Wine Tasting in Chianti

Our ride from Bologna to Siena was gorgeous, to say the least. We pulled over a few times, just to take in the view. The rolling hills were dotted with vineyards and olive groves, all in shades of green and gold with hints of red that teased fall. It was true countryside, with the two-lane road (Strada del Vino) reminiscent of northern Napa Valley, but woven through rolling hills instead of a valley floor. I’m pretty sure this is exactly what everyone in America thinks Italian countryside looks like. The best possible stereotype.

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Tavarnelle Val di Pesa
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Tavarnelle Val di Pesa
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Tavarnelle Val di Pesa
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Tavarnelle Val di Pesa
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Castellina in Chianti

Upon our arrival in Siena (technically, we stayed in the little village of Pontignanello, which was a 10-minute car ride from Siena), the host of our agriturismo treated us to a wine tasting of their wines. Their hospitality was incredible and the wines even better. A family-run operation, the father of our host showed us around the property, the cellar and the bottling line (all areas of interest for my winemaker fiancé) and took great care of us while there. The wines were reasonably priced and quite worth the value. A wonderful showing of Chianti indeed! He also surprised us with a tasting of authentic Vin Santo, which is a spectacular Italian dessert wine and labor of love, judging from the grapes hanging to dry outside the winery.

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Querciavalle (brand) from Agricola Losi
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touring Agricola Losi
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touring Agricola Losi
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grapes for Vin Santo

The experience was the epitome of romantic Italian wine tasting and the perfect welcome to Siena!

2 comments on “Wine Tasting in Chianti

  1. Great Post! Happy you appreciated your stay in our wine estate and you write and post the pictures! You are welcome to come back whenever you wish!

  2. Thanks Valeria, we think of our time on your beautiful property often and hope to come back some day! Please say hello to your father and mother for us!

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