CASTELLO DI VERRAZZANO
Traveling between Past and Present in Chiantishire
Verrazzano Castle – one of the most charming historic buildings in Tuscany – is located between Florence
and Siena, in the heart of Chiantishire, on the hills of Greve in Chianti.
The renowned navigator Giovanni da Verrazzano was born in this 7th century castle, which sits on a hill top
about 20 kilometers from Florence.
Giovanni da Verrazzano was the explorer who first discovered New York Bay and drew up the first map of
the East Coast of the United States of America.
The well known Verrazzano Narrows Bridge in New York was named after him.
“Giovanni da Verrazzano was an inspiring man, who successfully discovered the New World and fully
understood its cultural wealth and complexity. If the meeting of different worlds had been led by people
with the sensitivity of Giovanni da Verrazzano, we would not have globalization, but rather a valuable
exchange between different identities…” (quotation of Mr. Luigi Cappellini)
In 1920s, the castle was acquired by Marquis Ridolfi, who is well known in Florence’s more recent history as
the founder of Fiorentina, Florence’s Football Club, as well as the mastermind of Maggio Musicale Festival.
In 1958, the castle was bought by the Cappellini Family,who brought it back to its former glory, thanks to
restoration works funded by Cavalier Luigi Cappellini.
Over the years the Cappellini Family has also taken care of the 52 hectars of vineyards, stretching from the
walls of the castle on the hill top, down to the River Greve valley.
Castello di Verrazzano has been a member of Consorzio del Chianti Classico, since the consortium’s
foundation. Here, wine production records date back to 1170. High quality standards in wine production –
led by Luigi Cappellini – are ensured by a certified organic production chain. In order to ensure maximum
flavour and taste concentration, grape thinning-out practices are regularly applied.
This ancient wine production tradition is now entering international markets, with great full bodied red
wines, boasting deep colours, intense flavours, and elegant and harmonious tastes.
The magnificence and beauty of Castello di Verrazzano have remained unchanged over the decades. The
owner’s Mansion with its ancient tower built in late Romanesque style stands surrounded by gardens and
fountains at the centre of the property, from where a breathtaking view can be enjoyed of the
neighbouring Tuscan countryside.
In addition to its famous and historic wines, Castello di Verrazzano is also an important farm, producing a
wide range of different produce, including olive oil, vinegar, honey, as well as all the many other products
generally produced in a Tuscan farm. Further, fire wood is self-produced for full energy supply to the whole
compound.
The Cappellini Family has for many years now promoted sustainable development of all wine growing
activities, with the highest focus on and respect for the environment.
“…harvesting time in Verrazzano is not only a key economic phase, but also an opportunity to celebrate our
vineyards: we all join together in celebration, to appreciate and praise them. It is a powerful emotion which
is renewed year after year …” (quoted from Luigi Cappellini)
The winery is also well known and appreciated for its Wine Tours, and for having promoted first class wine
tourism featuring guided visits to the cellars, as well as tours of the late-Renaissance gardens surrounding
the Villa. At the end of these tours, wine tasting is offered in the farm’s restaurant exclusively serving local
produce. The winery also has a remarkable collection of vintage wines.
The Castle is also home to Giovanni da Verrazzano Foundation, which regularly organizes conferences to
celebrate and remember the renowned explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano.