Believe it or not, I was recommended this winery by a college professor. He told me if there’s one place I need to visit in Italy, it’s Tenuta Torciano. I abided by his advice and now I get to pass on this special secret to you.
Tenuta Torciano is a familY-owned winery in San Gimignano, Tuscany, about an hour’s drive from Florence. I really didn’t know what I was getting myself into, after all it was only 30 euros per person, which is affordable for a tasting.
When we arrived, we were greeted by a kind woman who would be our guide for the afternoon. She took us into a vast wine cellar, where there was a table set for two, with eight glasses at each setting.
She talked about the history of the winery, and proceeded to teach us how to taste the wine. Yes, most wineries will teach you to swirl, sniff, and spit the wine, but our guide showed us a new way to taste new flavors that you’ll need to visit to understand.
She paired the first three wines with a plate of meats and cheeses, as well as with homemade cold pressed olive oil and balsamic.
Then, she poured another three glasses to try with her grandmother’s veal truffle oil lasagna dish, which was truly the best food I ate in all of Europe.
Once we devoured the heavenly appetizer, she brought out our entree of chicken, potatoes, and spiced vegetables to try with a seventh wine. We consumed the last sweet wine by dipping biscotti into the glass for seven seconds so it soaked up the fruity flavor from the wine.
This tasting was private, delicious, and extremely romantic. You definitely get your money’s worth for your wine, food, and experience. Make sure that you have a designated driver as the alcohol portions are large! Enjoy.