Italy - Barone Ricasoli

The House of Ricasoli is regarded as the world's oldest winery, having produced wines since 1141. The Ricasoli family is also credited for developing the Sangiovese-based blend that became the basis for Chianti Classico. In 1993, Francesco Ricasoli, the 32nd Baron, regained family control of the winery after more than two decades of corporate ownership. He immediately set about improving quality at the family's historic estate, Castello di Brolio. Barone Ricasoli owns the largest single estate in the Chianti Classico region.