Capezzana

Owned by the Contini Bonacossi family since 1926, the Capezzana estate and Carmignano DOC are virtually synonymous – though the former predates the latter by over 1100 years. After bringing back cuttings from Château Lafite, Ugo Contini Bonacossi was instrumental in establishing the denomination in 1975 with mandatory inclusion of Cabernet (Sauvignon and/or Franc).

His daughter Bernadetta has been winemaker since 1998, and her 36-year-old son Hector is poised to take over when she retires. There is continual evolution here. The Barco Reale now sees shorter macerations and partial refinement in stainless steel for a fresher, more immediately drinkable wine than past versions. As for the Carmignano, it has transitioned away from barriques to ageing in a combination of tonneaux and larger oak casks. The estate boasts a library going back 100 years of this incredibly ageworthy archetype.

For Benedetta, Vin Santo is like a second child, and Capezzana’s is among the most exemplary of its category. Also not to be missed is the IGT Toscano Bianco - an oak and acacia aged Trebbiano Rosa - and the estate’s olive oil.