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Wine Tasting Terms

From clarity to fluidity, here is a list of suitable terminology to describe the characteristics of wine during a tasting.

The complete terminologyfor wine tasting

More and more Italians are choosing to try wine tasting experiences offered by the most prestigious wine shops or tasting menus that pair gourmet dishes with selected wines at high-class restaurants such as La Sala dei Grappoli Restaurant near Montalcino. That's why, in order to get the most out of the experience, it's also useful to equip yourself with a complete and accurate wine tasting terminology, which allows you to fully appreciate the harmony of the combinations and the thousand nuances hidden in a glass of wine.

Wine tasting sheet: what it is and why it is important

Knowing which terms to use is also important if you want to fill out - or read - the wine tasting sheet, a valuable ally that allows you to organise the sensations felt during the tasting experience.
The most widely used model is the AIS (Italian Sommelier Association) wine tasting sheet, but also the FISAR (Italian Federation of Sommeliers, Hoteliers, and Restaurateurs) sheet: both are based on the analysis of the three fundamental aspects of sensory analysis carried out during tasting:

visual inspection
olfactory examination
gustatory examination

Here, then, is a short list of wine-tasting terminology useful for filling out a wine-tasting form and for appreciating the true value of a fine bottle, grasping all the nuances and peculiarities it holds.

Wine tasting terminology with visual examination

Describing the visual characteristics of wine is the first step in the tasting experience. The experience in fact begins with sight, and a fundamental role is played by the colour, clarity and fluidity of the wine.

Colour

The colour of the wine is the first element to be considered during the visual examination: distinguishing the different shades of colour and their reflections takes a lot of practice, but with time one can learn to distinguish a straw yellow wine from a golden yellow one.

Limpidity

The clarity of a wine depends on the presence or absence of suspended particles, such as yeast, sediment or other substances that could make the wine cloudy or opaque. A limpid wine appears crystal clear and brilliant and is an indication of higher quality and care in wine production, especially when it comes to sparkling wines.

Fluidity

In wine-tasting terminology, fluidity is a characteristic that is measured by the 'technical gesture' of rotating the goblet and observing the arches that the wine leaves on the rims: the wider the arches, the less fluid the wine.

Wine tasting terminology with olfactory examination

The second sense involved in tasting is the sense of smell: the bouquet of scents and aromas released by the wine is the result not only of carefully selected grapes, but also of a careful ageing process in special barrels, which enrich the wine's natural smell.

Intensity

The intensity of the wine is perceived through the first impact of the wine with the sense of smell: it is customary to bring the entire glass to the nose, tilting it slightly, and take slow, regular breaths.

Description

The description serves to define the type of aromas that characterise a wine (floral, fruity, etc.) and, more in depth, to recognise the individual essences that tickle the nose.

Wine tasting terminology with gustatory examination

The taste test isthe final part of the tasting process: the meaning of the entire experience becomes clear when the first drops of wine touch the tongue and palate, opening the door to endless sensations.

Wine Effervescence

The effervescence of the wine, which can only be distinguished for sparkling wines and sparkling wines, involves assessing the size of the bubbles and their persistence, i.e. whether or not they remain visible in the glass after the wine has been poured. The presence of bubbles also serves to clarify whether the wine can be associated with certain foods with a degreasing function, so it is important that this characteristic is included in the wine tasting sheet if it is accompanied by food.

Wine persistence

Wine persistence, within the broad terminology for wine tasting, plays a prominent role: it indicates how long the first taste sensation produced by the wine persists on the palate, even after swallowing.

Corpulence

Wine body refers to the sensation of fullness, weight and texture that is felt in the mouth when tasting a wine. It is a characteristic that indicates the presence of solid substances, such as tannins, residual sugars and extracts, which contribute to the structure of the wine.

Acidity

The amount of acids in wine determines its acidity, which can be perceived through a tingling sensation or freshness on the tongue. It adds vitality and structure to the wine, helping to balance the sweetness of residual sugars and the perception of tannins in the case of red wines.

Sapidity

Savouriness is a less common characteristic than other tastes in wine, such as acidity or sweetness, but it is equally important when it comes to wine tasting terminology. It depends mainly on the presence of mineral salts in the soil, which winegrowers carefully select.

Sweetness

The sweetness of wine is determined by the presence of residual natural sugars, which have not been completely converted into alcohol during fermentation. Words such as 'brut', 'extra-dry', 'dry', 'semi-dry', 'abboccato' or 'sweet' are used in wine-tasting terminology to provide a rough indication of the perceived level of sweetness in wines and sparkling wines.

Alcoholic strength

The alcohol content, indicated on the wine tasting sheet but also on the label, represents the percentage of alcohol present in the wine in relation to the total volume. It is a measure that informs about the concentration of alcohol in wine and is expressed as a percentage value. The alcohol content of wine can influence the sensory perception and body of the wine: a wine with a higher alcohol content may be perceived as more full-bodied, warm or intense, while a wine with a lower alcohol content may appear lighter or fresher.

What to see near Montalcino?

What to visit near Montalcino? Discover the most and least tourist attractions near this Tuscan city.

What to see near Montalcino: 10 things to visit

Montalcino, a charming medieval village nestled in the hills of Tuscany, is world-famous for its excellent wines, such as the much-loved Brunello di Montalcino; but in addition to its renowned wine production, the town and its surroundings also offer many other attractions and suggestive places to visit. Here is what to see near Montalcino.

Historic Centre of Montalcino and Fortress

With its thousand-year history, Montalcino enchants visitors with its timeless charm and offers a refined and rewarding travel experience. Enveloped by well-preserved medieval walls, the village of Montalcino is full of cobbled streets and ancient stone houses, evoking images of a bygone era. Walking through the historical centre is like plunging into a fairy-tale dimension, where medieval architecture reveals its stories steeped in tradition and nobility: wondering what there is to see in Montalcino actually means asking yourself if you are ready to take a wonderful journey into the past.
One of the most iconic elements of Montalcino is its imposing Fortezza, which towers majestically over the top of the village. Built in the 14th century, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, allowing the eyes to lose themselves among the rolling Tuscan hills, rows of vines and olive groves, creating a picture of rare beauty. It is also often the venue for numerous cultural events, including the renowned Jazz & Wine in Montalcino, a festival dedicated to music and good wine. But what is there near Montalcino?

Villages near Montalcino

The most beautiful villages near Montalcino to visit are Pienza, the 'ideal city' renovated by Pope Pius II in the 15th and become UNESCO heritage for its architectural beauty, including Piazza Piccolomini and the Duomo; Bagno Vignoniwhich stands on a natural water spring that emerges almost as if by magic in the large pool in the centre of the square; Castiglione d'Orciaa small village overlooked by the Rocca di Tentennano, an ancient medieval tower that is now a venue for exhibitions and cultural events; and Buonconventowith its magnificent Clock Tower and the Palazzo Podestarile, on which you can still admire the 25 coats of arms of the ancient podestà of this village near Montalcino.

The Bottle and Glass Museum

The Bottle and Glass Museum, named after Giovanni F. Mariani, is located within the enchanting Castello Banfi Wine Resort, a 14th-century castle in the heart of the village of Poggio alle Mura, making it a museum within a museum. In fact, it is possible to admire the old rooms of the castle, such as the old stables and the oil mill, where the original 1857 machinery is still preserved, while following the exhibition itinerary dedicated to the history of glass production, from the beautiful Roman glass-paste finds from the 5th and 4th centuries B.C. to Picasso's wonderful work, the "Portatrice".

What to see and do in Val d'Orcia

But Montalcino is only the beginning of an unforgettable journey in the Val d'Orciaa breathtaking landscape that extends beyond the borders of the village. Declared UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Val d'Orcia is a succession of hills shaped by agriculture and dotted with enchanting medieval villages.
Every glimpse reveals timeless beauty, a landscape painted with warm, harmonious colors that frame winding roads, golden wheat fields, majestic cypress trees, and neat vineyards. If you are wondering what to do and see in Val d'Orcia, there are many possibilities, whether it is relaxing in a magnificent wine resort or discovering the natural beauty through excursions, trekking, and walks , often accompanied by wine tastings at local wineries.

Relaxation at Castello Banfi Wine Resort

A vacation in Val d'Orcia thus becomes an immersive and relaxing experience discovering the world of wine. Among the things to see near Montalcino, Castello Banfi Wine Resort, a fairytale medieval village just a stone's throw from Montalcino. Here you can enjoy the experience of staying in an authentic medieval castle: the rooms and suites ofIl Borgo Hotel have been created by renovating part of the castle buildings, in a harmonious combination of ancient and modern, tradition and comfort.
You can also deepen your knowledge of wine through guided tours of the Banfi cellars or delicious lunches at La Taverna.

Visits to cellars

A comprehensive answer to the question of what to see in Montalcino must therefore include a visit to the wineries and wine shops in the surrounding area. This journey of discovery into the world of wine will give you the opportunity to visit real wineries and observe the wine production process up close, admiring how the latest technologies always go hand in hand with centuries-old traditions. In some places, such as The Enoteca, a characteristic Tuscan shop in the Castello Banfi Wine Resort, you can purchase the finest bottles and taste local products and the region's culinary excellence.

What do you eat at Easter in Tuscany?

Lamb, traditional cured meats, and traditions: this is how Easter is celebrated in the region of Tuscany.

Easter in Tuscany: gastronomic traditions

Spending Easter in Tuscany is an extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in a gastronomic journey that celebrates the rich culinary tradition of this enchanting region. Food becomes a sensory experience that unfolds through authentic flavors, refined delicacies, and fairytale landscapes. Traditional dishes prepared with the finest ingredients, cultivated with care and love, and medieval castles perched on green hills covered with vineyards and olive groves come together in a symphony of taste and emotion that tells the story of the soul of Tuscany.
Every dish served on the Easter table carries with it centuries of history and a deep connection to the land and its genuine products.

But what do people eat at Easter in Tuscany? What are the traditional Easter dishes that can be enjoyed in this region?

Appetiser with local products

To answer the question what is eaten at Easter in Tuscany, it is best to start from the beginning, that is, from the starters, based mainly on cold meats and cheeses. In Tuscany, however, talking about cold meats and cheeses is like opening the door to a riot of flavours, a veritable feast for the senses, given the great variety and above all quality of these products.

Tuscan cold cuts and cheeses

Local cured meats such as the delicate prosciutto crudo (cured ham), the aromatic finocchiona (smoked salami) and the tasty Tuscan salami release captivating aromas and flavours, while the sheep's and cow's milk cheeses, including the prized Tuscan pecorino, give the palate a divine creaminess and an unparalleled embrace of taste. Every bite conveys a gustatory ecstasy, a harmony of flavours that tantalises the palate and prepares it for a tasteful Easter lunch.

Chicken livers on Tuscan bread

Chicken livers are also a timeless classic of Tuscan cuisine, especially at Easter. Sautéed in a pan with garlic, onion, sage and white wine and served hot on traditional Tuscan bread crostini, they have a soft texture and intense flavour, a true delicacy to enjoy with the family on a festive day.

The pasqualina cake

Finally, tables never lack torta pasqualina, a savoury pie made of puff pastry, filled with a tasty mixture of spinach, ricotta cheese, hard-boiled eggs and grated cheese. The typical preparation involves making one or more layers of filling inside the puff pastry, with the layers of spinach and ricotta interspersed with whole hard-boiled eggs. This scheme creates a succulent and tasty dish, much loved for its combination of flavours and textures.

First courses: homemade pasta

An Easter tradition to be respected in the kitchen, not only in Tuscany but throughout Italy, is that of home-made pasta: whether pici, tortellini or lasagne, the first course on this special Sunday must be prepared by hand.
So what do you eat at Easter in Tuscany? The general preference is for pici, a pasta with a centuries-old tradition similar to very thick spaghetti, served with a thick and richly flavoured ragout, or tortelli mugellani, large tortelli made of fresh homemade pasta and filled with flavoured potatoes.

Second of lamb

The undisputed star of traditional Tuscan Easter main courses is lamb, baked or roasted, accompanied by aromatic herbs and the so-called pane ramerino, a traditional Tuscan bread with a crispy, golden crust and a soft, fragrant crumb. But when asked what people eat at Easter in Tuscany, the answer that everyone agrees on is buglione d'agnello, a lamb stew marinated in wine. Preparing it according to tradition requires time and precision, as well as an iron pot in which to cook it. The marinade must be left for at least eight hours to ensure that all the flavors are properly absorbed by the meat. Don't forget to serve lightly toasted Tuscan bread croutons as an accompaniment, directly on the plate. The word buglione means ‘a mixture of things’ in the Maremma dialect, precisely because the ingredients are cooked and served all together.

Easter in Tuscany: places to find traditional Easter foods

Knowing what the traditional Easter foods are in Tuscany is only the first step towards an immersive experience in the festive traditions of this magnificent region: to fully understand its beauty, it is essential to taste these traditional dishes in a typical Tuscan restaurant.

In this regard, there is no better place than La Taverna Restaurant, a characteristic Tuscan restaurant located in the old cellars of Castello Banfi, near Montalcino. It is furnished in traditional style, with fine wooden tables reminiscent of the wine barrels that once rested in those same rooms, exposed vaulted ceilings, and magnificent tapestries depicting the lush Tuscan countryside. An intimate and welcoming setting, perfect for an Easter lunch with the family featuring traditional dishes.

More refined but certainly no less welcoming is La Sala dei Grappoli Restaurant, in the shadow of the historic Castello Banfi, in a room with exposed wooden beams and walls decorated with superb golden grape clusters, where you can enjoy a truly luxurious food and wine experience.

Resort in Val d'Orcia in Tuscany

Trekking, tastings, unique experiences: rely on Castello Banfi Wine Resort for your stay in the Val d'Orcia.

Resort in Val d'Orcia: how to choose the right one?

The Val d'Orcia, UNESCO heritage, is dotted with hotels, hotels and resorts, being this a very popular tourist destination in every period of the year. For this reason, when choosing the resort in Val d'Orcia to stay in contact with nature, you must evaluate all the alternatives well, basing your choice on the distance from tourist attractions, amenities, activities and experiences that different facilities have to offer.
A holiday in Val d'Orcia, in a resort or in a B&B, is a rich experience: visitors can dedicate themselves to a very wide range of activities, lulled by the beauty of the timeless views.

Castello Banfi Wine Resort in Val d’Orcia

When you visit the Val d'Orcia, the resort must therefore be the right one, and Castello Banfi Wine Resort is the perfect place for your holiday in Tuscany whether you want to give yourself a few days of relaxation and well-being, You want to dedicate yourself to the many planned activities. in programma.
What distinguishes the Castello Banfi Wine Resort from other resorts in Val d'Orcia in Tuscany is the masterful combination of old-world environments and modern comfort, warm hospitality and meticulous attention to detail. This enchanting wine resort in the Val d'Orcia in Tuscany is a luxury oasis set in an authentic medieval village in the heart of the Val d'Orcia, offering a refined and exclusive retreat where relaxation becomes an art. Both the private spaces such as rooms and suites, and the common areas such as the Reading Room, the Pergola, the Wellness Room and the Pool are designed to pamper guests at any time of their day in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature.

Activities at the Resort in Val d'Orcia Castello Banfi Wine Resort

The Castello Banfi Wine Resort is the ideal choice for those looking for a haven of peace in which to savour every moment, but also for those who want to explore the Val d'Orcia and its beauties. For those who like to discover the hidden secrets of the territory, trekking is an exciting activity, giving the meeting with a generous and fairy-tale nature, but also the guided tours between vineyards and olive groves become moments of evocative that remain imprinted in the heart, under the wise and careful organization of our staff.

Trekking and Mountain Bike in Val d’Orcia

Gli amanti del lovers of trekking, cycling, and horseback riding will find in our resort in Val d'Orcia in Tuscany the perfect place to start for one or more days dedicated to unspoiled nature and discovering the wonders that this beautiful land has to offer. The Castello Banfi Wine Resort is just a few kilometres from the beginning of the Sentiero Brunello, a path that goes from Montalcino through the vineyards from which grapes are born a wine so precious and famous, and so deeply linked to its territory. Walking the sunny hills between rows of vines and olive trees , trekking lovers can admire breathtaking views and fairy-tale villages, or stop along the way for a tasting of wines and typical products in one of the local wineries. The route is about 8 km (easy level) and has a duration of 2/3 hours.
For those who prefer a more extensive exploration on a bike, our resort in Val d'Orcia organizes tours by Mountain Bike (brand Bianchi) or electric bike with departure from the resort itself. The tour winds through enchanting places for over 30 km30 km, rich in wildlife and landscape interest, which have made the Val d'Orcia a UNESCO heritage.

Helicopter flight over the Val d'Orcia

Every corner of the Val d'Orcia is a landscape worthy of being immortalized in a work of art, but the panorama that can be admired by helicopter over this region is a sublime spectacle, which leaves you breathless. Our resort in Val d'Orcia in Tuscany offers the possibility to fly over the surrounding area by helicopter, admiring from above the vineyards and lush hills, discovering hidden villages and wonders of nature, revealing new corners of paradise reserved for the privileged eyes of lucky travelers who book their exclusive helicopter tour. The experience also includes a a visit to the Cantine Banfi, a lunch at the characteristic Ristorante La Taverna or a dinner at the Ristorante Stellato La Sala dei Grappoli.

Tasting in the Val d'Orcia

In addition to the visit and tasting in the winery, the Castello Banfi Wine Resort offers the opportunity to discover another local treasure born from the land and symbol of the gastronomic wealth of this area of Tuscany:extra virgin olive oil. We organize tours and tastings at a renowned local oil mill, located just 15 minutes from our hotel in Val d'Orcia.
The experience, lasting about an hour and a half, will bring you into contact with a productive reality that combines the wisdom of the past and the most advanced technologies and produces genuine products that enchant the palate. The package includes a guided tour, tasting of 3 different olive oils produced here and a rich aperitif with cheese, honey, bruschetta and Montecucco wine.

The art of pairing food and wine

Enhancing the flavour of local products with the right wine pairing is truly a pleasure: discover the advice of Castello Banfi's experts

Food and wine pairing: what you need to knowFood and wine pairing: what you need to know

Pairing wine with food is considered a true art, the ultimate expression of gastronomic creativity, uniting two sensory worlds through a meeting of flavors, aromas and textures that come together in a symphony of gustatory delights. However, although subjectivity in the choice of wine plays a key role, there are certain rules on how to pair wine with food that should be followed to enhance not only the individual components, but also to enjoy the entire tasting experience: like an orchestra conductor, the sommelier or wine enthusiast carefully chooses the perfect companion for each dish, seeking balance and harmony. Here's what you need to know about pairing wines with food.

How to pair wines with food: general directions

In the complex labyrinth represented by the world of wines and their pairing with food, endless roads open up; some of them, however, are clearly recognizable and easily traversed if one does not want to make a mistake in pairing wine with food.
With the aperitifs we recommend sparkling wines or spumanti, while for appetizers one must take into account their type: cold cuts go well with different types of wine, but mainly white sparkling wines, dry, still and light reds are preferred, while for cheeses the pairing is rather complex and depends on the type of cheese. Generally speaking, with soft cheeses, white wines of medium structure are recommended, while with hard cheeses a full-bodied, red wine is recommended.
Regarding main courses, it is well known that full-bodied and intense reds go well with succulent meats, that fresh and vibrant whites dance with seafood and other fish dishes, and that aromatic sweet wines enhance desserts.

Three principles for food and wine pairing

But what are the principles that can be followed for pairing wines with food and which gave rise to these rules? The schools of thought are diverse but l’Associazione Italiana Sommelier (AIS), mainly uses the Metodo Mercadini, based on three general principles:

concordance
contrast
tradition

By following this method on how to pair wines with food, it is possible to create pleasant pairings that can enhance both the dish and the drink. The effectiveness of the Mercadini Method lies in oregrounding the sensations aroused by wine and food, by the tasting experience in general, but framing them analytically in the three levels of visual, olfactory and taste analysis.

Food and wine pairing by concordance

Pairing by concordance enhances harmony and balancecreating a symphony of flavors in perfect accord with each other. This principle, in fact, is based on finding affinities between the aromas, tastes and sensory characteristics of wine and food. The goal is to create a combination in which the aromatic and taste components of the food blend and complement those of the wine, mutually enhancing the overall sensory experience.
So, a full-bodied and elaborate wine will go well with equally complex dishes and foods with a strong and intense taste; on the contrary, for a dish with a delicate flavor, it will be necessary to match a wine that knows how to accompany and not cover, thus a light and not too structured wine.

Pairing food and wine by contrast

Wine pairing by contrastaccording to the Mercadini Method is an inviting culinary adventure that explores the nuances and complexities of flavors, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for the palate.
In fact, it is based on the idea of balancing opposing flavors between food and wine to create an intriguing taste experience by combining foods and wines that exhibit opposing taste characteristics, such as sweet-sour, fatty-sour or spicy-sweet. This principle of how to pair wines with food can lead to surprising combinations, such as a dry white wine paired with a cream cheese dish or a structured red wine with firm tannins paired with a sweet, rich dessert.

Food and wine pairing by tradition

The third principle of wine pairing is by traditionyou choose to serve a wine that falls within the culinary, and therefore geographical, tradition of the main course. This method takes advantage of the synergies and local culinary traditions that have developed over time, and is both the simplest and the most popular to follow.
The art of pairing wine and food by tradition is a tribute to the richness and diversity of Italy's culinary heritage. And Tuscany is one of the best places for a gastronomic experience of the highest quality, where raw materials and traditional recipes meet fine wines artfully bottled to encapsulate the full potential of carefully selected grapes.
A tasting experience to delve deeper into the topic of wine and food pairings is definitely a great way to go.

The Enoteca, a workshop of yesteryear located within the walls of the medieval castle of Poggio alle Mura near Montalcino, is the ideal place to be guided by expert sommeliers to taste the region's best wines and discover the best pairings with local food products.

For those who want to enjoy a complete taste experience, a true journey through the culinary symphony of Tuscany, the La Taverna Restaurant offers, a wide selection of wines, all to be paired with traditional dishes revisited in a modern key by our chefs.

What to give a wine lover

What to give to a wine lover: discover below many original ideas for the perfect gift

Discover the proposals of Castello Banfi Wine Resort.

10 gift ideas for wine lovers

When it comes to choosing what to give a wine lover, the goal is to surprise and delight the senses with gifts that capture the very essence of wine and the culture that revolves around it. For non-enthusiasts, the search for unique and memorable gifts might be complicated, but the world of wine offers a wide range of possibilities, ranging from the classic bottle to sommelier accessories, and even cellar visits or a food and wine experience. So here are 10 gift ideas for those who do not know what to give wine lovers.

1. Fine wine bottle

A bottle of fine wine is always the ideal choice when wondering what to give a wine lover: besides adding a valuable piece to his or her collection, the gift of a bottle can also be an opportunity to enjoy the gift together and accompany the special occasion with a toast.

2. Set of wine glasses

However, if you are not an expert or if you do not know the tastes of the person for whom you are looking for a gift, it can be complicated to buy the right bottle. That is why, if you are wondering what to give a wine drinker without being a connoisseur yourself, a gift idea that is always impressive is a set of wine goblets. The price range of wine goblets is very wide, so it is a gift that can easily fit any budget, but with the guarantee of always making a very welcome gift.

3. Decanter

Even with decanters there is a wide range of choice: from the more technological models, the so-called automatic decanters, which help to complete the wine breathing process in a short time, to real design objects, perfect to display in the dining room and to use even at the most formal dinners.

4. Wine accessories

In addition to glasses and decanters, there are also several other wine accessories that are indispensable for a connoisseur. Kit base generally include:
a fine corkscrew;
a capsule cutter;
a wine stopper;
a pourer;
a wine thermometer.
But when it comes to accessories for wine lovers, what to give as a gift depends solely on your imagination.

5. The wine cellar

Not every wine enthusiast has one in the home, but it is a tool you cannot do without: a small wine cellar. It is ideal for those who do not have a proper cellar or a room suitable for the preservation of the most valuable bottles, does not take up space and is stylish and designer.

6. Wine books

Wine books are also interesting and very welcome, whether they are tasting manuals or books on the history of wine or on wine pairings.

7. Wine-tasting course

Another interesting idea is a wine-tasting course: these courses can start from the basics, such as illustrating the choice of glass, serving temperature, what to do and what not to do when tasting a wine, or they can be real training courses, the first step into the fascinating world of sommeliers, which can turn a wine lover into a true connoisseur.

8. Overnight stay in a wine resort

There are also numerous wine-themed experiences to give a wine enthusiast. Among the most popular gifts for wine lovers is an overnight stay in a wine resort, such as the Castello Banfi Wine Resort, located near Montalcino, a charming medieval castle in the green hills of the Tuscan countryside.
The ancient stone walls, the majestic towers and battlements overlooking the fairytale landscape, but also the beautifully restored interiors and the places dedicated to relaxation and wellness, are a triumph of classical elegance and modern sophistication. But what makes the experience of staying at this wine resort truly extraordinary is its being entirely dedicated to relaxation and good wine.
Immersed in the unspoilt beauty of the Tuscan landscape, guests can stroll among the rows of lush vines, breathe in the fragrant air of ripe fruit and even observe, in the right season, the practice of grape harvesting.

9. Cellar visit

The winery visit, such as the one at Castello Banfi Wine Resort, is another wine-related experience not to be missed if you have wine-loving friends: in addition to a guided wine tasting, you can admire the entire wine production process of the Banfi winery, which has skilfully combined the winemaking traditions of the region with the most innovative technologies.
In addition to the winery proper, the Castello Banfi Wine Resort complex also includes the Enoteca, an evocative Tuscan wine shop, characterised by cross vaults and centuries-old stone walls, which houses a selection of labels representing the excellent wines of Tuscany and beyond.

10. Lunch in a restaurant with an excellent selection of wines

Finally, if you are still undecided about what to give a wine lover as a gift, there is the option of offer lunch or dinner at restaurants with an excellent selection of wines. At Castello Banfi Wine Resort you will find the La Sala dei Grappoli Restaurant (one Michelin Star), in the shadow of an authentic medieval castle, and the distinctive La Taverna Restaurant, located under the vaults of the castle's old cellars. Giving this experience to a wine lover means offering him not only an excellent selection of wines, but also typical Tuscan products prepared to perfection by first-class chefs.

Typical Tuscan foods: 7 delicacies

Discover typical Tuscan foods: the 7 gastronomic delicacies of the Tuscany region and where we recommend you eat them.

7 typical Tuscan foods to try

In the heart of lush Tuscany, a land that enchants with its fairy-tale landscapes and millenary history, hospitality is a sacred value, of which Castello Banfi Wine Resort has always been a spokesman. Here, the culture of hospitality finds its highest expression and visitors are welcomed with professionalism and warmth; but it is not only in hospitality that lies the soul of the Tuscanybut also in its most precious treasure: food.
A riot of authentic and genuine flavors, rooted in a centuries-old culinary tradition, makes the Tuscan gastronomic experience a journey for all the senses. To fully understand the beauty of this region, it is therefore essential to taste at least one of the 7 typical Tuscan foods that represent its essence.

The Fiorentina steak, a great classic

But what is the most famous food of Tuscany? The Florentine steak undoubtedly occupies first place in the collective imagination when it comes to typical Tuscan dishes, a first place certainly well deserved. Artfully cooked, this rib-eye steak hides tender meat under a golden, crispy crust. Generous in its portion size and bold in its flavor, it is the result of precise and careful cooking, but also of the finest ingredients, meat carefully selected from cattle raised in the green expanses of the region. We recommend accompanying it with a Brunello di Montalcino, which enhances the meat's aromas and reveals the complexity of traditional red wines.

Not only Fiorentina: here are what are the other delicacies of Tuscany

Here are what other Tuscan food specialties to try at least once in a lifetime.

Ribollita

Rightfully among the typical Tuscan foods is ribollita, an ancient peasant dish of fresh vegetables, legumes and stale bread that embodies the very essence of Tuscan tradition. This soup, which originated as a peasant recipe handed down from generation to generation, is now revisited with the use of zero-kilometer raw materials, but it retains its spirit. Simmered for hours, it is almost like a warm embrace for the palate, a kaleidoscope of flavors in which one recognizes the sweetness of the vegetables, the fullness of the legumes and the unmistakable aroma of the herbs. Accompanied by a Chianti Classico, its robust flavor combines with the intensity of Tuscan red wines.

Pappa al pomodoro

Pappa al pomodoro, one of Tuscany's signature dishes par excellence, embodies the elegance and simplicity of the region's culinary tradition: it is a symphony of authentic flavors and Mediterranean aromas. The red hues of ripe tomatoes blend with the gold of Tuscan extra virgin olive oil, while garlic and herbs lend a note of depth. The secret ingredient, stale Tuscan bread, transforms into a soft, creamy texture, enveloping the mouth in an embrace of pleasure.

Crostini with fegatini

And speaking of Tuscan breads and foods, one cannot fail to mention crostini with fegatini, a delicate preparation that combines chicken livers, crusty bread and a touch of herbs. Each bite releases an explosion of flavors, artfully encased in the enveloping creaminess of this distinctive dish.

Pici (or pinci as they are called in Montalcino) with meat sauce

Also unforgettable are the pici with wild boar ragout, a handmade pasta, similar to thick spaghetti, seasoned with a wild boar ragout with an intense and homemade flavor, but at the same time complex and fascinating.

Special Tuscan delicacies

A place of honor among the typical dishes of Tuscany also deserves the famous Lampredotto, a specialty made from veal tripe, rich in flavor and tender in texture. This cut of meat, carefully extracted from the stomach part of the animal, becomes the star of a dish that requires patience and skill in its preparation process. It represents a unique culinary experience for those who dare to venture into the less conventional delicacies that are nonetheless one of the quintessential Tuscan foods.
Finally, to answer exhaustively the question of what is the most famous and most consumed typical product of Tuscany even outside the region, excluding of course the wide selection of wines and staying on Tuscan foods, the answer is: cantucci with Vin Santo. These crisp, fragrant almond cookies, perfect when dipped in vin santo, are one of the most beloved desserts throughout the peninsula. The harmony between the sweetness of cantucci and the richness of wine creates a perfect conclusion to a Tuscan meal.

Typical Tuscan food at La Taverna Restaurant

For those who wish to fully immerse themselves in the centuries-old Tuscan culinary tradition, there is no better place than the La Taverna Restaurant. Located in the shadow of the Castello Banfi Wine Resort, this temple of taste offers a unique experience where typical Tuscan dishes are prepared with skill and passion using only the highest quality local raw materials.
Here, in a pleasant, rustic setting, you can consider whether to opt for a menu with a tasting trail or a la carte appetizers, first courses, main courses and desserts. La Taverna Restaurant is where Tuscan hospitality and culinary tradition come to life with every bite and every sip of wine.

Montalcino typical dishes: where to enjoy them

Here are Montalcino typical dishes, how to cook them and where to enjoy them in combination with quality wines from the area.

Montalcino typical dishes: what they are and where to taste them

The territory of Montalcino, the enchanting Tuscan village nestled in the hills of the Val d'Orcia, tells a story as old as its rich soil on which the finest vines grow, a narrative that is also reflected in the area's culinary and wine traditions.
The typical dishes of Montalcino are made of authentic flavours, reflecting a simple and traditional way of life, deeply rooted in the territory and its excellence. Each recipe is a culinary voyage of discovery of the region's typical products, and each village or small town often boasts its own personal reinterpretation of the recipes, making culinary experiences in Montalcino unique and varied.

What to eat in Val d'Orcia?

The Val d'Orcia, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is dotted with small villages nestled in a lush landscape. Each of them is the bearer of a local food and wine tradition that has always attracted tourists from all corners of the world. Whether you are talking about appetisers, first courses, main courses or desserts, the choice of what to eat in Val d'Orcia is wide.

Cold cuts and cheeses linked to the territory

Among the starters, an honourable mention must be reserved for Cinta Senese ham, with its unique and unmistakable flavour, similar to that of game, and its characteristic spicy scent, perfect in combination with Brunello di Montalcino.
Pecorino di Pienza is also one of the delicacies of the Val d'Orcia and one of the typical dishes of Montalcino: fresh or matured for ninety days in oak barrels, its strong taste is influenced by the aromatic herbs on which the sheep, reared in a semi-wild state, feed.

Traditional first courses

The typical first courses of Montalcino and Tuscany in general are renowned for their intense and concentrated taste, rich in the flavours and aromas of the territory, with seasonings based on game meat.
Among the most traditional first courses are the pici, a long, thick fresh pasta typical of the Val d'Orcia tradition, which go perfectly with various sauces (game, garlic and sauces) as they capture the essence of each preparation thanks to their porous surface that retains sauces and flavours.

Pici or Pinci

In the land of Brunello, pici are called “pinci”: pinci with breadcrumbs are one of Montalcino's most classic dishes to be enjoyed in local restaurants and taverns, and are proof that the creative spirit of the Tuscans succeeds in making even an apparently simple and 'poor' dish rich and tasty. In fact, to the traditional seasoning of garlic, oil and chilli pepper, crumbs of toasted or stale Tuscan bread are added, adding a pinch of delicacy and surprise to the dish.

Tortelli alla Mugellana

Much more elaborate are the tortelli alla Mugellana, one of the region's most popular Montalcino recipes, especially when accompanied by a bottle of Brunello di Montalcino. These particular tortelli, made with fresh pasta, are filled with potatoes flavoured with cheese, parsley and garlic, and go perfectly with rich meat sauces, such as wild boar ragout.

Main courses

Another great classic of Tuscan cuisine to enjoy in Montalcino is the peposo, a very tender stew immersed in a thick, spicy sauce with an ancient flavour, like that of tradition, that cooks slowly for almost three hours in a copper pan. Peposo is usually served with Tuscan bread and Brunello di Montalcino.
Also the stufato alla Sangiovannese is another typical Montalcino dish linked to the 'poor' and working-class tradition: this stew is prepared with different spices such as ginger, cloves and cinnamon, and every Montalcino family hands down from father to son its own perfect spice mix.

Traditional Sweets

Panforte, amaretti and ricciarelli are the most popular sweets in the region and are linked to local history and traditions. In fact, to trace the oldest recipe for panforte, once the exclusive prerogative of nobles and aristocrats, one has to go back in time to the year 1000.
The 'white' version currently enjoyed throughout the province of Siena dates back to Queen Margaret's visit to Siena in 1879, when the Sienese made a more delicate panforte covered in vanilla sugar.

Where to eat in Montalcino

This journey to discover the typical dishes and recipes of Montalcino cannot but end with a question: where to eat near Montalcino?

La Taverna

One of the most characteristic places to eat near Montalcino is the La Taverna Restaurant, located among the hills surrounding the charming Castello Banfi Wine Resort. The restaurant was designed in the ancient cellars of the medieval castle and furnished in traditional Tuscan style, with wooden tables, fine bottles on display and brick vaults, for a rustic and comfortable ambience.
The atmosphere one breathes is that of a cosy tavern of bygone days where one can enjoy in the company of friends and family the typical dishes of Montalcino accompanied by excellent Banfi wine.
The kitchen offers guests the traditional Montalcino and Tuscany dishes, including braised pork cheek at the Moscadello With pumpkin, polenta and jus of prunes or ravioli with porcini mushrooms from the Amiata area, with chickpea cream and Cinta Senese powder, using only fresh, genuine, km0 ingredients that enhance the authenticity of the flavours of the area and provide a food and wine experience to be tried at least once.

La Sala dei Grappoli

Having dinner at La Sala dei Grappoli Restaurant, still by Castello Banfi Wine Resort, is instead like embarking on a journey through the flavors of Tuscany, revisited by the chef Domenico Francone and his team. Local raw materials are artfully used to create seasonal menus that give guests an unforgettable experience, thanks in part to the finest selection of Banfi wines.
The restaurant has a refined and unique indoor dining room, with exposed wooden beams and walls frescoed with voluptuous green and gold grapes, and an outdoor terrace, in the shadow of the castle and overlooking the breathtaking landscape of the Tuscan hills.

Wine cellar tasting in Montalcino

Discover our wine shop and cellar, strategically located near Montalcino and enjoy an unforgettable wine tasting.

Wine tastings in wine cellars in Montalcino: where to go?

More and more tourists and wine enthusiasts are choosing the wineries of Montalcino for a tasting of the finest excellence of this unique territory. Wineries in Montalcino, in fact, are the perfect place to learn more about the world of wine from history to production techniques.
Food and wine tourism in recent years is not limited to simply tasting local products but complements the exploration of the area and its traditions. The charming village of Montalcino, nestled among the green and sunny hills of southern Tuscany, is the ideal destination for such an immersive experience.

Why is Montalcino the perfect place to learn about wine?

A visit to the wineries of Montalcino accompanied by a wine tasting cannot be said to be complete without a brief excursion into the history of this area, which has been deeply linked to wine production since the past.

Montalcino: land of wines since Etruscan times already

The vocation of the Montalcino area for wine production is as old as the town itself: in fact, numerous archaeological finds testify that already in Etruscan times the verdant hills surrounding the place where the town now stands were dedicated to the cultivation of vines and the production of excellent wines renowned throughout the peninsula.
But it was during the nineteenth century that, with the production of Brunello, Montalcino won the title of “home of wine,” thus becoming a favorite destination for connoisseurs and enthusiasts curious to discover the area's wineries and experience the tastings that each of them offers. Montalcino's wineries are in fact among the first to open their doors to visitors, becoming one of the first villages in Italy to promote wine tourism.

Unique territory and producers of excellence

For all those who wish to learn more about the world of wine, from its origins to the more technical aspects related to production, a tasting at one of Montalcino's wineries turns out to be the ideal choice.
In fact, this area, thanks to its special microclimate, makes it possible to produce wines of the highest quality, first and foremost the Brunello di Montalcino, the highest expression of the prince grape variety of these lands: Sangiovese

Wineries in Montalcino where to book a wine tasting

But where to taste Brunello di Montalcino and other local delicacies? Castello Banfi Wine Resort is the ideal place to make a tasting experiences in the territory of Montalcino. Located in the charming Poggio alle Mura, just a short walk from the center of Montalcino, this wonderful wine resort offers the opportunity to visit the vineyards and the Banfi winery and enjoy a truly unique tasting experience. Visiting the wineries near Montalcino for wine tastings will not only be an itinerary that will take you through the heady scents and the thousand flavors of this region, but a real journey into the world of wine production, where the knowledge of yesteryear is intertwined with the latest technologies, resulting in products of unparalleled excellence.

It begins with a tour of the vineyards

A visit to the vineyards is the first stop for those who decide to do a wine tasting near Montalcino. Walking through the rows of vines, you will have the opportunity to discover technical and historical trivia about the different grape varieties produced in Montalcino and the techniques that allow them to be transformed into the extraordinary wines that characterize this area and how wine is made.

Winery visits

At Castello Banfi Wine Resort the tour to the vineyards is accompanied by a visit to the winery, the beating heart of the Banfi winery, designed to preserve the richness of the grapes and their characteristics. The pride of our winery is the brand new winemaking area, which can be fully visited thanks to some comfortable and innovative architectural solutions, allowing to observe the whole winemaking process.
You will be accompanied by an expert guide, who will explain the different stages of wine production and the different tools used for production and aging. You will also have our experienced sommeliers at your side who will accompany you through the tasting experience, teaching you how to recognize a good wine by sight and smell, even before the palate.

How tastings are held at the Enoteca

L’Enoteca Banfi is the ideal place to taste a selection of various types of Brunello di Montalcino, accompanying each glass to the products, pairing them with typical products such as local pecorino cheese and Tuscan prosciutto. Just a few steps from the castle, the ambience recreates in every way a Tuscan workshop of yesteryear, with rustic floors and beamed ceilings. You can stroll among the elegant shelves of fine wood on which stand the marvels of local craftsmanship and Banfi's signature wines; you can taste local food and wine products, including the renowned Etruscan Balsamic Dressing and the Banfi grappas.
To meet the needs of all wine lovers, our wine shop organizes different tour routes, from the afternoon tour with tasting of four types of wine to the morning tour with a three- or four-course lunch, with wines chosen for pairing by our expert sommeliers, or even booking a private tour with a tour of the vineyards, winery and Balsameria, followed by a guided tasting and lunch at the La Taverna Restaurant.

Wine tourism in Italy: history and curiosities

Wine tourism is a form of tourism that focuses on wine and its production. Learn more about wine tourism in Italy and its history.

Enotourism: meaning and history of wine tourism in Italy

Wine tourism or wine tourism is a journey of discovery of the territories with a strong wine vocation, enriched by tastings of wines and local food and wine products, from guided tours of wineries and vineyards, and from encounters with local traditions and culture.
So, when one asks what is meant by wine tourism, it is important to understand that one is not just referring to the classic wine tasting at a wine bar, but to an immersive experience strongly linked to the territory that embraces the entire culture of wine and its production. Often, in fact, wineries are located in villages nestled among sun-kissed hillsides and rows of vines as far as the eye can see, in a fairytale landscape that acts as a backdrop to the tasting experience, becoming an integral part of it.

The most sought-after destinations for wine tourists

The most sought-after destinations for wine tourists are the areas of Tuscany renowned for their wine production, such as the Val d'Orcia or the Chianti areas. Here, thanks to the resourcefulness and feeling of hospitality and welcome that characterises the inhabitants of these areas, local wineries have breathed new life into small villages and medieval hamlets, turning them into museums, B&Bs or luxury resorts where one can dedicate oneself to relaxation, art, wellness and good wine.
The culture of wine is in fact linked to that of pleasure, wellness and entertainment, so when it comes to wine tourism, there is never a shortage of activities such as spas and thermal baths, creative activities such as exhibitions, laboratories and workshops dedicated to wine production, as well as experiences in contact with nature for the whole family, such as hiking, trekking and grape harvest tourism.

When wine tourism was born

Wine and tourism is a very old combination, yet the phenomenon of wine tourism in Italy is relatively recent: born in the early 1990 s on the initiative of a number of associations that gave rise to important events related to wine and tourism and still famous today, such as the events “Cantine Aperte” o “Calici sotto le stelle”. Thanks to these initiatives, over the past 30 years more than 15 million tourists have approached the world of wine production, its history and the traditions of the area.

Legislation on wine tourism

But by whom is wine tourism regulated? And what are the laws that regulate this form of tourism?

Legislation on wine tourism or wine tourism is very recent. In the early 2000s, the Wine Routes were created, i.e. protected routes along which there are 'natural, cultural and environmental values, vineyards and wineries of farms or associated companies open to the public' and which have opened the door to a new way of conceiving tourism linked to food and wine, and above all to the excellence of the territory.
On the other hand, the Guidelines on requirements and minimum quality standards for the exercise of wine tourism activities, strongly desired by all those working in the sector and approved during the State-Regions Conference, date back to March 2019. The Enotourism Decree then regulates winery visits, the invoicing of wine tourism activities, and the skills that staff working in this sector must have.

Wine tourism in Tuscany: where to go?

One of the most evocative places related to wine tourism is the Val d'Orcia, which, with its breathtaking landscapes, villages rich in history and a very strong wine vocation of the area, has always been a favourite destination for wine tourists.
In the heart of the Val d'Orcia, just a few kilometers from Montalcino, home of the Brunello, rises Castello Banfi Wine Resort, a luxury accommodation dedicated to wine tourism and wellness, an oasis in the Tuscan hills where you can treat yourself to a pleasant weekend away from city stress, in harmony with the slow pace of the countryside.

Wine tourism: not only wine tastings

The beating heart of wine tourism is certainly the tasting experiences of local wines and products that, with their perfect harmony of scents and flavors, mirror the excellence of the area. Castello Banfi Wine Resort organizes customized tasting experiences that will allow you to taste the flavors of the castle and travel by taste and smell among the Tuscany and the Piedmont, trying the best Banfi signature wines.
Moreover, in perfect accordance with the spirit of wine tourism, we offer the possibility of a unique visit through the places and excellences that characterise our winery, a tour that begins with a visit to the property and the vineyards, where the superb grapes that give life to the finest bottles grow, continues with a guided tour of the wine cellar, a place where the latest technologies meet the highest quality raw materials and traditions of yesteryear, and ends the experience with a lunch full of local products that will satisfy even the most demanding palates.