Badia A Coltibuono: A Glimpse into the Finest Wine and Olive Oil in Tuscany
Are you a wine or olive oil enthusiast? Do you love to travel and discover new gems to add to your palate and bucket list? Then, you must not miss visiting Badia A Coltibuono!
Nestled in the picturesque Tuscan hills just an hour away from Florence, Badia A Coltibuono is a 1000-year old estate that produces some of the finest wine and olive oil products in the region. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what makes this place a must-visit destination for all those who want to indulge in the delights of Tuscany’s culinary scene.
A BRIEF HISTORY
Badia A Coltibuono, meaning Abbey of good harvest, was founded in the 11th century by the Vallombrosan monks. The monastic community played a significant role in the development of the rural economy in Tuscany, and the abbey was among the wealthiest and most influential in the region.
Today, the estate is owned by the famous Stucchi Prinetti family who have been dedicated to preserving the tradition and quality of the products that Badia A Coltibuono is renowned for.
THE WINE
Badia A Coltibuono’s vineyards cover 74 hectares, primarily in the Chianti Classico and Chianti Colli Senesi regions. The soil and climate in these areas are ideal for growing Sangiovese grapes, which are the foundation of the estate’s wine production.
Their Chianti Classico Riserva has won numerous awards and is considered as one of the best in the region. It is a complex red wine with notes of cherries, savory spices, and rich tannins.
The estate also produces a delightful range of white and dessert wines such as the Cancelli, Bianco, and Vin Santo.
If you want to explore further, you can join one of their guided tours and tastings that will take you through the vineyards, cellars, and tasting rooms.
THE OLIVE OIL
In addition to its wine, Badia A Coltibuono is also renowned for its extra-virgin olive oil. With more than 3000 olive trees, the estate produces an excellent range of olive oil that has won many awards and accolades.
The olives are harvested by hand and are carefully processed within a few hours to preserve their fragrance, taste, and nutritional properties. The result is a green, extra-virgin, cold-pressed oil with a fruity, slightly bitter taste, and a peppery finish that pairs well with any dish.
Among their range of olive oil products, you can find the classic “Primocolle” and the organic “Abbey Selection,” which is made exclusively from olives harvested from the estate’s century-old trees.
EXPERIENCE TUSCAN CUISINE
At Badia A Coltibuono, you don’t just taste the products but immerse yourself in the Tuscan culinary culture. The estate offers various cooking classes, workshops, and events where you can learn how to make traditional Tuscan dishes using the estate’s wine and olive oil.
You can also dine at the estate’s restaurant, which serves a seasonal, farm-to-table menu that showcases the best of the region’s cuisine. From homemade pasta to grilled meats and seasonal vegetables, each dish is a feast for the senses that harmoniously pairs with the wines and olive oils.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Badia A Coltibuono is an epitome of Tuscan excellence. It offers a unique experience where food, wine, history, and nature blend together to create an unforgettable sensory journey. Whether you are a wine or olive oil connoisseur, a foodie, or a history buff, Badia A Coltibuono is a perfect destination that will satisfy all your senses.
So, pack your bags, and head to Tuscany to discover the hidden treasures of Badia A Coltibuono!