Florence- Part II

One day in Florence was entirely dedicated to Tuscany!  We hired a private driver to take us around to different wineries, hill-top villages, and places to taste olive oil & balsamic vinegar.  We absolutely loved our guide and Derek and I learned so much that day!  In fact, this day was probably our most memorable and favorite out of the whole trip.  As you’ll be able to tell, the weather was not the greatest, but it did not ruin our time!

First stop, Florence’s most romantic overlook, Piazza San Michelangelo. 

We went to many medieval hill top villages.  My favorite was probably San Gimignano.  I loved the little shops at each stop and also to take in the history of each place!

We made a quick stop in Sienna; although, I can see how people make this an overnight stop.  We learned a lot about this city and it amazed Derek and I.  If you ever have some free time, google this city…it is like no other in the world!

Our first wine tasting was at Vescine Castelvecchi Winery.  We did all of our tastings in the Chianti Classico region. We learned quite a bit about wine.  We were able to tour the facilities and learn about the regulations winemakers must comply to in order to be sold as Chianti Classico.

The scenery was of course unbelievable.  We were were able to look and walk through some of the vines and actually tasted the sangiovese grape, which is the type used with Chianti Classico wine!

Another winery that was very memorable was the Montagliari Winery.  We met the actual owner and winemaker, David.  In fact, we had a glass of wine and GRAPPA with him!  He also produced balsamic vinegar and olive oil at his winery. After touring, we learned that the balsamic vinegar as we know it, is completely different than the true stuff!  It takes 20 years to make the true balsamic vinegar.  Crazy, huh?

And that was the quick overview of our day!  We would definitely go back to Tuscany if we ever go back to Italy.  We would explore the Brunello and Barolo regions….maybe someday we will get the chance!