Wine & Food Adventures in Italy!

Chianti Classico is a fascinating place, rich with culture, nature and typical products. The luscious, rolling chain of Chianti hills that straddle the countryside of Florence and Siena, have characterized this area since the beginning of time. From Greve, Panzano, Gaiole, Radda and Castellina in Chiant to Siena.

The history of Chianti has always been deeply linked to the wines and other first-rate products, making it the perfect destination for a journey through traditional Tuscan food and wine. The towns in the area make up the production zone of world-renowned Chianti DOCG red wine. The Sangiovese vineyards, at the heart of Chianti Classico, stretch over the hills of this territory, leaving space here and there for sheltered towns and villages whose streets emit the aromas of the nearby wine cellars.

The best way to not miss out on anything in the region is to travel the Chiantigiana (SR #222), adored by motorists, cyclists and hikers, linking Florence to Siena. Stopping along the way means seeing must-see villages like Greve and Panzano, with their respective piazzas, Castellina and its fortress that houses the archaeological museum, and many more typical Tuscan parishes, like Montefioralle and Radda.

What better place to experience the food and wine of the most popular wine region of Italy?

Winery Visits

Chianti Classico DOCG red wine is made from 80% Sangiovese red grapes and other local red grapes such as Canaiolo, Colorino, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Minimum required maturation for the Riserva (the top version) is 24 months, including three months of bottle refining. Chianti Classico Gran Selezione is made exclusively from a winery’s own grapes grown in its finest vineyards according to strict regulations that make it a truly premium wine.

Vinsanto del Chianti Classico DOC is produced with white Malvasia and Trebbiano grapes that have been partially dried before pressing. It is a dessert wine of fine flavors excellent with sweets or pungent cheeses.

Chianti Classico DOP Olive Oil is characterized by a good fruity flavour, with notes of raw artichoke, freshly cut grass and a delectably spicy aftertaste. The Chianti Classico district is a zone of strong culinary traditions that have incorporated the culture of farmhouse cooking, the nobility of Chianina beef and the great variety of deli meats made from pork, Cinta Senese pigs and boar.

Cold cuts are comprised of Tuscan ham, soprassata, salami and finocchiona (salami seasoned with fennel seeds). The native pig breed, Cinta Senese, is highly prized.

The wineries of Chianti Classico are available to visit most weekdays. Always call before visiting.

Chef Services

Imagine coming back to your villa after a day’s sightseeing to a lovely catered lunch or dinner! Chef services are available upon request for any size group. Just set the table, open some wine and enjoy your meal.

Chef services include meals prepared and brought piping hot or prepared in your own kitchen while you wait.

Cooking Classes

Cooking classes are available for either lunch or dinner. Guests may chose a menu or learn to cook something new with a seasoned chef or cook.

"Super helpful advice helped us go places we wouldn’t have gone otherwise and find experiences we will cherish forever. I can’t recommend StayItalia and Sammie highly enough for people wanting an informed and authentic view of Italy!"

Peter C.
PRIMA Executive Chef/Owner
Walnut Creek, CA