Menu of a Tuscan Landscape

Menu

Degustazione di Toscana

A Journey of Flavors and Scenery

 

Antipasti (Appetizers): Sapori di Siena  

Suggested Pairing: Vernaccia di San Gimignano

Begin your Tuscan feast in the enchanting city of Siena, where history whispers through the cobblestone streets. Picture yourself wandering past ancient piazzas, the aroma of freshly baked olive bread wafting through the air, mingling with the sharpness of aged Pecorino cheese and the peppery freshness of arugula.

Complement this opening delight with Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a crisp white wine that captures the essence of Tuscany’s sun-kissed vineyards. Its floral notes and mineral undertones echo the gentle breeze that caresses the rolling hills. As you sip, let your eyes linger on the majestic Piazza del Campo, basking in the golden glow of the Tuscan sun—an exquisite prelude to the culinary adventure ahead.

 

Side Dishes: What to Do in Siena

 Piazza del Campo: The heart of Siena, this iconic square is where the famous Palio horse race is held twice a year

 Torre del Mangia: Climb this towering landmark for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside

Duomo di Siena: Marvel at the Gothic architecture of the Siena Cathedral, renowned for its stunning striped marble facade and intricate interiors

Santa Maria della Scala: A former medieval hospital turned museum complex showcasing Renaissance art and frescoes

 Basilica of San Domenico: Home to Saint Catherine of Siena relics, it’s a place of history and spiritual reflection

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Primi Piatti (First Course): Bold Flavors of Montepulciano  

Suggested Pairing: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

Next, we journey to Montepulciano, a town steeped in wine-making tradition. Here, the robust character of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano unfolds—a deep ruby-red wine rich with wild berries, spice, and a hint of leather, echoing the region’s heritage.

Savor this bold wine alongside pappardelle al cinghiale, with wide pasta ribbons enveloping a savory wild boar ragu. Imagine dining in a rustic trattoria, walls adorned with ancient barrels, the scent of rosemary enveloping you like a warm embrace. Each bite transports you through dense woods and sun-dappled trails, a tribute to the natural bounty of this exquisite land.

 

Side Dishes: What to Do in Montepulciano

Visit ancient wine cellars beneath the city to explore the history of Vino Nobile di MontepulcianoPalazzo

Contucci: Tour this Renaissance palace and its historic wine estate, famous for its tastings

San Biagio Church: A beautiful example of Renaissance architecture nestled just outside the town

The Wine Road: Follow the Strada del Vino Nobile, a scenic route connecting local vineyards, perfect for wine lovers

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Secondi Piatti (Second Course): Il Cuore del Chianti  

Suggested Pairing: Chianti Classico Riserva

As we arrive in the picturesque Chianti region, indulge in the rich, earthy notes of Chianti Classico Riserva. Aged to perfection, this wine reveals layers of ripe plums and a hint of tobacco, like a well-crafted narrative unfolding.

Pair it with bistecca alla Fiorentina, a thick, juicy steak grilled to perfection, kissed by flames, and seasoned simply with sea salt and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Picture yourself dining al fresco at a charming Fattoria, surrounded by endless vineyards. As you savor each succulent bite, you taste the very soul of Tuscany—simple, honest, and utterly unforgettable

 

Side Dishes: What to Do in the Chianti Region

Castello di Brolio: Explore this historic castle, surrounded by vineyards, and enjoy tastings from one of Chianti’s oldest wineries.

Radda in Chianti: Wander the picturesque alleys of this medieval town, perched atop a hill with panoramic views.

Chianti Sculpture Park: A unique open-air museum blending contemporary art with the natural landscape.

Olive Oil Tours: Taste local olive oil at a traditional frantoio (olive mill), learning about pressing.

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Dolci (Dessert): Dolcezza di Montalcino 

Suggested Pairing: Brunello di Montalcino

For the grand finale, you can ascend to the hilltop town of Montalcino, where Brunello di Montalcino reigns supreme. This wine celebrates craftsmanship and patience with its elegant bouquet of red cherries and wild herbs.

Delight in Santucci—crisp almond biscuits that beckon for a dip in Vin Santo, Tuscany’s cherished dessert wine. As you indulge, imagine the twilight enveloping the rolling hills, the silhouette of medieval towers standing proud. This moment is a sweet embrace of Tuscany’s beauty, a perfect conclusion to your culinary journey.

 

Side Dishes: What to Do in Montalcino

Fortezza di Montalcino: A medieval fortress offering stunning views of the town and vineyards below

Abbey of Sant’Antimo: A beautiful Romanesque abbey nestled in the countryside, where you can hear Gregorian chants

Brunello Wine Trail: Follow the Strada del Brunello, stopping at local wineries to sample world-renowned Brunello wines

Civic and Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art: Discover a collection of medieval art and relics housed in a historic building

Historic Wine Bars: Enjoy a glass of Brunello in one of the town’s many enotecas, pairing it with local pecorino and honey

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Digestivo (Digestif): I Profumi della Val d’Orcia

Suggested Pairing: Grappa di Chianti

No Tuscan feast concludes without a digestivo. Sip Grappa di Chianti, a spirit distilled from Sangiovese grapes, its warmth a final salute to your day. With each sip, envision driving through the Val d’Orcia, its undulating hills adorned with cypress trees, the air rich with the scents of wild fennel and thyme.

As you relish this potent spirit, take a moment to reflect on Tuscany’s hidden valleys, where nature and tradition blend seamlessly. This is a celebration of life’s simple pleasures—of making, tasting, and savoring the beauty that surrounds us.

 

Side Dishes: What to Do in the Val d’Orcia

Pienza: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Renaissance architecture and the delicious pecorino cheese

 Relax in the ancient thermal springs of this quaint spa town

San Quirico d’Orcia: Stroll through its beautiful gardens and historic churches

Monte Amiata: For nature enthusiasts, hike Tuscany’s highest extinct volcano, surrounded by beech and chestnut forests

The Cypresses of Val d’Orcia: Capture the iconic landscape, with rolling hills dotted by slender cypress trees, a photographer’s paradise

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Grazie per Avere Viaggiato con Noi!

We hope this culinary journey through Tuscany has left you with memories as rich as the flavors you’ve savored. From Siena’s medieval charm to the elegance of Montalcino, each course captures the essence of this enchanting region—its landscapes, wines, and timeless allure.

Your table will always be ready in Tuscany. Until our next adventure—arrivederci e buon appetito!

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