My Tuscan Weekend - Day 3 Trequanda

At 8:00am Sunday morning we dragged our bags down the stairs, grabbed some light breakfast, and checked out of the hotel.  Two nights with a shower that was actually hot and a mattress that wasn't a rock was heaven, but we were excited to top off our Tuscan adventure.

Our last day in Tuscany was spent at the Donatella Cinelli Colombini vineyard in Trequanda.  Apparently when Mrs. Donatella decided to open the vineyard, she went to the Siena University to find a Winemaster.  The dean told her all of the men were spoken for, but she could have any of the women.  Well, Mrs. Donatella wasn't happy too happy to hear that, so she hired an all female staff.  They are up-and-coming stars in a traditionally male-dominated field.

When we arrived, we were greeted by a bouncing ball of golden fur.  Felix is one of the many fluffy residents of the vineyard along with a few other dogs and a handful of cats.  Our host lead us around on a quick tour of the estate.  Rolling hills, beautiful gardens, and  deserted vines, all make up the perfect Italian countryside image.  We got to see the wine-making process from start to finish, and then sat down in the historic brewery for tasting.

I don't drink.  I'm not saying alcohol is bad or wrong.  I know that in the right amount, with the right people, and at the right time, it can compliment life's journey.  That being said, I decided wine tasting in Tuscany would not fundamentally oppose my philosophy and would be a positive part of my Italian experience.  The first wine was the vineyard's specialty, Chianti Superiore 2008.  The second was Brunello di Montalcino, the "Best Brunello 2004" award winner.  I can understand growing to appreciate it, but it is definitely an acquired taste.


After tasting, we had a traditional pasta making lesson, flour volcano and all!  I can't wait to try it myself...maybe back in the US...away from the risk of being shamed by the locals.

Finally, we sat down for an amazing, traditional four course Tuscan meal.  It was the best food I've had so far!  However, two of the courses were eerily familiar.  Antipasto was a piece of Bruschetta, and sliced cheese and meats.  Next was a pasta of long, flat noodles in a red sauce with ground beef, almost identical to our family tradition "Pattironi" back home.  The third course was roasted chicken and rosemary potatoes (also identical to mom's back home).  The meal was finished with a wonderful apricot tart.  Mmm!

The last hour of our trip was spent wandering the beautiful vineyard grounds taking in the breathtaking countryside.  The perfect end to an inedible weekend!

See more of my Trequanda photos HERE!