Banfi recognises the centrality of people to the company's development and growth and considers it essential to guarantee the best working conditions to support well-being in the workplace.
Continue readingThe People
The Territory
The project on the territory, carried out in collaboration with the Research Unit for Viticulture of the CREA and the Edmund Mach Foundation of San Michele all'Adige, aims at assessing the phytosanitary, agronomic and oenological aspects of some promising genotypes obtained by crossing or selecting vine varieties that have shown high quality standards and/or characters of reduced sensitivity to the main fungal diseases.
Continue readingDiscovering Monoclonal Enology
Monoclonal Oenology is an approach to winemaking that focuses on the isolation and fermentation of individual grape clones, rather than mixing grapes from different varieties or clones.
Continue readingEnological Pioneering ante litteram
Wine pioneering represents an ongoing challenge to push traditional boundaries, constantly exploring new opportunities and innovations in the world of wine.
Continue readingJazz & Wine in Montalcino 2023: all the information
After last year's great success, the Jazz & Wine in Montalcino, the atmospheric music festival that warms up the summer nights in this enchanting village with the warm notes of jazz and the harmony of the finest wines. A fascinating encounter between music and prestigious wines, the festival opens its doors to an unparalleled food, wine and music experience. Enthusiasts will have the opportunity to delight in the finest Tuscan wines, discover the stories of ancient wine cellars and enjoy live jazz stars.
Jazz & Wine: the dates
As every year for Jazz & Wine, the dates are the middle week of July: 18 to 22 July Artists from the international music scene will take the stage at the festival, now in its 26th year, with musical performances of the highest calibre, starting with from 9.45 p.m.
The organisation is entrusted to the artistic director Giampiero Rubeiwhich for years has been spearheading the most popular music trends, at the Rubei family of the Alexanderplatz of Rome, at Municipality of Montalcino and to Castello Banfi, the historic winery that has always promoted cultural initiatives aimed at enhancing the territory.
Jazz & Wine in Montalcino 2023: the programme
Jazz & Wine in Montalcino 2023 offers a rich programme of events and Italian and foreign guests. Here are the details of the days.
Events - 18 July
The first evening of Jazz & Wine in Montalcino 2023 will have as its exceptional setting the enchanting and evocative Castello Banfiin the heart of Poggio alle Mura. This ancient medieval fortress will host one of the brightest stars of the international jazz scene, the extraordinary Eliane Elias, The Bossa Queen, who will warm the hearts of all spectators with songs from her new album 'Quietude'. The piano virtuoso with the warm, sensual voice will be accompanied on stage at Jazz & Wine in Montalcino by Marc Johnson on double bass, Leandro Pellegrino on guitar and Rafael Barata to the battery.
Events - 19 July
The second evening will move to the Fortress of Montalcinoanother beautiful setting with a medieval flavour, which will welcome a guitar virtuoso who has long touched the hearts of jazz fans and beyond: Mike Stern Band. Accompanied by Lemi Stern (electric guitar, ngoni, vocals), Bob Franceschini (sax), Jimmy Haslip (electric bass) and Dennis Chambers (drums), will bring to the stage of Jazz & Wine in Montalcino 2023 the fusion atmosphere of his most famous songs.
Events - 20 July
Jazz & Wine continues with a programme of excellence, bringing international jazz icon to Europe for the first time Peter Erskine Quartetwho will perform at the Montalcino Fortress with Alan Easter (piano), Darek Oles (double bass) and George Garzone (sax).
Events - 21 July
The international soul of Jazz & Wine in Montalcino will also be breathed on Friday 21 July with an unmissable stage of the 50th anniversary and final tour of The Manhattan Transfera group that has been providing thrills for decades with its unique style and the virtuosity of its members.
Events - 22 July
On Saturday 22 July, Jazz & Wine participants will have the pleasure of listening live to the Tiromancino, who will be making a stop at the Fortezza di Montalcino during their Summer Tour to deliver a whirlwind of emotions with old and new songs.
Events - 23 July
Finally, on Sunday 23 July, the extraordinary singer-songwriter will perform Noa (aka Achinoam Nin). With an unparalleled sensitivity and a rare ability to weave musical genres and languages, Noa embodies the very quintessence of international jazz. Her notes will envelop the audience in an emotional embrace, transporting them on an unforgettable musical journey.
Where to eat and where to stay on the dates of Jazz & Wine 2023
In this evocative programme dedicated to the music and jazz soul of Montalcino, a place of honour will be held by wine and wineries in the areawhich form the other part of the soul of this enchanting village. In addition to the tastings which will accompany the musical performances in fact, Jazz & Wine 2023 is also an opportunity to discover the secrets of the most renowned wineries and admire the beauty of the Tuscan countryside.
Where to stay
What better location for stay during Jazz & Wine in Montalcino if not the prestigious Castello Banfi Wine Resorthosting the opening night of the festival?
The entire resort complex is dedicated to the wellness, at relax and the excellence food and wine of the region. Guests can stay at theIl Borgo Hotelwhere medieval architecture meets the refinement of the furnishings, the charm of halls and rooms of yesteryear meets the comfort and modern-day technology, and where the professionalism and the courtesy of the staff best express the traditional Tuscan hospitality.
Activities
In addition to attending Jazz & Wine, the programme for those visiting Montalcino during this period can be enriched with wonderful opportunities, such as horseback riding in the hills, the visit to cellars and vineyardsor the encounter with traditional Tuscan culinary delights at La Taverna or at the restaurant La Sala dei Grappoli.
The stay at the Castello Banfi Wine Resort will allow you to rediscover the harmony and serenity necessary to fully immerse yourself in the musical suggestions of the evening events of Jazz & Wine in Montalcino. An unparalleled experience, where music, excellent wines and the charm of the Tuscan hills come together in a symphony of emotions.
What to do 3 days in Tuscany
You want to plan a long weekend in the most authentic Tuscany among culture, villages and nature? Check out our tips for a breathtaking 3-days tour of Tuscany.
Complete and unforgettable 3-days tour of Tuscany
Tuscany is a land rich in beauty and charm, and a lifetime would not be enough to explore each of its villages, to discover all the scenic vistas and to fall in love with its traditions. The vestiges of its ancient past, the depth of its culture and the great variety of its landscape offer those who wonder where to go a few days in Tuscany the opportunity to create a multitude of thematic itineraries: the one dedicated to relax, in resorts immersed in unspoiled nature; the one dedicated to the world of wine, with tastings and visits to wineries; the historical-artistic one, among fairy-tale villages and museums; or the maritime one by train along the beautiful Etruscan Coast. That's why when wondering where to spend 3 days of vacation in Tuscany, it can be difficult to identify the right destinations right away. To help you organize a perfect long weekend in this wonderful land, we have prepared some tips.
Where to spend the weekend in Tuscany relaxing
The first step in deciding where to spend 3 days of your holiday in Tuscany is choose a location to stay overnight that allows you to reach your destinations easily, but is also cosy and hospitable, an oasis of peace to which you can return with pleasure after a day of exploration and adventure. The Castello Banfi Wine Resort is the ideal place to spend a relaxing and adventurous weekend in Tuscany: the equipped with every comfort for a holiday that will allow you to switch off for a few days and recharge your batteries with a relaxing massage or a stroll through the lush vineyards. Also, if you are wondering where to go around the Castello Banfi Wine Resort, there are plenty of activities to keep you pleasantly occupied, such as the lovers of trekking, cycling, and horseback riding in Val d'Orcia, the walks at horse or in mountain bike.
Three days in Tuscany: the wine itinerary
The most popular 3-day driving tour of Tuscany in any season has as its destination the city of wine, Montalcino, home of the famous Rosso and the 'highly appreciated Brunello with its fascinating olfactory complexity. Here, surrounded by a lush landscape of rolling hills and expanses of prized vineyards, you can discover the secrets of the most renowned wine productions by visiting local wineries and participating in tasting experiences. Don't forget to include in this 3-day driving tour of Tuscany a visit to museums related to the history and production of wine, such as the Wine Museum in Greve and the Bottle and Glass Museum in Poggio alle Mura, located in an authentic medieval castle.
Borgi itinerary in Tuscany
Planning an itinerary of the villages of Tuscany is not easy, as there are so many of them and they are all different. If you only have a weekend available and want to know what to visit in Tuscany in 2 days to be able to capture the true essence of this region dotted with fairy-tale villages and small towns perched on hillsides, we recommend visiting the Val d'Orcia. This UNESCO World Heritage area is home to a myriad of small villages where you can breathe in an atmosphere of yesteryear. Pienza, the Abbey of Sant'Antimo, the ancient tower of Sant'Angelo in Colle, Camigliano, Sasso d'Ombrone, and the walls of Castiglione d'Orcia are just some of the beauties of these villages to visit while staying at Castello Banfi Wine Resort.
Tuscany 3-days tour by train
Although many of the towns and villages mentioned above can only be reached by car, the beauty of Tuscany is not necessarily precluded to those who prefer to travel by public transportation. Here, then, are some 3-days tours of Tuscany by train.
Etruschi Line
Etruschi Line is one of the most interesting initiatives for those who want to organize a 3-days tour of Tuscany by train. Promoted by Trenitalia and the Comitato Promotore Costa Etrusca, the initiative allows you to reach the beautiful beaches, villages and archaeological sites of the Etruscan Coast by regional train, as well as offering discounts and promotions at beach and hotel facilities.
Marina di Cecina, Follonica, Grosseto and San Vincenzo are just some of the stops you can visit comfortably by train, for a 3-days full immersion in one of the most archaeologically and scenically fascinating coastlines.
The Siena-Chiusi line Chianciano Terme
The Siena-Chiusi Chianciano Terme line also offers an excellent opportunity for a 3-day tour of Tuscany by train. The first day can be entirely devoted to visiting the 'charming city of Siena, while the second day, following the stops at the train stations, you can visit the charming villages that dot this area of Tuscany, such as Asciano and Rapolano Terme, delving deeper and deeper into the wine lands, until you reach Montepulciano, where you can stay overnight. On the third day, after a visit to the area's wineries, you will take the train back to Chianciano Terme, where you can relax with a wellness path among the thermal waters.
Wine and food tours in Tuscany
Practical advice and useful tips to set off on a food and wine tour in the heart of Tuscany and discover the traditional flavours and aromas of the area.
Wine and food tours in Tuscany: 8 hints and tips
A food and wine tour in Tuscany is an evocative and emotional journey that invites lovers of good food and wine to immerse themselves in an all-embracing and multi-sensorial experience, discovering the culinary and wine excellence of the region. Indeed, Tuscany, with its fascinating cultural and scenic richness, stands out as one of the most sought-after destinations for this kind of activity, attracting travellers from all over the world with its renowned culinary tradition.
Tourists embarking on a food and wine tour in Tuscany of two days or more are enveloped in a symphony of flavours, aromas and panoramas, guided by expert sommeliers, chefs and local guides who passionately unveil the territory's hidden treasures. But what is the most interesting wine and food itinerary in Tuscany of all? What are the activities associated with this new form of tourism? Here are some tips for a truly unforgettable wine and food weekend in Tuscany.
Wine and food tours in Tuscany: the wine routes
Very popular is the wine and food tour in the Chianti region, along the scenic Chiantigiana road connecting Florence and Siena and winding through the majestic Tuscan countryside, past flourishing vineyards and fairytale villages such as Castagnoli, Greve in Chianti and San Gimignano.
Another 2-day wine and food tour in Tuscany not to be missed by wine lovers is a day in Montalcino and a day in Montepulciano. These two medieval villages, less than an hour's drive from each other, are authentic jewels set amidst lush hills, and offer an unforgettable journey to discover the flavours and traditions of yesteryear.
In Montepulciano, famous for its Vino Nobile, the food and wine tour of Tuscany is enriched with further delights. The town boasts splendid Renaissance palaces and charming narrow streets, including Piazza Grande, the scene of historic and cultural events of great significance. In Montalcino, the heart of the famous Brunello di Montalcino, visitors will have the opportunity to visit ancient wineries, such as those of Banfi, explore the Fortress of Montalcino, a majestic 14th-century bastion offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, or taste the best local products in an old-fashioned shop, such as the Enoteca.
Food and wine tour in Montalcino: departure from Castello Banfi Wine Resort
Near Montalcino is also the prestigious Castello Banfi Wine Resort, an oasis of tranquility and peace surrounded by vineyards, and the ideal place to stay for a food and wine tour in Montalcino. Here, in addition to enjoying the magical experience of staying in an authentic medieval castle, you will have the opportunity to discover the culinary delights of Tuscany, explore ancient villages, and relax away from the chaos of the city, thanks to the resort's proximity to the main points of interest for a food and wine tour of Tuscany and the numerous activities connected to it.
Visit to cellars
The cellar, which opens its doors to wine connoisseurs, is the most intimate area of any winery, its beating heart where, as in the case of Cantine Banfi, the variety and excellence of the grapes is preserved and enhanced through the fusion of state-of-the-art technology, technical experimentation and traditional knowledge.
You can choose between a morning tour with lunch or an afternoon tour with dinner, consisting of a tasting menu with several courses. Or, if you prefer a private tour, you will have the opportunity to visit not only the winery but also the vineyards and the prestigious Balsameria, where the renowned Etruscan Balsamic Condiment is produced; a guided tasting of three of the best labels and a 4-course tasting menu lunch at La Taverna Restaurant.
Tasting and Wine Bar
For connoisseurs, a food and wine tour of Tuscany mainly follows the wine-tasting route. We offer several thematic wine tasting menus, which will make you fall in love with the incredible variety of Sangiovese or take you by smell and taste on a journey through the authentic flavours of Tuscany and Piedmont.
Starred dinner
If you are looking for a place to eat during your food and wine tour in Tuscany where you can enjoy local delicacies prepared according to tradition, but also an experience characterized by luxury, courtesy, and the art of hospitality, we recommend booking a Michelin-starred dinner at La Sala dei Grappoli Restaurant, located in the enchanting Castello Banfi.
Wine and food weekend in Tuscany: not only food and wine
But a food and wine itinerary in Tuscany is not only linked to food and wine, but also to relaxation, culture and knowledge of the territory. The culinary tradition is in fact deeply linked to the history of the villages and towns, and only by visiting them is it possible to understand the true origin of the most delicious dishes.
During your food and wine weekend in Tuscany, you can dedicate a few hours to relaxing at the thermal baths of Bagno Vignoni, a unique village with a free-access thermal pool in the centre of the main square; explore Monte Amiata with its suggestive trekking itineraries; or visit the enchanting Abbey of San Lorenzo al Lanzo, also known as Badia Ardenghesca, in the municipality of Civitella Paganico.
10 typical Siena dishes to try
Here are the typical dishes of Siena you absolutely must try and which wines to pair with them for a traditional Tuscan food and wine experience.
The typical dishes of Siena that you absolutely must try
In Siena, culinary traditions are intertwined with the city's thousand-year history, offering a truly unique gastronomic experience. In fact, the typical dishes of Siena are a precious testimony of its roots and culture, and each mouthful is a journey through time, a taste of tradition handed down from generation to generation.
Typical products of Siena:
Traditional appetizers
Siena's typical products are linked to the richness of its territory, the fertility of its soil and, above all, the care of its breeders who raise top-quality livestock and follow the entire food chain step by step, so as to bring only genuine products to the table, many of which enjoy protected designation of origin (PDO) or protected geographical indication (PGI) status. Cheeses, wines and cured meats are in fact true sensory masterpieces that capture the authentic soul of Siena, offering an unparalleled gastronomic symphony.
Pecorino of Pienza
The pecorino of Pienza, a hard cheese with a natural rind, enchants with its complex flavor, derived from the use of pasteurized milk from sheep raised in a semi-wild state. To fully appreciate its taste, a Brunello di Montalcino is the ideal accompaniment, thanks to its elegant structure and hints of ripe fruit.
Finocchiona
Finocchiona is a typical cured meat from the Siena area. With its delicately spiced pork and the enveloping aroma given by the presence of fennel seeds and red wine, it is a real treat for the senses, capable of whetting even the appetite of the famous Niccolò Machiavelli. Pairing it with a rich, full-bodied Tuscan red wine enhances its skilful blend of flavours.
Typical first courses from Siena
The typical first courses of Siena are fully in line with the Tuscan culinary tradition, which is mainly based on the artisanal preparation of fresh egg pasta, both long, such as pappardelle, and stuffed, such as ravioli and tortelli.
Pici with wild boar ragout
If you are visiting the city and wondering what to eat in Siena, pici al ragù di cinghiale (pici pasta with wild boar ragù) is a choice that will satisfy even the most demanding palates: the harmony between this extremely characteristic type of pasta and a strong, decisive sauce creates a perfect symphony of flavors.
Gnudi
Gnudi senesi are one of the most delicious and original dishes in traditional Sienese cuisine, a reinterpretation of the classic tortellini or stuffed gnocchi. The term “gnudi” (which in Italian means “naked”) refers to the fact that these morsels do not have the classic pasta shell on the outside, but consist only of a filling of spinach, ricotta, eggs, Parmesan cheese, flour, and spices, mixed together to form delicious balls.
Usually, gnudi are dressed with melted butter and sage or a simple tomato sauce. The result is a delicious, delicate and refined dish that enhances the authenticity of the ingredients used and reflects the essence of the Sienese culinary tradition.
Sienese main courses
But the typical cuisine of Siena best expresses its uniqueness and distinctive character in its main courses, and in meat in particular. Although meat is indeed renowned throughout Tuscany, it is in this city that tradition has developed the most intriguing recipes.
Cinta Senese ribs
Among the typical Sienese main courses, the Cinta Senese ribs stand out, a meat derived from a very ancient breed of pig originating right in Tuscany, unique in the world, to the point of having obtained the protected designation of origin. Wrapped in a thin veil of heady flavours, these ribs offer an unparalleled taste experience. The meat, tender and succulent, blends with notes of game and hints of aromatic herbs, delighting the most demanding palates.
Tripe Sienese style
Trippa alle senese is, as its name suggests, one of Siena's most popular dishes. The secret of its goodness is contained not only in the choice of quality ingredients with which to season the tripe (fresh tomatoes or tomato puree, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, parsley and a mix of herbs), but above all in the slow and patient cooking, which allows the flavours to be skilfully amalgamated, resulting in a rich and dense sauce.
Scottiglia
Scottiglia is a tasty meat stew that is one of the typical main courses of Siena and Tuscany in particular, given that its original recipe has its roots in the ancient peasant traditions of the area. The preparation of scottiglia involves the use of various farm-raised meats, such as lamb, rabbit, chicken, and beef, but also game meats, such as wild boar and hare, when available. The meats are slowly stewed together with tomatoes, onions, garlic, aromatic herbs, and red wine and often served with polenta or toasted Tuscan bread.
Typical sweets of Siena
A meal with typical products from Siena can only end on a sweet note with ricciarelli, cantucci and panforte. These typical Siena sweets are so good that they are exported all over Italy, helping to spread the culinary art of this enchanting city throughout the peninsula.
Ricciarelli
Ricciarelli, delicious soft biscuits made from ground almonds, sugar, egg whites, and lemon zest, enchant with their unmistakable aroma.
Cantucci
Cantucci have made history in Tuscan cuisine thanks to their intoxicating fragrance, enhanced by pairing them with the characteristic vinsanto or Florus, a Moscadello di Montalcino DOCG produced by Banfi. This pairing is a must-try if you are visiting the city of Siena or staying at theHotel il Borgo di Castello Banfi Wine Resort, a hotel less than an hour away from Siena.
Panforte
Panforte is a typical Christmas dessert, but it can be found in pastry shops in Siena and the surrounding area all year round. Made with almonds, walnuts, candied fruit, spices, and honey, it is a real treat for young and old alike and one of Siena's most beloved traditional dishes.
Summer in Tuscany: 5 original ideas
Summer in Tuscany? Here are 5 wonderful places to visit that are off the beaten track.
Discover all the recommendations from Castello Banfi Wine Resort.
Summer in Tuscany: 5 non-tourist ideas
Summer in Tuscany is an unparalleled experience, a symphony of emotions and delights for all the senses. Among the rolling hills and ancient olive trees, the landscapes are painted with vivid and evocative colors, in an enchanting setting that leaves you breathless, and the cultural richness of this land offers encounters with masterpieces from every era.
But it is not only Florence, Pisa, Siena, Montalcino and the Chianti hills that contain such masterpieces: there are many small towns and villages in Tuscany rich in hidden treasures, beautiful landscapes and art, as well as recreational activities in contact with nature that will make Tuscany in the summer the most beautiful memory of your holiday.
In this region of rare beauty, summer is a feast for the eyes, a journey into the most authentic Italy, where you can breathe in the essence of a land steeped in history, art, and tradition. Here, then, is what to see in Tuscany in summer and what alternative activities to do for fun and relaxation.
What to do in Tuscany in summer
Summer in Tuscany is not just about the sea: this region offers Italian and foreign tourists a wide range of attractions during the warm season. Trekking, for example, is a unique and captivating experience. Among vineyards, hills, olive groves, and villages of yesteryear , you can breathe fresh air and experience a fusion with nature, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Winding paths lead to fairytale views, and every step awakens a sense of adventure and exploration. For lovers of trekking, cycling, and horseback riding and the cycling or horse riding, Tuscany in summer is the ideal destination.
But summer in Tuscany also means concerts, festivals, medieval reenactments, and good food: food and wine events linked to the region's finest products are an integral part of a sophisticated, refined form of tourism that is no longer so niche. Surrounded by lush nature, landscapes rich in history, and warmed by the unparalleled Tuscan hospitality, wine tourists in Tuscany in the summer enjoy all the magical experiences this region has to offer.
Summer in Tuscany: where to go
When spending the summer in Tuscany, where should you go and what should you see away from the big cities, which are always crowded with visitors?
Here are 5 non-touristy destinations that will give you an unforgettable vacation.
Montefioralle
Montefioralle is a small, romantic village in the Chianti area, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Strolling through the narrow streets, admiring the ancient houses still adorned with colorful flowers in their windows, and enjoying a delicious gelato in the shade of the medieval castle is an alternative way to enjoy summer in Tuscany and understand its true essence.
Pitigliano
The village of Pitigliano, in the heart of the Maremma, is also charming and characteristic. It is a small town perched on a tuff hill overlooking the surrounding countryside, also known as “Little Jerusalem” due to the importance of the Jewish community that has been present there since the 16th century and which has consequently influenced the town's urban planning.
In Pitigliano you can admire the synagogue and the Jewish ghetto, the fascinating Etruscan necropolis, the majestic Medici aqueduct, the beautiful Fontana delle Sette Cannelle and the beautiful Palazzo Orsini, a fortress that now houses the Archaeological Museum and Library.
Bolgheri
The historic center of Bolgheri is a truly enchanting landscape, with the majestic Castello dei Conti della Gherardesca, artisan workshops, squares steeped in history, and the Viale dei Cipressi, made famous by the pen of poet Giosuè Carducci. Carducci lived in this village for several years, always finding inspiration here, and if you are wondering what to do in Tuscany in the summer, a tour dedicated entirely to the poet is definitely an experience not to be missed.
Vinci
The village of Vinci, about fifty kilometers from Florence, is famous for being the birthplace of the brilliant Leonardo, but despite its fame, it is still a little-visited tourist destination and therefore waiting to be discovered for an alternative and cultural summer in Tuscany. The main attraction of the village is the Leonardo Museum, which houses one of the exhibitions dedicated to the great Renaissance artist and is located inside a building that is also full of charm: the castle of the Guidi Counts, ancient lords of the village, also called the “castle of the ship” because of its characteristic shape.
Visiting the town in the footsteps of Leonardo is a new and culturally rewarding experience: both the Church of Santa Croce and the Library, not to mention the Piazza with Mario Ceroli's sculpture 'The Man of Vinci' are dotted with signs of Leonardo's presence in the town.
Poggio alle Mura
Poggio alle Mura is the ideal place to spend a summer in Tuscany ì that is not just about the sea. This enchanting location near Montalcino is centered around the Castello Banfi Wine Resort, a medieval fortress surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, transformed into a magnificent resort. Here you can enjoy the experience of sleeping in a real medieval castle without sacrificing modern luxury and comfort: the beautiful suites of the Hotel Il Borgo are a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, while the common areas offer the opportunity to relax surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and views. Here you will also find the Glass Museum, which houses glass masterpieces from all eras, including Picasso's famous “The Bearer.”
Summer in Tuscany is therefore a journey to discover the scenic, historical, artistic, cultural and gastronomic beauty of a wonderful and unforgettable region. Have a great summer, we are waiting for you!
Tuscan summer dishes: 10 best
What are the typical Tuscan dishes to enjoy in summer?
Discover traditional Tuscan summer cuisine on the Castello Banfi blog.
Tuscan summer dishes: which ones to try on holiday?
In this sunny summer, the desire to indulge in fresh, healthy meals during a holiday in Tuscany tantalises the palates of the many tourists present, who, however, do not want to miss out on the unique taste experience that the region has to offer and who are therefore looking for the most typical Tuscan summer dishes.
Tuscany, a land of culinary excellence, offers a rich assortment of typical Tuscan summer recipes that embrace the bounty of seasonal delights and the secrets of an ancient food and wine tradition. At home or in a restaurant, typical Tuscan summer dishes glow with colours and flavours, in a riot of taste that involves all the senses.
Where to try them:
The ideal place to enjoy Tuscan summer recipes is La Taverna Restaurant, which embodies the quintessence of regional cuisine and tradition. Nestled in a landscape of rolling green hills and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, beneath the vaults of the ancient cellars of the Castello Banfi Wine Resort, La Taverna emerges as the ideal culinary temple for savoring authentic and genuine dishes, a true ode to summer in Tuscany. But what are the most famous and appreciated Tuscan summer dishes?
Tuscan summer starters
Farinata is one of the most popular Tuscan summer appetizers: this chickpea flour dish is ideal for a light lunch break or as a tasty appetizer. Golden and crispy on the outside, it has a soft and flavorful center. It can be enjoyed hot, on its own, or accompanied by a platter of typical regional cold cuts and cheeses for a traditional appetizer, but it is also perfect to take to the beach or on trips out of town to visit the beautiful Tuscan countryside, as it retains its fragrance and delicious, authentic flavor for quite some time.
As the name suggests, acciughe alla povera (poor man's anchovies) is one of the traditional Tuscan summer appetizers, which over the centuries has developed typical Tuscan summer recipes using genuine, flavorful ingredients. Acciughe alla povera, a typical Livorno recipe, is a riot of flavors that satisfies even the most demanding palates, as well as being very simple to prepare. Once the anchovies have been cleaned, they are marinated for six hours in white wine vinegar and then seasoned with Tropea onions and classic onions, arranged in layers like a sort of lasagna and enriched with chili pepper and extra virgin olive oil.
Crostini with fegatini are one of the typical Tuscan summer recipes that are a must: with their intense flavor and peasant origins, they embody the very essence of Tuscan food and wine and are perfect for enjoying in any season.
Tuscan summer first courses
In most typical Tuscan recipes, both summer and otherwise, stale bread or croutons are among the most commonly used ingredients, as is the case with the famous tuscan panzanella. This dish is often considered the summer version of vegetable soup or a heartier salad and is so deeply rooted in Tuscan tradition that even Boccaccio mentions it in one of his novellas. The freshness of ripe tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers, the intense flavor of red onion, the aroma of fresh basil and olive oil, mixed together with fragrant croutons of toasted Tuscan bread, create a combination that tantalizes the palate and the senses on hot summer days.
Another tasty Tuscan summer dish famous throughout the region is pici all'aglione, seasoned with Slow Food Presidium Chiana aglione, extra virgin olive oil, and tomato.
Another tasty Tuscan summer dish famous throughout the region is pici all'aglione, seasoned with Slow Food Presidium aglione from Chiana, extra virgin olive oil, and tomato.
Tuscan summer main courses
Whether it's Tuscan summer seafood or meat dishes, Tuscany always offers tasty traditional recipes. One of these is cacciucco alla livornese, a fish soup served with croutons. Once a symbol of peasant cuisine because it was made with fish scraps, in more recent times it has been revisited by top chefs who use top-quality ingredients such as seafood and shellfish: an excellent Tuscan summer seafood dish.
And we cannot fail to include grilled Florentine steakamong Tuscan summer dishes, accompanied by a side dish of fresh tomatoes, for a hearty and flavorful meal that is very easy to prepare.
Tuscan Summer Sweets
Tuscany, the undisputed queen of culinary art, boasts a pastry-making tradition as ancient as the cities that have shaped the history of this region. Among its most prized desserts, cantucci and ricciarelli are undoubtedly the stars of the culinary tradition. Free of cream and therefore easier to store in summer, they tantalize the senses and delight the palate: as Tuscan summer desserts, they are practical to take with you to the beach or serve at the table as dessert.
Finally, among Tuscan summer dishes, there are also some fresh recipes for preparing summer desserts and cakes. One example is the tuscan lattaiolo. This mixture of milk, eggs, sugar, and flour takes shape in the oven, revealing its creamy texture, from which the fresh fragrance of cinnamon and lemon emanates. It can be enjoyed by the spoonful or cut into squares and decorated with a generous sprinkling of powdered sugar.
