Argomenti trattati
Many visitors flock to Tuscany for its iconic cities like Florence and Siena, yet a wealth of culinary experiences awaits beyond the well-trodden paths. During a recent journey with Collette, a travel company renowned for its guided tours, the opportunity arose to explore lesser-known culinary spots in the heart of Tuscany. These hidden gems provide not just meals; they offer intimate experiences that capture the essence of authentic Tuscan life.
As a passionate food lover and travel enthusiast, I actively seek unique experiences that extend beyond the ordinary. In Tuscany, I encountered transformative experiences focused on connecting with local culture through food. For those who believe they have seen it all, these three culinary destinations promise to reignite your appreciation for this stunning region.
Unforgettable wine tasting at Azienda Agricola Carmignani
When envisioning Tuscany, the image of rolling vineyards and wine tasting often surfaces, particularly given its reputation as the sole region producing Chianti. While numerous wineries offer tastings, few leave a lasting impression like Azienda Agricola Carmignani, located near the charming city of Lucca. After visiting nearby historic sites, we arrived at this family-operated organic winery, welcomed by picturesque views of undulating hills adorned with vines and olive groves.
As we made our way up the gravel driveway, a friendly black cat accompanied us, adding warmth to our arrival. Elena Carmignani, the talented sommelier, greeted us in the rustic two-story structure, where we learned about local agricultural practices and the story behind their wines. Along the way, we passed fragrant lemon shrubs that contribute to their homemade limoncello.
Tasting the essence of Tuscany
Inside the tasting room, we gathered around long wooden tables to savor a selection of their finest offerings: Rosso DOC Montecarlo, Theorema, Kapogiro rosé, and Tentazione white. Each wine was expertly paired with local delicacies such as spicy soppressata, olives, and freshly baked bread. The flavor profiles—earthy and fruity—reflect the Tuscan terroir, culminating in a refreshing glass of limoncello that danced on the palate.
Hands-on culinary adventure at Agriturismo Le Baccane
For travelers seeking an immersive experience, staying at a traditional fattoria is a dream come true. Agriturismo Le Baccane, nestled between Montecatini Terme and Pistoia, provides a tranquil escape surrounded by lush hills. This charming property features three guest apartments, a swimming pool, and a kitchen where the owner, Angela, and her family prepare delicious meals.
Our group participated in a memorable cooking class, where we crafted a multi-course dinner. Each table had a designated task; I was responsible for peeling potatoes, which we combined with the estate’s rich olive oil and fresh herbs from the garden. Others made pasta from scratch and created delightful desserts like tiramisu.
A culinary competition filled with laughter
As we worked, playful cats roamed the dining area, likely hoping to snag a taste of our creations. Once our feast was ready, we gathered to enjoy the fruits of our labor. To add a twist, a friendly competition judged by our bus driver determined the best tiramisu. Although our table did not win, the experience was filled with laughter, learning, and camaraderie.
Exploring sustainable practices at Poggio di Camporbiano
A short drive from San Gimignano led us to another hidden treasure, Poggio di Camporbiano, an organic farm promoting sustainable agriculture for over 30 years. Founded by a group of friends with a shared vision, this community welcomes volunteers and students alike to learn about and contribute to their eco-friendly practices.
We began our visit with a delightful cheese tasting, featuring both cow’s and goat’s milk varieties. The cheeses were paired with homemade bread, pumpkin jam, and red onion compote, creating a symphony of flavors. Each bite revealed the essence of the landscape, with subtle grassy notes that reflected the animals’ diets.
A glimpse into sustainable living
As a passionate food lover and travel enthusiast, I actively seek unique experiences that extend beyond the ordinary. In Tuscany, I encountered transformative experiences focused on connecting with local culture through food. For those who believe they have seen it all, these three culinary destinations promise to reignite your appreciation for this stunning region.0
As a passionate food lover and travel enthusiast, I actively seek unique experiences that extend beyond the ordinary. In Tuscany, I encountered transformative experiences focused on connecting with local culture through food. For those who believe they have seen it all, these three culinary destinations promise to reignite your appreciation for this stunning region.1