Spanning
the Past and Future
of Tuscan Winemaking
Between Florence and Siena, in the Greve
district of Tuscany’s Chianti Classico zone,
lies Castello di Verrazzano. A founding member
of the Consorzio del Chianti Classico, Verrazzano
has made wine since the earliest times, occupying
the site of former Etruscan and Roman settlements.
The property was acquired in 1958 by the Cappellini
family, who have carefully replanted and restored
the estate to its current splendor.
Verrazzano’s sterling reputation among
wine lovers in Italy and abroad is due to the
spirit and industry of its present owners, Luigi
and Silvia Cappellini, who with their two young
daughters call Verrazzano home. Warm and generous
hosts, the Cappellinis welcome a constant stream
of visitors at the estate. The manor house, portions
of which date back to the 7th century, has been
beautifully restored. Abandoned farmhouses have
been converted into attractive guest accommodations.
Breeding of a once dwindling population of wild
boar -- source for Verrazzano’s production
of cured meats and sausages -- has been encouraged
in the surrounding forest. Extra virgin olive
oil and specialty vinegars are also made at the
estate and available at the onsite shop, along
with products such as honey, wine accessories
and – of course – the Verrazzano wines.
(A second shop is located on SS 222, just at the
bottom of Verrazzano Hill.) Read more about Verrazzano
here.
A visit to the property includes a guided tour
of the gardens and historical wine cellars, followed
by a tasting of selected wines. Please allow at
least 1 ½ hours for the tour. Special gastronomic
programs can be arranged, ranging from a simple
tasting to a full lunch or dinner. Verrazzano’s
“Executive Tour” is offered to groups
of up to 8 people and provides transportation
to and from Florence, in addition to a full tour,
meal and tasting at the property. Advance booking
is required. The estate is well-equipped to hold
private events and meetings for groups of up to
250 people.
Verrazzano wines and other produce are all on
the menu at Cantinetta Verrazzano, a family-owned
bakery, delicatessen and café in the heart
of Florence, with a tradition extending back almost
300 years. Located at Via dei Tavolini 18-20r,
off Via dei Calzaiuoli, near the Duomo. Tel. 055-268-590.
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General Information at a Glance
- Appointment required
- Fees apply, please inquire
- Guided tours available
- Group tours available by appointment (fee
may apply)
- English-speaking staff
- Parking available
- Buses accommodated
- Private events hosted
- Wheelchair accessible
- Dining facilities on-site
- Retail shop on-site
Nearest
cities
Florence
Approximately a 1 hour drive
Sienna
Approximately a 1 ½ hour drive
Driving Directions
From Florence: Take route SS 222 to Greve in Chianti,
about 3 km before the town of Greve. At the village
sign GRETI, turn right and drive up towards the
castle (Castello di Verrazzano).
From Sienna: Take route SS 222 north, past Castellina
in Chianti and Greve. About 3 km after the town
of Greve, you will see (on your left) our wine
shop with a large green painting of the castle.
Turn left and drive up to the castle.
For a Map
Click here
for a map.
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