Greve in Chianti

"The Sacred Grape The first monks of this abbey planted vineyards here back in the middle of the 11th century, and though the focus of the property has changed—it’s now privately owned, and home to a small hotel and restaurant—the winemaking tradition is still going strong, and is still based on the organic philosophy that’s been in play since day one. Guided tours and tastings are open to non–hotel guests, and include a visit to the historic cellars and the beautiful Renaissance gardens, along with a sampling of the estate-grown wines and olive oils. Cooking classes are also available, and from March to October you can enjoy a four-hour vineyard walk—including tours of the abbey and gardens, the frescoed hall, the aging cellars, and the winery, followed by a picnic lunch overlooking the Chianti hills."

"Lunch Stop on the Chianti Road If you find yourself on a road trip from Florence into the Tuscan countryside, take the Chianti road and stop for lunch or a stroll in Greve in Chianti. The town square often hosts a market—we were there on the flower market day—and houses a Museo de Vino. Many open-air restaurants line the square for a long Italian lunch of antipasto, primi platti, secondi platti, and dolce. Make sure your carafe is full at each course of the vino de la casa for your first taste of chianti in the countryside."