Italy is a postcard-perfect Europe. A land of romantic vineyards, medieval streets, and canals filled with gondolas. Yet Italy also means food. And lots of it. While their cuisine is famous worldwide, you can find the freshest and most authentic food in Tuscany. It’s pretty much a foodie’s paradise there. Here are my top must-try experiences for foodies in Tuscany:
Whether in the Renaissance jewel of Firenze (Florence) or the Chianti countryside, you can enjoy an authentic taste of real Italy. Some of Tuscany food specialties include:
Pecorino cheese
Extra virgin olive oil
Wild truffles
Red, White & dessert wines
HUNTING FOR TRUFFLES
Aided by a specially-trained dog and guide, you’ll hunt for wild truffles in the lush woods of Tuscany! Along the way, you’ll pass vineyard-draped hills and fruiting olive trees. After sniffing out truffles in Tuscany’s scenic countryside, you’ll enjoy a home-cooked meal at the guide’s family farm – feasting on pasta crowned in the truffles you just hunted! During this memorable day in the heart of Tuscany, you’ll feel like part of the family.
WINE TASTING WITH A VINEYARD OWNER
During your scenic drive through Tuscany, your English-speaking driver will unlock for you wineries that are usually closed to the public. In the secret stone cellars of the Chianti wine region, you’ll taste Chianti Classico (red) and Vernaccia (white) during your private tour. Tuscany foodies get the chance to meet the vineyard owners. What’s more, your driver for the day is a trained sommelier – able to bring to life the millennia of traditions behind wine-making in Tuscany.
LUNCH AT AN OLIVE FARM
Tuscany’s hillside produces Italy’s most prized extra virgin olive. The best way to taste Tuscan olive oil is to visit a family-run frantoio (olive mill) in the farm country. In the company of an Italian culinary guide, you’ll go behind the scenes at a scenic olive orchard. First, you’ll get to wander the silvery-green olive grows – passing under centuries-old trees.
Next, you’ll observe how fresh olives are pressed into liquid gold—extra virgin oil. (In the fall, you can even pick the olives!). Your visit will end with a guided tasting of Tuscany’s top olive oil – paired with local bread, cheeses, and salami.
Which Tuscany food experience do you crave? I can help you discover Italy’s hidden corners that guidebooks don’t even mention. Contact me to talk about your next big trip.