We spent a day in Chianti: Amazing Wine Tastings & Local Food!
Exploring Chianti: Wine Tastings, Local Food & Stunning Villages!
Chianti is one of those places that feels like it’s straight out of a postcard. Rolling hills, sprawling vineyards, and quaint villages define this region, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling through Tuscany. In this blog post, I’ll take you through our day spent exploring some of Chianti's finest wineries and most beautiful towns.
A Taste of Tuscany: Lunch in Chianti
Our journey began with a stop at a charming restaurant in the heart of Chianti. Nestled among the rolling hills, this spot offered not only delicious local cuisine but also breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. We started our meal with a refreshing Tuscan lemonade, a perfect companion to the warm summer day. The highlight of our meal? Onion ravioli with saffron and perfectly cooked salted cod – definitely one of the best dishes we’ve had on this trip!
After soaking in the views and flavours, it was time to dive into what Chianti is famous for – wine!
First Stop: Castello di Verrazzano
Our first winery of the day was Castello di Verrazzano, a historic estate that has been producing wine for centuries. This was not just any wine tasting – it was an experience. The tour included multiple courses of food paired with six different wines, all while taking in the stunning scenery. Though we didn’t have time for the full tour, we managed to sneak in a quick tasting and learned a bit about the estate’s fascinating history. Fun fact: The estate’s founder, Verrazzano, was an explorer who reached North America and has a famous bridge in New York named after him!
A Hidden Gem: Podere Bucine
Next, we ventured to Podere Bucine, a small family-run winery that produces only 4,000 bottles a year. This intimate and rustic spot was a highlight of our day. We enjoyed a generous tasting of their best wines, accompanied by a delicious charcuterie board. The vibe here was laid-back and cozy – like enjoying wine on your own patio. It was a refreshing contrast to the more commercial wineries, and the rosé was especially delightful on a hot summer day.
Exploring Montefioralle: Chianti’s Most Beautiful Village
After our tastings, we made our way to Montefioralle, a tiny village that’s been named the most beautiful in the Chianti region. Walking through its narrow streets, lined with ancient stone houses and vibrant flowers, felt like stepping back in time. The village is small – so small, in fact, that we walked through it entirely in about five minutes! Still, it was an enchanting stop and a perfect place to unwind after a day of wine tasting.
Final Stop: Fattoria Le Fonti
Our last winery visit of the day was Fattoria Le Fonti, a remote and peaceful spot where we enjoyed another round of tastings. This time, the rosé once again stole the show. The quiet, intimate atmosphere made it the perfect way to wrap up our wine tour. With hundreds of wineries in the Chianti region, it’s hard to go wrong, but these smaller, family-owned spots are where you’ll find the most authentic experiences.
Ending the Day in Castellina in Chianti
We ended our day in the village of Castellina in Chianti, where we enjoyed a delicious dinner in a cozy restaurant. The town, with its charming streets and ancient history, was the perfect backdrop for our final evening in Chianti. After a day filled with wine, food, and stunning scenery, we couldn’t have asked for a better way to wind down.
Final Thoughts
Chianti is a region that captures the essence of Tuscany – breathtaking landscapes, incredible food, and, of course, world-class wine. If you’re planning a trip to Tuscany, make sure to add this wine country to your itinerary. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a beautiful place to explore, Chianti has something for everyone.