Memories of Chianti

Dreaming of Tuscany comes easy, the rolling vineyards dripping with luscious grapes at harvest time. The silvery green olive groves are forever begging you for a wander through their sweet smelling pastures. Tuscany offers many, some of the most scrumptious gastronomy in the world. Italian cuisine is created on the philosophy of keeping it effortless, fresh, perfectly prepared, and always tempting. Let us not forget the lovely and very passionate Italian people, constantly with a glimmer in their eye and a smile on their faces. You are family when you come to visit. Get ready to experience the birthplace of the beloved Chianti wines and the Super Tuscan wines, a destination like no other, picture perfect Tuscany. Discover the original four Chianti villages in the heart of Tuscany, Gaiole, Radda, Castellina and Greve. These small villages will capture your soul and incite you to visit and explore.

Gaiole In Chianti

Enchanting comes to mind when you walk the cobblestone streets of Gaiole in Chianti. Flower boxes hanging from the window sills overflow with bursting colours. With a population of just over 2500 this sleepy village offers a quiet solace for anyone looking for peace and quiet. The shops feature some of the best wine in the world; Chianti Classico. Browse through the various shops offering beautiful pottery and yummy homemade specialties. Recently voted by Forbes Magazine as" Europe's Most Idyllic Places to Live", the locals are surprised. This is where they live, work and play, just a simple place they call home. Visitors wanting a true Tuscan feel must experience Castello Di Meleto, a 900 year old castle steeped in history and intrigue, a unique piece of heaven just outside Gaiole. Surrounded with vineyards and olive groves you will be inspired and dazzled-(www.castellomeleto.it). Your local hosts; Penny, Gabriella, Frederica and Viola will welcome you with a smile; their expertise will create an unforgettable experience. One other castle which holds ages of history is the Brolio Castle. Be sure to take a tour of this mystical place. It offers you some of the best views of the region from its high walls. It is home to the creator of the Chianti blend, Bettino Ricasoli (-www.ricasoli.it). Just outside Gaiole enjoy the flaming spaghetti or Florentine steak at one of the best restaurants in the Chianti area; "Le Contrade". Chef Sylvan's creative flair and attention to authentic ingredients and dishes attracts "foodies", from all over the world- reservations are a must. (www.ristorantichianti.it). For a more rustic Tuscan meal of grilled meats and vegetables you must try out Osteria Le Braci- reservations again a must (www.sandonatoinperano.it).

Radda in Chianti

Only a few kilometres from Gaiole, Radda is one of the oldest villages in Chianti dating back to Etruscan times in the 6^th century BC later taken over by the Romans. The centre of town featuring the town hall, reconstructed in the 1700 after being destroyed in 1478. You can observe the coats of arms from the various families covering the outside facade of the building, some dating back to the 15^th centuries. As you walk up the main street you pass ivy-covered walls of stone, shutters of different colors cover some of the windows. It is wash day, multi colored clothing hang from the window sills adding oddly to the quaintness of the village.

This stunning little village includes a number of restaurants, (www ristorantelevigne.it), bars, two first-class hotels, small boutiques selling linens, wine, ceramics, terracotta and unique delectable's. If you love shoes be sure to also check out the Pratesi shoe outlet, incredible deals. You are in the Chianti wine region. There are many "Enotecas" offering wine tastings. This is also the region of the black rooster, "Gallo Nero", and he is everywhere in Chianti. The legend dates back 700 years and will ultimately determine the border. To solve a border dispute between the Florentines and the Sienese that had resulted in many wars the church decided that a rider from each city would race to a spot to determine the boundary of the city states. The Florentines heard the Sienese had the best horse and rider so they decided to cheat. Riders would leave when the rooster crowed at dawn so the Florentines passed by the rooster with candles to fool him, he crowed and off they went. The Sienese heard about the cheating and went to war again. Nobody blamed the Florentines they blamed the rooster! So you see him as black on the Chianti labels. And recalls the rivalry of Siena and Florence.

Whenever we go to Radda we are always sure to check out the local Marcelleria (grocery shop) a family run business offering a wonderful array of fresh meats, wild boar sausages and salami, local cheeses, breads and of course, wine. Radda offers the perfect place to gather up the local delectable's, setting up a picnic spot and taking in all the fascination of the area with the astounding views.

Castellina in Chianti

This striking village sits high on a Tuscan hill, surrounded by her lovely terraced vineyards and olive groves. The air is sweet. A 15^th century fortress overlooks the city, keeping watch over the city hall and an Etruscan museum, housing some incredible local finds. Take time to stroll along the main street. A friendly Tuscan village, market day is Saturday morning. This is time to mingle amongst the locals, enjoy a wild boar sandwich, and salty olive. There are some wonderful deals to be had. Be sure to watch for a local herbal farmer who shares his unique combinations of organic dried herbs in easy to travel little jars. There are many shops offering a wide range of goods made from the superbly grained olive woods. Do not miss walking along the Via delle Volte behind the main street, here is where the world renowned photographer "Andrea Rontini" features his astonishing works of art (www.andrearontini.it) capturing the glorious Tuscany we love.

Greve in Chianti

This picturesque small town is named after the river that runs through it, Val di Greve. Greve is home to the Franciscan monastery dating back to the 15^th century. This little town was also home to the famous explorer who discovered the New York harbour,"Verranzzano". His statue dominates the triangular main piazza of Giacomo Matteotti. This is the place of the original markets dating back 500 years. The main piazza is surrounded by charming medieval buildings, walking from shop to shop under the covered porticos you are bound to find some special delights. The ceramic shops will impress and enthuse you with their uniqueness and traditional take on Tuscan ware (www.ceramica-geometrie.com). This is also the home to one of the oldest butcher shops offering cinghiale (wild boar) and many other Tuscan delicacies, the Macelleria Falorni. Drop in and have the shop make you a custom sandwich with their fresh breads and mouthwatering cheeses. Last, but certainly not least, uncork a magnificent bottle of Chianti and breathe in its rich aromas and tastes. This is what Tuscany is all about! Life continues....

Savor the lovely Chianti villages. Tuscany has worked so hard to create some of the best culinary and wine delights of the world. One o f the most gorgeous places on earth, Chianti region has so much to offer, always leaving you yearning to return.... (www.turismo.intoscana.it).