Wine & Local Flavours · Walking distance
Chianti Classico is one of the world's most famous red wines, and these hills are its home. Rows of Sangiovese stretch between Florence and Siena, broken by olive groves, cypress trees and medieval villages. Staying here gives you easy access to historic wineries, guided tastings and producers who love sharing the story of their land.
Chianti Classico DOCG, recognisable by the Black Rooster on its label, comes from the historic area around Greve, Castellina, Radda and Gaiole in Chianti. Made mainly from Sangiovese grapes, at least 80%, it follows strict production rules. The result is a wine full of character, with firm tannins, cherry and spice aromas, and an acidity that pairs beautifully with Tuscan food.
💡 Best time to visit
The grape harvest, between September and October, is a particularly atmospheric time to visit wineries. The hills turn red and orange, the air carries the scent of grape must, and life follows the rhythm of the harvest. Many wineries offer special experiences at this time of year.
The area is dotted with wineries welcoming visitors for tastings, often paired with local food. Some are large historic estates with established visitor programmes; others are small artisan producers where the owner pours the wine and tells you their story.
Alongside wine, extra virgin olive oil is one of the area's signature products. Frantoio, Moraiolo and Leccino olives grow on the same hills as the vineyards, producing a fruity oil with a gently peppery finish. The harvest takes place in November: visiting an olive mill while it is pressing is a memorable sensory experience.
Many wineries offer more than tastings: sunrise walks through the vineyards, picnics among the vines, food and wine pairing classes, and hands-on harvesting in autumn. Ask when you book; we will be happy to help you arrange an experience.
"Wine is the poetry of the earth. Here in Chianti, the land has been telling its story for centuries."