There are quite a few "old families" that still have a family estate handed down generation in generation and are at the front of promoting modern Tuscan winemaking. Marchesi Antinori of the Antinori brands, Barone Ricasoli of Castello di Brolio, Marchesi Mazzei at Castello di Fonterutoli, Marchesi Frescobaldi of the Frescobaldi brands, Principi Corsini of Villa Le Corti, Conti Capponi of Villa Calcinaia, just to cite some.
When you look at their names, you'll see what commons them is the title that they still bear after all these centuries. The title of prince, baron, count or marquise is still handed down to the firstborn male.
In the olden days, the title implied status, privileges and obligations. In modern times, being born into a family legacy is more of historical pride and it may have its perks, but can still come with quite a few responsibilities.
700 years ago the wine industry wasn't considered one of the most important trades, hence it was a minor guild in Florence (formed in 1288) - but now, centuries later it has certainly taken revenge and become one of Tuscany's superpowers!
Watch Sebastiano Capponi's presentation from the Capponi Palace in Florence, and then from the countryside estate, Villa Calcinaia Winery.
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