness and diversity of the Abruzzo terroir.
Guests of the castle will enjoy the best of Masciarelli wine production with wines like Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Gianni Masciarelli, a testimonial to the land and a timeless lifestyle, and the Villa Gemma Rosso, acknowledged by international experts as one of the best red wines of Italy. Marina Cvetic
and the Castello di Semivicoli wines also deserve a special mention, as wines that are made to accompany the traveler, with their extraordinary personality, and the discovery of a slow paced, authentic life in Abruzzo.
Castello di Semivicoli
Via San Nicola 24
66010 Semivicoli, Casacanditella (Ch)
Tel / Fax +39 0871 890045
info@castellodisemivicoli.it