Chianti lovers are in for a surprise this Christmastime. Along the scenic via Chiantigiana between Monteriggioni and Castellina in Chianti, the family-owned Cecchi winery has decided against something as tedious as a Christmas tree.
From December 12 to January 6, the Sangiovese spectacle will dazzle passers-by with its Lights in the Vineyard installation. Designed by Florence-based artist Angela Nocentini and developed in collaboration with communications agency Community Clonwerk La Buccia, the vineyard comes wide awake at nightfall, at a time when it’s usually quietly snoozing and unexplored by the masses. Across the vast expanse of vines sweeping down the Villa Cerna hill, light sculptures in the shape of leaves pop up, but an illuminated bunch of grapes and a very Tuscan demijohn in recycled glass are the show stealers.
Spring, summer, autumn, winter: though the seasons change, Chianti is the wine region that never sleeps.
Wineries to visit this winter
Cecchi – Villa Cerna: Order chestnut gnocchi with hare sauce and look out over the winter vineyard light show from restaurant and wine bar Foresteria. After taking a tour of Cecchi’s rustic Villa Cerna, of course. This year’s winter must-see in Tuscany.
To taste: Villa Cerna Chianti Classico Riserva 2012
Website
Frescobaldi – Nipozzano: Nipozzano Castle and nearby wine bar Il Quartino is where I go to escape the world—it’s also where my husband proposed to me. The views are among my favourite in Tuscany. Sip Frescobaldi wines by the glass and grab a bite to eat.
To taste: Chianti Rufina Nipozzano Vecchie Viti 2013
Website
Castello di Ama: Sunshine or snowfall, whatever the weather my mind often turns to Ama. Contemporary art (check out the new addition, Topos – Excavated, by Korean artist Lee Ufan), fine wines, soul food: this Chianti Classico winery is akin to a siren call.
To taste: San Lorenzo Chianti Classico
Gran Selezione DOCG 2013
Website
Il Borro: The Ferragamo’s wine estate in the Aretine countryside is equally memorable in the cold months. Be spellbound by the 1000-year-old barrique cellar, warmed by hot vintages, syrupy vin santo, lively Sangiovese bubbles, and sated by chef Andrea Campani’s modern takes on Tuscan classics.
To taste: Il Borro IGT Toscana Rosso 2013
Website
Palazzo Vecchio – La Dogana: Sushi is the last thing you’d expect to find in a hamlet northeast of Montepulciano, but Tuscany is full of surprises. The location of The Tuscan Times’ launch party, La Dogana wine bar is the ideal getaway for local specialties, oriental themed nights and increasingly fine wines.
To taste: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
Terrarossa 2009
Website
San Felice: There’s no denying it, San Felice is a happy place. It’s also one of the most forward-thinking cantine in Tuscany, leading the way in single-variety native grape wines. The on-site wine bar and gourmet cuisine at the Poggio Rosso restaurant are pretty impressive too.
To taste: Pugnitello 2011
Website
