A Guide to Chianti

The area stretching between Florence and Siena can arguably be considered as a European paradise. The landscape has been used repeatedly by artists due to its radiating warmth. The olive grove and vineyard covered rolling hills which are an intrinsic part of the landscape are also the source of the much admired olive oil and world famous red wine.

This region adds not only to the reputation of the natural Tuscan environment but also to the Tuscan food. The regions delicacies range from wild mushrooms which accompany the exotic meats of wild boar, pigeon and quail, to the cold meats: Chianina beef and Cinta Sienese pork. The Chianti region is dotted with numerous medieval towns and villages with their castles, villas and old mills.

The area hosts many wine festivals, markets and events in the castles, however the most famous event is the Siena horse race, the ‘Palio’. The symbol of Florence, the blue-violet iris, can also be found growing wild in this region of patchwork meadows and fields.