Castello di Verrazzano: A Historic Estate in the Heart of Chianti Classico
Nestled in the heart of Greve in Chianti, Castello di Verrazzano is a renowned estate with over a millennium of winemaking tradition. The castle has a rich history dating back to Etruscan and Roman times, when it served as an agricultural settlement. The estate is most famous for being the birthplace of Giovanni da Verrazzano, the explorer who discovered New York Harbor in 1524. Today, under the stewardship of the Cappellini family, the estate is a benchmark for high-quality Chianti Classico wines, rooted in both tradition and modern sustainability practice.
Terroir and Vineyards
The 52 hectares of vineyards are located between 260 and 420 meters above sea level, on the rolling hills of Chianti Classico. The soils are primarily limestone-rich with a mix of clay and stony subsoils, which allow for excellent drainage and encourage deep root development. These characteristics make the area perfect for cultivating Sangiovese, the predominant grape variety in Chianti, as well as Canaiolo, Colorino, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a selection of white varieties like Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia. The limestone-rich terroir imparts a distinctive minerality and vibrancy to the wines, contributing to their structure and aging potential.
Organic, Sustainable and traditional Winemaking
The estate’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its organic farming practices, including the use of natural compost and mechanical weeding to avoid herbicides. The vineyards are meticulously managed, with hand harvesting ensuring only the best grapes are selected. The winemaking process emphasizes tradition, with natural fermentation and aging in large Slavonian oak barrels, allowing the wines to develop complexity without overpowering their natural flavors. The resulting wines are elegant, balanced, and reflect the essence of the Chianti Classico region.
Wine Portfolio
The winery is best known for its Chianti Classico DOCG wines, including the flagship Chianti Classico Riserva and the Chianti Classico Gran Selezione, which represent the pinnacle of quality in the appellation. These wines offer a perfect balance of bright red fruit flavors, earthy undertones, and vibrant acidity, making them ideal for aging. In addition, the estate produces Super Tuscans, combining traditional Tuscan varieties with international grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, to craft complex, structured wines.
