Tuscany – a paradise for connoisseurs

Tuscany is one of Italy’s most fascinating regions, which not only enchants with its breathtaking landscape of rolling hills, cypress-lined avenues and historic towns, but is also a world-famous wine and culinary centre. The region’s rich history, deep-rooted wine-growing tradition and unrivalled Tuscan cuisine make it a Mecca for connoisseurs from all over the world.

History and cultural significance

The history of Tuscany dates back to the time of the Etruscans, who settled here as early as the 8th century BC and left the first traces of viticulture. The Roman Empire later left its mark on the region, but the true cultural heyday came with the Renaissance. Tuscany is considered the birthplace of this cultural movement and produced world-famous artists and thinkers such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo and Dante. The city of Florence in particular, the capital of the region, played a central role as a centre of art and science.

Tuscany as a wine region

Tuscany is one of the most renowned wine-growing regions in the world and is particularly famous for its Sangiovese-based wines. The versatility of the climate and soils, combined with the centuries of experience of the winegrowers, ensure outstanding wines with a unique character.

Famous wine regions of Tuscany:

• Chianti Classico – Probably the best-known Tuscan wine, made from at least 80% Sangiovese.

• Brunello di Montalcino – A powerful, long-lasting red wine containing 100% Sangiovese Grosso.

• Vino Nobile di Montepulciano – An elegant red wine with a fine structure and complex flavours.

• Bolgheri – home of the legendary ‘Supertuscans’, powerful wines with international grape varieties.

• Vernaccia di San Gimignano – A refreshing, mineral white wine with a long tradition.

Culinary treasures of Tuscany

Tuscan cuisine is rustic, down-to-earth and characterised by high-quality, local ingredients. It is characterised by simple but aromatic dishes that are often refined with natural spices and the best olive oil.

Typical dishes from Tuscany:

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina – The legendary Florentine steak from Chianina beef, grilled over an open flame.

• Pappa al Pomodoro – A thick tomato bread soup that combines the best of regional ingredients.

• Pappardelle al Cinghiale – Fresh tagliatelle with a savoury wild boar ragout.

• Ribollita – A savoury vegetable soup with beans, kale and stale bread.

• Cantuccini with Vin Santo – The perfect Tuscan dessert: crunchy almond biscuits dipped in sweet dessert wine.

The connection between food and wine

In Tuscany, food and wine form a perfect symbiosis. The Sangiovese wines with their lively acidity and structure harmonise perfectly with the hearty dishes of the region. The mineral white wines such as Vernaccia di San Gimignano offer a wonderful freshness to light starters and fish dishes.

The Tuscan way of life, ‘La Dolce Vita’, is best experienced over a cosy meal with regional specialities and a good glass of wine.