Historia
The family farm was settled in 1730 by Bartolomeo Bocelli. From the beginning, the Bocelli family has been a people of the land, cultivating grains, animals, honey, olive oil, and of course, wine. In the 1930’s, Alcide Bocelli, the grandfather of Alberto and Andrea Bocelli, became increasingly serious about expanding the vineyards and modernizing the operation. This work was continued by his son, Alessandro, and Alessandro’s wife Edi; and today by Alberto and Andrea Bocelli. The estate is in Lajatico, Tuscany, which is located in the province of Pisa.
When grandfather Alcide Bocelli (pronounced “al-CHEE-day”) was running the family farm in the 1930’s, he made the wine, grew the wheat, and branded the cattle with his initials, “AB.” When his son was born, the practical and humorous pappa decided to name his boy Alessandro Bocelli, in part so he wouldn’t have to change the “AB” brand on all his cattle.
When his sons were born, Alessandro decided to name his boys Andrea and Alberto, keeping the “AB” tradition alive. Both boys grew up on the farm, and learned to raise animals, grow grains, ride horses, and most importantly, make wine. Despite having his sight impaired from birth, and ultimately losing it as a young boy, Andrea threw himself into his family’s estate with a full passion. Alberto, his younger brother and closest friend, was his constant companion, and together, the two young men worked hard, played hard, and learned the ways of their farm. They helped fill their family table with farm-fresh food, classic Tuscan red wine, and yes, music. The whole family enjoys singing, laughing, and sharing meals; to be at the Bocelli family table is to celebrate life.
For nearly three centuries, the Bocelli family has made classic Italian wines on their small estate in Tuscany. To this day, Edi Bocelli, aka “Mamma”, still enjoys working in the fields, carefully hand-tying vines. Cinzia and Alberto Bocelli manage the azienda, and with the help of Andrea Bocelli, welcome visitors from around the world to taste their exceptional wines – it is a true family affair.
And if there is one thing that Andrea, Alberto, and their family love to do, it is to share their special Italian culture with friends around the world. Whether it is the music of “La Boheme,” or the wine of la dolce vita, they understand the art of living well.