Taste of Chianti: Tuscan Cheese, Wine and Lunch from Florence

Get a true taste of Italy's famous Chianti region on this full-day wine and food tour departing from Florence. Led by a guide, travel through the Tuscan hills by a 4x4 off-road vehicle, stopping to visit a wine estate and historic villa, and a cellar specializing in bottles of Chianti Classico. Sample the finest specialties at each stop, and save room for a 3-course meal in the Chianti countryside before making the return trip to Florence. Meet your guide in central Florence and hop aboard an air-conditioned, 4x4 minibus. Watch the city streets transform into the rolling hillside of Chianti, lined with vineyards and olive groves. Your first stop of the day is at a winery belonging to one of the most prominent Italian families. Taste three wines paired with cheese and two olive oils, and enjoy a guided tour of the historic wine cellars. Travel to the olivemill through the villa's underground tunnels, as well as to the garden. Afterward, head to a Tuscan restaurant and settle down for a 3-course meal, including regional specialties such as two different types of fresh pasta and two glasses of fine Chianti wine. (See the Itinerary for a sample menu). Continue to the charming town of Greve-in-Chianti, where the Chianti Classico wine festival is held each year. Pick up a selection of typical salumi (cured meats) from one of Italy’s most famous butchers to enjoy later at the second winery. Enjoy the last of your afternoon at a small, award-winning winery that specializes in Chianti Classico wine. Hear about the winemaking process while sipping and swirling delicious varietals. Your tour will conclude with a ride back to Florence.