MAY 14th-21st 2011
Join us for a true Tuscan wine and food immersion experience. Your trip includes a wine education intensive, guided winery tour, an amazing cooking class with a local award-winning chef and various fun-filled meals. Villa Montecastelli is a picturesque and unique setting. The entire property was rebuilt by hand using the original stone utilizing historical masonry techniques. It sits high on a hill with breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside. It features an organic olive orchard, home raised pigs, chicken coop and extensive vegetable & herb garden. Your week long stay at Montecastelli will be complimented by the knowledge of owner Jens Schmidt- a renowned importer of Italian wines to the United States. His in-depth understanding of the many wines of Italy as well as an intimate connection with the locals of the region, provide a true “insider’s touch” to your vacation. Cate and Brooke will be there making sure you have everything you need for a memorable trip and act as your ambassadors into this famed region of Italy. We look forward to seeing you in Tuscany!
ITINERARY
ITINERARY
Saturday, May 14th
- Arrival in Italy, transfer to the Villa
- Welcome Prosecco snack
- Welcome dinner at Casalta Ristorante
Sunday, May 15th
- Breakfast & orientation
- Free day (Tour Siena?)
- Dinner on your own
Monday, May 16th
- Breakfast
- Wine Class: “Indigenous varietals of Italy” (4 hour class/tasting with Jens)
- Late light lunch at villa- night on your own
Tuesday, May 17th
- Breakfast
- free day- (possible Florence visit. Uffizi, market, wine bars, cafés etc)
Wednesday, May 18th
- Breakfast
- Guided tour of Montalcino wine country- two/three winery visits, light lunch at ‘Osticcio’- evening free
Thursday, May 19th
- Breakfast
- Cooking Class: “Avanti Tutti!”
Antipasti preparations with Lazarro.
- evening free
Friday, May 20th
- Breakfast
- free day (Tour San Gimignano?)
- Dinner: Pizza night at Montecastelli!
Saturday, May 21st
- Breakfast & departure
Couple: $6,200.00
Single: $3,500
Booking conditions:
Half of payment needed to hold spot. Balance paid three weeks prior to departure date. Cancellations permitted 8 weeks prior to departure for full refund. Thereafter, 50% will be returned.