Vineyards and olive groves that stretch as far as the eye can see are dispersed over the rocky, clay like terrain, where man has left his mark yet maintained the beauty and harmony of this countryside made up of rolling hills and ancient farm houses. The red Sangiovese grape is the unquestioned queen of the land and is the heart of the various Chiantis and the unforgettable Brunello. It is love at first taste, and the full fruity flavor with hints of flowers and spices is sure to gladden any palate. Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a very fine white Tuscan wine often overlooked due to the popularity of the Tuscan reds. What a mistake! You will enjoy this treasure of Tuscany that goes great with fresh sea food and a variety of other dishes as well. And green? The dominating force of this area, other than Tuscan wine, is olive oil. Of such high quality it is often called “the green gold”, the dense, green oil is perfect for bruschetta, salad and soups and its spicy aroma is a joy for the palate.
Your Itinerary:
Day 1: Florentine Chianti and Super Tuscans
Your adventure into the world of wine begins up in the hills surrounding Florence where the Chianti region begins. First stop, Greve in Chianti, where you will find a characteristic local square “piazza” and a statue of the noted explorer Giovanni di Verrazzano. He discovered the bay of New York but was born just up the road from Greve at the Verrazzano castle. Here you be delighted by a lively tour of the grounds and cellars before celebrating a true Tuscan style feast, featuring products produced at the castle, accompanied by the famous Verrazzano wines. After lunch you will follow the road to Siena where you will find your hotel in the heart of town. In the evening you will have time to explore this enchanting city before a delicious dinner in a restaurant close to your hotel.
Day 2: Vernaccia di San Gimignano and Super Tuscans
This day is dedicated to the only classified D.O.C.G. white Tuscan wine, Vernaccia. As you head to San Gimignano you will have the chance to stop at Monteriggioni. This miniscule village was built around the 1200’s as a fortress for Siena to defend herself against her arch rival Florence. It is the perfect spot for a stroll and a coffee before venturing on to San Gimignano. This city of ancient towers, once a sign of wealth and power, and now an undeniable sign of beauty has been captivating travelers since the medieval times. Here you will have time for lunch and to admire the incredible views, towers, piazzas and more. In the afternoon you will be treated to a guided tasting of prestigious Tuscan wines from Vernaccia to Chianti Classico to Brunello di Montalcino. You will also discover three of the most sought after Super Tuscans and enjoy local appetizers. In the evening you will head back to Siena.
Day 3: Chianti Senese
A second day of exploring the Chianti region awaits you, but this time on the side of Siena. Castellina in Chianti will be your first stop. High on a hilltop dominating the Val d’Elsa and surrounded by vineyards and forests, Castellina is arguably the most famous of the Chianti hill towns. Take time to wander the streets, her fortress and ponder the fact that this now sleepy village at the heart of Tuscan wine making was once a fierce battleground witnessing centuries of war. Your next destination is Radda in Chianti. Look around, you are completely surrounded by the vineyards of Chianti. Enjoy lunch in Radda before an afternoon trip to Volpaia and the Albola castle. This castle was originally built in Medieval times but has been remodelled and made into an incredible wine estate! In the late afternoon you will head back to Siena.
Day 4: Brunello di Montalcino
Today you will discover the secrets of one of the most well known and costly wines of Tuscany, Brunello di Montalcino. Your introduction to this masterpiece of wine making begins at Altesino. Here surrounded by grape vines producing the prestigious “Sangiovese Grosso” grapes, with a spectacular view of Montalcino you will have a guided tasting of the fine Altesino wines. You will then head up to Montalcino on one of the most beautiful roads in Tuscany. Here at the medieval fortress you will enjoy a lunch featuring typical Tuscan fare that will be accompanied by local wine. Your afternoon will include a visit at the Fattoria dei Barbi which is owned by one of the oldest families in the area where you will enjoy their fine Brunello. You will return to your hotel in Siena in the late afternoon.
Day 5: Olive oil and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
This morning, after breakfast you are off to discover a traditional cold press olive oil mill. Here you will learn the ancient technique of producing olive oil. The mill, which lies in the valley below Cortona, is one of the oldest around, dating back to 1875 when donkeys were used to rotate the stone disk. After visiting the olive oil mill you will head up the hill to Cortona. Recently made famous by the book turned movie “Under the Tuscan Sun” Cortona will delight you with her spectacular views, quaint streets, and friendly people. Your lunch will include local delicacies and of course good wine! In the afternoon you will visit Avignonesi, one of the most noted producers of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. They are also the only wine producers to experiment with a circular vineyard that is unique to Avignonesi. Enjoy tasting this noble wine that received its name from the ancient practice of noble families having the first pick of the best grapes to produce the wines that would grace their tables. After the tasting you will head to Montepulciano where you will have time to explore this beautiful medieval village before returning to Siena.
Day 6: After breakfast you are off to follow more adventures of your own.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
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