Castello di Verrazzano is in the heart of the Chianti Classico region. Its history dates to the 7th century, when the Verrazzano family first acquired the property. Of interest is the fact that the famous bridge and waterway in New York city is named for Giovanni Verrazzano, a family member who was a navigator employed in the early 16th century by the French king. Giovanni Verrazzano charted much of the east coastline of what is now the United States. In the mid-20th century the Cappellini family acquired the estate, and Luigi Giovanni Cappellini is today in charge along with other members of his family. The large estate has 125 acres of vineyards, along with agritourism facilities and olive orchards. The Castello produces Chianti and white wines.