From heady tagliatelle dripping in black truffles to renowned cuts of butter-soft beef like Bistecca Fiorentina, Tuscany is a gourmand’s dream getaway. Rolling vine-striped hills reveal some of Italy’s finest wines - from Chianti to the “noble” wines of Montepulciano, the Super Tuscans of Bolgheri and the Maremma - the region reads like sommelier’s handbook. The perfect pairing for the simple yet sophisticated Tuscan cuisine, centred on the quality of local ingredients that overflow from medieval hilltop villages. Whether you’re dining in a traditional trattoria overlooking cypress-lined olive groves or enjoying the more refined gastronomy of the region’s Renaissance cities, it’s this abundance of artisanal produce that make Tuscany the quintessence of Italian indulgence. Here’s our epicurean’s guide to tasting your way through Tuscany - Buon Appetito!
Edge Eats...
1. Da Delfina
Celebrate classic Tuscan cuisine just a few miles west of Florence. Delfina Cioni has perfected an elegant spin on home cooking, a culinary legacy continued by her son. Feast al fresco on Coniglio con olive e pignoli (rabbit sautéed with olives and pine nuts - the house speciality) while enjoying views out over the valley to Buontalenti's Medici villa.
2. Le Chiavi d’Oro
Modern interiors belie a rich culinary heritage in this central Arezzo restaurant. Take a prime people-watching spot on the terrace and allow Chef Francesco Stilo to delight you with classics such as wild boar medallions with glazed chestnuts.
3. Il Falconiere
Epitomise Italian elegance in this family-owned estate just 30 minutes from Arezzo below the ancient walls of Cortona. Owned and run by the Baracchi winery, expect a menu influenced by over 150 years of winemaking expertise - all enjoyed on the panoramic terrace with views of the Valdichiana Valley below.
4. Da Caino
For Michelin-starred dining in Montemerano, head to Da Caino. Originally a family affair serving up hearty Italian fare, critically acclaimed chef Valeria Piccini and husband Maurizio have transformed the dishes into something of sheer sophistication, yet without compromising the simplicity and integrity of the ingredients.
Edge Drinks...
1. Castello Di Ama
Sample a glass of the Castello di Ama Chianti Classico in the sumptuous surrounds of this lovingly renovated 12th Century castle. Enjoy world-renowned artworks and contemporary installations, but be sure to book in advance - tastings by private appointment only.
2. Castello Banfi
Famous for its award-winning Brunellos and merlots this family-owned estate in Brunello di Montalcino is set in 7,000 spectacular acres - so be sure to leave enough time to soak in the vine-drenched views.
3. Barone Ricasoli
The birthplace of Chianti itself, Ricasoli is Italy’s oldest winery with almost 1,000 years of winemaking expertise behind it. Explore the true essence of Chianti Classico with a tour of the expansive cellars and grounds, including the formidable Brolio Castle, followed by a private tasting.
4. Avignonesi
With an award-winning Merlot and a stunning selection of reds, the Avignon's winery in the village of Valiano near Montepulciano is well worth a visit. Explore ancient 16th Century wine cellars, and be sure to finish with their ‘Wine Lover’s Lunch’, an outstanding four-course meal in the elegant Foresteria.
Search Villas