We just Love Chianti Classico and Street Parties in Tuscany Italy

There is hardly anything I like better on a weekend than window shopping at all of my favorite shops in Florence .  All those clothes, all those shoes, all those jewels – I mean between Gucci, Prada, Armani, Pierotucci, Ferragamo and even Tiffany’s – the selection is never ending, not to mention all the local designer boutiques hidden down those little side streets.

But if I had to choose one thing I like even better than shopping then that would be wine tasting!

All last week was I <3 Gallo Nero, and this Saturday instead of trolling the streets for good buys I put on my jeans and leather jacket and hopped on the back of my DH motorcycle to tour the winding roads of Chianti in search of the perfect wine tasting opportunity.

It didn’t take long for us to glide into the hill top town of Lamole, just outside of Greve in Chianti, where they were holding the 11th annual presentation of wines made in the hills of this specific geographical region.  We had gone last year – and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves – so we figured we couldn’t go wrong a second time!

This year we decided to eat at the food stand located next to the wine display instead of eating at the restaurant.  Not only was the food reasonably priced but it was quick and there were these lovely little tables set up in the square.  The weather was perfect for sitting outside and enjoying the atmosphere of this quaint little town.  The added plus:  we could eat our food along with our wine tasting.  All we needed to do was purchase one of their signature wine glasses where they have etched in I profumi di Lamole (which also make nice souvenirs) and then present ourself at one of the stands to get a little speech about the wine and, of course, a taste.

What I like best about this little street party is it’s size!  Many times these types of events get way too many people and, at least for me, it dampens my enthusiasm.  We were there on Saturday at lunch time there were NO long waits and NO body pushing to get their glass filled.  We were able to talk to all of the producers – there were 7 of them – and taste all of the wines (IGT, Chianiti Classico, Reserva and more).  It was a tough job but one we undertook with dedication.

Not only was there wine, vin santo (a delicious sweet wine) and grappa (a very strong liquor) but there were also olive oil samples (YUM!)  Another thing that is a plus is the price – it was only 6 Euro to buy the glass with unlimited tastings (unless of course the producer thought you had a little too much   We also split a portion of vegetable lasagna (5 Euro) and a plate of typical  cold cuts and cheeses.  Nice special touch, they used all ecological plates and silverware (everything could be dumped in the compost!)