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Everyone knows that Chianti Classico is one of the world’s most famous wines; its history dating back to the early 1700s accounts for much of its fascination and appeal. There have been countless modifications over the centuries in this territory, as these wines that once incorporated white varietals can now be produced entirely from Sangiovese. Mo...

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New Orleans and Siena are, in many ways, spiritual sister cities. The Palio and Carnival are both important civic rituals that bring their communities together in celebration. Just as the foundation of Mardi Gras is religious, celebrated on the day before Ash Wednesday, the same is true for the Palio, as each race is run on a feast day honoring the...

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It was the year 1928 when a vineyard was planted in Cerreto Guidi, halfway between Florence and Pisa. Among these rows, today, we find Sangiovese as the protagonist, together with canaiolo and colorino, but also plants of trebbiano and malvasia, historically the grapes that gave life to Chianti. The first rare wine of this week is produced by Alber...

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Seven out of 10 bottles of Nobile di Montepulciano wine are sent to markets all over the world. The estimated production value is 65 million euros, and the total value, including real estate assets, vineyards and related industries in the area, is close to 1 billion euros. But, the wine that the scholar (and the highest ranking doctor at the Court...

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The technique of stucco, which is used to replace or recall more precious materials, has its origins in antiquity. However, another technique that derived from stucco: scagliola, understood as a mixture of selenite, water, glue and natural pigments, developed its own autonomy of expression from the 17th century, and became widespread in Europe thro...

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What is the value of the Tuscan brand? Eugenio Giani, president of the Tuscan Region, said, “The explanation is very clear, the Italian bottled water, Acqua Panna (S.Pellegrino Group, ed.), increased sales +12%, after replacing the very strong “Made in Italy” brand with the Tuscan brand on its label. We must think about what it is worth when it is...

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Argiano's wines have been known since the late-16th century, when the noble Pecci family built a lovely villa and adjoining cellar (which still serves as their headquarters today). Since 2013 the estate is owned by Brazilian entrepreneur André Esteves, who relaunched the range, entrusting production to Bernardino Sani and Francesco Monari. Now Argi...

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Never mind the season, it’s always a good time to have aperitivo with friends. A great way to end the day or the working week in good company, this quintessentially Italian habit has become pretty popular around the world, where it’s also known as “happy hour.” We Italians tend to enjoy our end-of-the-day drinks with finger food of all kinds, which...

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When I think about the day I got accepted to study abroad in Florence, I remember the excitement of the unknown in being in a foreign country: to finally have the chance to travel. The idea of going to Italy always seemed like a distant dream, almost out of reach. But when the opportunity presented itself, I took it. From the moment you land and st...

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Filled with color, grandeur and a playful sense of derision toward class divisions, Italian carnivals are uniquely celebratory. Most regions have more than a few to choose from, so this list isn't comprehensive, but here’s what to expect at some of this year’s showstoppers: Venice, Acireale, Viareggio, Cento, Fano and Crema. One of the oldest among...

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