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Although a renowned centre of arts and culture in its own right, Florence is a fantastic base from which to explore all the gastronomical and scenic richness that Tuscany has to offer. Within Tuscany, no region is as worth a visit as the winemaking heaven of Chianti. Many tourists never seize the opportunity to take a trip out of the city, so miss out on experiencing this beautiful spot of Italy. This is perhaps understandable when we consider that breathtaking scenery and the best vineyards are often in remote areas that are inaccessible to many. However, taking a Chianti wine tour is the perfect way to reach these areas without the hassle of organising travel arrangements. Allow us to give you a taste of what you can expect. Wonderful wines Visiting the Chianti hills means you will be able to sample not just any wine, but Chianti Classico. Chianti is made throughout wider Tuscany, but only the Classico is made in the region itself, making it truly worthy of the DOCG mark of excellence. This relatively small region is packed with some of the best vineyards in the world, a selection of which you can expect to visit on tours from Florence. One of the best wineries you can visit on a Chianti wine tour is the Villa Le Corti, one of the estates of the princely Corsini family. Not only can you sample their fantastic Classico in a small group, allowing you to have in-depth talks with the producers, but you can also marvel at the exquisite renaissance architecture of the villa and explore its ancient cellars and vaults. Stunning scenery Tours in the Chianti region are not just about the destination, but also the journey. When travelling between restaurants, cultural sites, and wineries, tourists are not simply going from A to B. All around you will see the beautiful and iconic rolling hills of Tuscany, with its medieval hilltop towns dotted around like islands in a verdant, green ocean of vines and gently swaying cypresses. An even better way to experience this journey would be to use a tour operator with a special off-road vehicle. You can experience the thrill and beauty of off-road driving through woodlands and olive groves unchanged since the times of the Roman Empire. With knowledgeable expert guides onboard, you will learn about all the sites along the way. The finest food Tuscany is just as renowned for its food. Classic Tuscan dishes like Pappardelle Cinghiale (wild boar pasta) prepared the authentic way are the envy of every gastronome. Most tours will stop for a hearty 3-course lunch at a typical restaurant like Rignana, included in the total price of the trip. Amazing art and architecture A Chianti wine tour is not just about wine, making it suitable to people of all tastes and interests. Many wineries also have grand villas that are the jewels of the Renaissance. Poggio Torselli, a villa with 600 years of fascinating history, is a popular feature on many tour itineraries. Even for a wine buff, having a tasting whilst surrounded by such beauty is a truly enriching experience. For the lover of wine, culture, food or beautiful landscapes, a Chianti wine tour can be the perfect day or half-day escape from the hustle and bustle of Florence. Sharing these experiences in a small group of like-minded travellers can forge memories that you will treasure for a lifetime. Author Plate Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable tours and excursions around Italy including the best Chianti wine tour from Florence. Whether you want to ride a Vintage Vespa, try the famous Chianti wine or get cooking with fresh local ingredients, Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.
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