The spirit and industry of Verrazzano’s owners, Luigi & Silvia Cappellini, have played a major role in the burgeoning reputation of this ancient estate in the Greve district of Tuscany’s Chianti Classico zone. 105 acres of vineyard are planted in Verrazzano’s limestone-rich soil. Though present in southern areas of Chianti Classico, limestone is unique to Verrazzano in the cooler, northern sector, accounting for the singular blend of muscularity and finesse evident in Verrazzano wines. In outstanding vintages, Verrazzano produces a Riserva Chianti Classico with grapes from the finest portions of the estate.
Production Area
The Greve district in the northern portion of the Chianti Classico DOC, south of Florence in Tuscany
Grape Varieties
Estate-grown Sangiovese (95%) and Canaiolo (5%)
Vinification
105 acres of vine planted at altitudes ranging from 1,150 to 1,480 feet in Verrazzano’s limestone-rich soil. Though present in warmer, southern areas of Chianti Classico, limestone is unique to Verrazzano in the cooler, northern portion of the district. The soil here is extremely lean and stony (43% lime, 29% clay, 28% sand). Fertilization is entirely organic.
Grapes from selected portions of the Verrazzano vineyards are harvested by hand in October and undergo a 12-15 day maceration period. The wine is aged 24 months in Slavonian oak barrels and bottle-aged three to six months prior to release.
Color
Deep, dark purple in youth, tending gradually to garnet over time
Bouquet
Richly perfumed. Aroma of violets and cherry
Taste
Smooth and elegant with an opulent flavor reminiscent of ripe plums, sour cherries and other red berry fruit. With its extended aging capacity, it develops in complexity and finesse
Alcohol
13.5%