Tuscany, famous for its landscapes and cuisine, makes a beautifully scenic holiday destination. The rolling hills are blanketed in vineyards as well as medieval towers and small stone villages.
The vineyards are often on hillsides, where they are exposed to a good amount of sun. The area's agriculture, with its grapes and olive groves, still contributes to a portion of the region's economy. Tuscany is home to the world famous Chianti wine, a red blend using predominantly Sangiovese grape, that was first created in the 19th century. Though several sub-zones produce a variation of the blend it is only the wine produced in the Chianti Classico area, where the wine originated, that can boast the iconic black rooster seal.
Amongst the beautiful countryside is the small village of Stigliano. Economic growth began in this area around the 13th century; the monks from a monastery in nearby Torri instigated their own agricultural revolution, draining the marshes and introducing water mills along the river Merse just to the south of the village, and consequently increased development there. La Bottega di Stigliano is an organic restaurant and food shop. All of its organic dishes are freshly prepared, their goal being to emphasise the important link between what we consume and the environment in which we live. Their dishes stay true to the Tuscan culture and the chef there hosts workshops for all ages to support the idea of consumption and production of local food.
The visitors to the nearby holiday Palazzo take part in a tutoring session with the chef on Thursday mornings on how to create their own pasta. He teaches them how to make it in the morning, and they return in the evening to sample what they have managed to create together. It's one of the restaurant's most popular activities; good for the business but also really good fun. To find out how to stay at Stigliano yourself follow the link below.
