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The Hotel, the two Restaurants, the Enoteca, the Balsameria and the Glass Museum.
Castello Banfi il Borgo is a multi-experience in a unique place immersed in one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Poggio alle Mura
Castello Banfi is a luxury hotel in Montalcino, nearby Siena in Tuscany. A wonderful venue for your wedding and your holidays.
Each of the ample rooms and suites is distinctly designed and original, embellished and decorated by hand, with premium fabrics and exclusive accessories which underline the inherent elegance of Il Borgo.
Located in the shadow of the historical Castello Banfi, La Sala dei Grappoli welcomes you in an elegant and refined atmosphere.
A classical Tuscan restaurant in the shade of our medieval castle of Poggio alle Mura.
The Enoteca/Wine Bar recreates the atmosphere of a true Tuscan wine shop where, alongside our estate still and sparkling wines, grappa, extra virgin olive oil and Condimento Balsamico Etrusco, are available numerous local artisan food and crafts.
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All News09 June 2023
Summer in Tuscany: 5 original ideas | Castello Banfi Wine Resort
Summer in Tuscany? Here are 5 places to visit that are off the beaten path but wonderful. Read more about Castello Banfi Wine Resort’s recommendations.
Summer in Tuscany is an unrivaled experience, a symphony of emotions and delights for the senses. Among the gently rolling hills and ancient olive trees, the landscapes are enlivened by vibrant and charming colors, framed within a breathtaking and enchanting setting. The cultural wealth of this land offers the opportunity to see firsthand masterpieces from every era.
However, it is not only Florence, Pisa, Siena, Montalcino, and the Chianti hills that hold such treasures. Many small towns and villages in Tuscany are filled with hidden gems, scenic landscapes, and artistic marvels. Additionally, a plethora of recreational activities in harmony with nature will make your summer in Tuscany the most beautiful memory of your vacation.
In this region of rare beauty, summer becomes a feast for the eyes, a journey into the most authentic Italy, where one breathes in the spirit of a land rooted in history, art, and tradition. So, here's what to see in Tuscany during the summer and what alternative activities to indulge in for fun and relaxation.
Summer in Tuscany is not just about going to the beach: there are many attractions that this region offers to both Italian and foreign tourists in summertime. Trekking, for example, proves to be a unique and captivating experience. Amidst vineyards, hills, olive groves, and ancient villages, one breathes fresh air and experiences a full immersion in nature, far from the daily bustle. The winding trails lead to fairytale-like panoramas, and every step stimulates the sense of adventure and exploration. For trekking enthusiasts and those who love biking or horseback riding, Tuscany in summer is the ideal destination.
But summer in Tuscany also means concerts, festivals, medieval reenactments, and good food. The food and wine initiatives linked to local food excellences are an integral part of a refined tourism that is no longer so niche. Surrounded by lush nature, landscapes full of history, and welcomed by the unmatched Tuscan hospitality, wine enthusiasts in Tuscany during summer enjoy all the magical experiences this region has to offer.
When spending summer in Tuscany, where can one go and see away from the big cities full of tourists? Here are 5 low-tourism destinations that can offer you an unforgettable vacation.
Montefioralle is a small and romantic village in the Chianti area, offering breathtaking scenic views. Strolling through its narrow alleyways, admiring the ancient houses still adorned with colorful flowers at the windows, and savoring a delicious gelato in the shade of the medieval castle is an alternative way to enjoy the summer in Tuscany and truly grasp its essence.
Enchanting and characteristic is also the village of Pitigliano, in the heart of Maremma, a small town perched on a tufo hill that overlooks the surrounding countryside. It is also known as "Little Jerusalem" due to the significance of its Jewish community dating back to the 16th century, which consequently influenced the city's urban layout.
In Pitigliano, one can admire the synagogue and the Jewish ghetto, the fascinating Etruscan necropolis, the majestic Medici aqueduct, the beautiful Fountain of the Seven Spouts, and the splendid Palazzo Orsini, a fortress that now houses the Archaeological Museum and the Library.
The historic center of Bolgheri is a truly enchanted place, with the majestic Castle of the Counts of Gherardesca, artisan shops, squares rich in history, and the Viale dei Cipressi [Cypress Boulevard - ed.], made famous by poet Giosuè Carducci. The poet spent several years in this village, always a source of inspiration. If you're wondering what to do in Tuscany during the summer, a visit entirely dedicated to the poet is certainly an experience worth having.
The village of Vinci, located about fifty kilometers from Florence, is famous for being the birthplace of genius Leonardo da Vinci. Despite its fame, it remains a relatively undiscovered tourist destination, making it a perfect choice for an alternative and cultural summer in Tuscany. The main attraction of the village is the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum, which houses one of the exhibitions dedicated to the great Renaissance artist. The museum is located within a charming building itself: the Castle of the Conti Guidi, ancient lords of the village, also known as the "ship castle" due to its characteristic shape.
Exploring the city in the footsteps of Leonardo is a new and culturally rewarding experience. The church of Santa Croce, the Library, and the Piazza adorned with Mario Ceroli's sculpture "L'uomo di Vinci" are all marked by Leonardo's presence in the village.
Poggio alle Mura is the ideal place to spend a summer in Tuscany that goes beyond just the beach. This enchanting location near Montalcino revolves around the Castello Banfi Wine Resort, a medieval fortress surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, transformed into a magnificent resort. Here, you can experience the pleasure of staying in a real medieval castle without sacrificing the luxury and comfort of modern days. The beautiful suites of Hotel Il Borgo perfectly blend tradition and innovation, while the common areas offer the opportunity to relax amidst breathtaking landscapes and views. In this captivating place, you will also find the Glass Museum, which houses glass masterpieces from all eras, including the renowned "Portatrice" by Picasso.
Therefore, summer in Tuscany is a journey to discover the scenic, historical, artistic, cultural, and culinary beauty of a wonderful and unforgettable region. We look forward to welcoming you! Have a great summer!
19 May 2023
Wine tourism in Tuscany: standards and data | Castello Banfi Wine Resort
Tuscany and wine tourism: discover all the secrets of the quintessential combination of Italian tourism on the Castello Banfi Wine Resort’s blog.
Wine tourism, a precious blend of culture and wine tasting, is as a sensory experience of rare pleasure, to be experienced in places full of charm and allure. These destinations captivate not only due to the richness of their soils but also for the artistic, cultural, and scenic treasures they hold. In Italy, and particularly in Tuscany, a region renowned for its prestigious grape varieties and ancient traditions, wine tourism finds one of its highest expressions. Wine tourism in Tuscany offers the opportunity to immerse oneself in the winemaking culture, savor exceptional wines, and embrace the authenticity of a thousand-years-old tradition, providing an unforgettable experience.
Tuscany and wine tourism represent a symbol of Italian excellence in the tourism sector, as per the latest data, approximately 14 million visitors flock to the green hills and lush vineyards of this region every year. They come to explore the historic wineries, where the artistry of winemakers blends with the beauty of the landscapes. Moreover, they indulge in a few days of relaxation surrounded by nature in the charming villages and wine resorts, such as Castello Banfi Wine Resort in Poggio alle Mura.
Let's briefly delve into the data on wine tourism in Tuscany. According to the latest Coldiretti/Ixè report, wine tourism in Italy involves 58% of Italians. Good food and good wine are indeed among the main reasons why a city is chosen as a tourist destination for 56% of respondents. In the case of Tuscany, where wine and food tourism intertwine with art and nature tourism, the numbers are even higher.
Wine tourism in Tuscany is now a well-established phenomenon and one of the most attractive in Italy. Regarding wine-related tourism, the region ranks third, following Piedmont and Campania (according to data from Isnart for Enit), in terms of "food and wine" tourist packages. Based on the 2022 data on wine tourism in Tuscany, provided by the Regional Statistics Office, there were over 13 million tourists and more than 42.7 million overnight stays, showing a significant increase compared to 2021.
The remarkable success of wine tourism in Tuscany is also evident on social media channels. Visits to wine tourism-related offer pages grew by 136.29% from March 2021 to February 2022.
Furthermore, wine tourism in Tuscany fuels not only the tourism sector but also the production sector, with a considerable turnover. According to the latest estimates from the Ismea-Qualivita Observatory, the PDO and PGI Wine sector in Tuscany is worth 1004 million euros (86.9% of the total certified productions in the country). These figures are confirmed by Roberta Garibaldi, vice president of the Tourism Committee of Ocs, one of the leading experts in wine tourism in Tuscany and Italy.
The primacy of Tuscany in the wine tourism sector is ancient, in fact, it is thanks to this region that wine tourism was born in Italy, with initiatives such as Cantine Aperte and Calici sotto le stelle in 1993, along with the Movimento Turismo del Vino [Wine Tourism Movement - ed.].
However, the guidelines for wine tourism were officialized only in the 2000s, with the creation of the "wine roads," protected itineraries that enhance locations and productions. It was only in 2019 that the so-called Decree on Wine Tourism was issued, regulating winery visits, billing for wine tourism activities, the qualifications of personnel, and the guidelines regarding the requirements and minimum quality standards for wine tourism activities.
Although the decree applies throughout Italy, some regions are further refining the legislation to better protect and promote this form of tourism, and Tuscany is among them. The wine tourism law in Tuscany saw significant development in the spring of last year with Regional Law 24 May 2022, no. 15 (Regulation of olive oil and farm holiday hospitality. Amendments to the l.r. 30/2003).
This law regulates wine tourism in Tuscany regarding:
Of particular interest is the new definition of wine tourism, which we report in full: "Wine tourism and olive oil tourism mean all the activities related to the knowledge of wine and extra-virgin olive oil carried out at the place of production, including visits to places of cultivation, production or exhibition of tools used for vine and olive cultivation, wine and olive oil tasting and commercialization, also combined with food, educational and recreational initiatives within wineries and vineyards, oil mills and olive groves.”
The enactment of a wine tourism law in Tuscany is of fundamental importance, serving as a shield for the protection of local producers and the support of their precious winemaking activities. This measure guarantees a solid regulatory framework, capable of preserving centuries-old traditions and promoting excellence in the sector. At the same time, this law becomes a tool of protection for visitors, ensuring safety, quality, and authenticity standards in the experiences offered. In this way, the enhancement of the wine heritage is combined with conscious and rewarding hospitality for all those who choose wine tourism in Tuscany as a form of travel and discovery.
12 May 2023
Sant'Antimo Abbey: opening hours and path | Castello Banfi Wine Resort
How to visit the Sant'Antimo Abbey? At Castello Banfi you can find all you need to know on prices, how to get there and pictures of the monument.
Located in the heart of Tuscany, surrounded by gently rolling hills and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, the Sant'Antimo Abbey is an architectural jewel nestled in the peaceful countryside of Montalcino, just a few kilometers from Castello Banfi Wine Resort. This ancient Benedictine abbey, dating back to the 12th century, is a sublime example of elegance and spirituality, a living testament to a glorious past that continues to attract numerous tourists, both believers and non-believers.
The Sant'Antimo Abbey is much more than a mere tourist attraction; it is a sanctuary of peace and reflection, a place where history merges with spirituality. Every stone, every fresco, and every sculpture has a story to tell and a message to convey. That is why photos and images of Sant'Antimo Abbey cannot fully capture the atmosphere that one breathes there, but they can stimulate the curiosity of tourists who visit this area of Tuscany.
The origins of the Sant'Antimo Abbey in Montalcino date back to Charlemagne, who is said to have built a rectangular chapel with an apse called Cappella Carolingia in 781, which today serves as the sacristy.
Travelers approaching the Abbey from the nearby Castello Banfi Wine Resort are immediately welcomed by its size and the height of the bell tower, majestically rising among the hills. As they draw closer, they are welcomed by a romantic facade that reveals an austere and ancient beauty: the pure and simple lines, the elegant arches, and the windows adorned with intricate details evoke a sense of grace and harmony.
Once inside, after passing through the portal with its sculpted lintel, visitors are welcomed by a feeling of calm and contemplation. Natural light filters through the stained-glass windows, decorating the stone floor with shades of light and shadow, creating some of the most beautiful images of Sant'Antimo Abbey in Montalcino.
The presbytery, dominated by the main altar, is a masterpiece of art and devotion overlooked by a medieval crucifix. Meanwhile, the crypt houses the tomb of Sant'Antimo with its relics.
Next to the abbey stands the Cloister, an enchanting corner of paradise once overlooked by all the buildings belonging to the abbey. It features a quadrangular porticoed courtyard where one can stroll in the shade, enjoying the peace and silence of the place. Nearby, there's the Ospitalia, a guesthouse that still accommodates small groups dedicated to prayer and spiritual retreat.
Livelier and bustling with life is the Monastic Pharmacy, located in the ancient Treasure Room, offering the opportunity to experience the results of the Benedictine rule of "Ora et labora" [Pray and work - ed.]. In the Pharmacy, numerous body care products based on medicinal herbs cultivated near the Abbey are sold, reflecting the ancient wisdom of the monks. Additionally, products from the land's labor, such as honey, herbal teas, candies, and fruit preserves, are also available. The craft beers of Sant'Antimo Abbey, prepared with a secret recipe, are renowned throughout the region. Another notable product is the "Amaro di Sant'Antimo," made from Erba Carlina, which was once used to alleviate the suffering of Charlemagne's soldiers during their visits to the Abbey.
Part of the Benedictine complex is also the Oliveta, a rich and lush area of the monastery dedicated to the cultivation of olive trees, from which high-quality extra virgin olive oil is produced. Additionally, there is an Apiary for crafting artisan honey, and the Garden of Santa Ildegarda, where medicinal plants used to treat the sick can be admired.
The Sant’Antimo Abbey in Montalcino offers the following opening hours to the public:
Please note that on Sundays and public holidays, the Holy Mass is celebrated at 10:00 AM, and entrance is allowed only after the service has ended.
If you want to visit the Sant'Antimo Abbey in Montalcino comfortably, staying at Castello Banfi Wine Resort is the best choice. The resort is also nestled in an oasis of peace amidst the green hills adorned with vineyards and olive groves, providing an excellent starting point for reaching the abbey in the morning after a hearty breakfast. Moreover, it is only a few kilometers away from this renowned tourist destination.
The road that separates the resort from the abbey is also an attraction. It is easy to travel, without dangerous hairpin turns or heavy traffic, making it a charming route that leads to an even more enchanting destination.
Leaving from Castello Banfi Wine Resort, you can reach the Sant'Antimo Abbey through two routes:
17 April 2023
Terms for wine tasting | Castello Banfi Wine Resort
From clarity to smoothness, here's a list of suitable terminology to describe the characteristics of wine during a tasting session.
An increasing number of Italians are opting to indulge in a wine tasting experience offered by the most prestigious wineries or savor a tasting menu that pairs gourmet dishes with carefully selected wines at high-end restaurants such as Ristorante La Sala dei Grappoli near Montalcino. This is why to fully immerse oneself in the experience, it is also beneficial to learn a comprehensive and accurate wine tasting terminology, enabling one to fully grasp the harmony of pairings and the myriad of nuances concealed within a glass of wine.
Knowing which terms to use is important even if you want to fill out - or read - a wine tasting sheet, a valuable ally that allows you to organize the sensations experienced during the tasting experience.
The most common form is the wine tasting sheet from AIS (Italian Sommelier Association), but there's also the FISAR (Italian Federation of Sommeliers, Hoteliers, and Restaurateurs) sheet. Both are built upon analyzing the three fundamental aspects of sensory analysis carried out during the tasting session:
So, here's a short list of wine tasting terminology that is useful for filling out a wine tasting sheet and for truly appreciating the value of a fine bottle, capturing all the nuances and peculiarities it holds.
Describing the visual characteristics of wine is the first step in the tasting experience. In fact, the experience begins with sight, and a fundamental role is played by the color, clarity, and fluidity of the wine.
The color of wine is the first element to consider during the visual examination. Distinguishing different shades of color and their reflections requires practice, but with time, one can learn to differentiate a straw-yellow wine from a golden-yellow one.
The clarity of a wine depends on the presence of suspended particles, such as yeast, sediments, or other substances that could make the wine cloudy or opaque. A clear wine appears crystalline and bright, indicating higher quality and care in the winemaking process, especially when it comes to sparkling wines.
In wine tasting terminology, fluidity is a characteristic measured through the "technical gesture" of swirling the glass and observing the legs left on the sides. The wider the legs, the less fluid the wine.
The second sense involved in tasting is the sense of smell. The bouquet of aromas and scents released by the wine is a result of not only careful grape selection but also attentive aging in specific barrels, enriching the wine's natural scent.
The intensity of the wine is perceived through the initial impact of the wine on the sense of smell. Tasters usually bring the glass to their nose, slightly tilt it, and take slow, regular sniffs.
The description defines the type of aromas characterizing the wine (floral, fruity, etc.) and to recognize the individual fragrances that tantalize the sense of smell.
The gustatory examination is the final part of the tasting process, where the meaning of the entire experience materializes when the first drops of wine touch the tongue and palate, opening the doors to infinite sensations.
Wine effervescence is applicable only to sparkling wines and refers to evaluating the size and persistence of the bubbles in essentially how long they remain in the glass after pouring. The presence of bubbles can also clarify if the wine pairs well with certain foods, particularly with degreasing properties thus it is important to note this characteristic in the wine sheet if it is paired with food.
Wine persistence in the context of wine tasting terminology plays a prominent role. It indicates how long the initial taste sensation produced by the wine lingers on the palate, even after swallowing.
The body of the wine refers to the sensation of fullness, weight, and consistency experienced in the mouth during wine tasting. It indicates the presence of solid substances like tannins, residual sugars, and extracts, which contribute to the wine's structure.
The amount of acids present in the wine determines its acidity, which can be perceived as a sensation of sharpness or freshness on the tongue. It provides vitality and structure to the wine, balancing the sweetness of residual sugars and the perception of tannins in the case of red wines.
Sapidity is a less common characteristic compared to other tastes in wine, such as acidity or sweetness, but it is equally important in wine tasting terminology. It depends mainly on the presence of mineral salts in the soil, which winemakers carefully select.
Wine sweetness is due to the presence of residual natural sugars that were not fully converted into alcohol during fermentation. In the terminology of wine tasting, terms like "brut," "extra-dry," "dry," "off-dry," "medium-dry," or "sweet" are used to provide an approximate indication of the perceived level of sweetness in wines and sparkling wines.
The alcohol content, listed on the wine tasting sheet as well as on the label, represents the percentage of alcohol present in the wine in relation to the total volume. It is a measurement that informs about the concentration of alcohol in the wine and is expressed as a percentage. The alcohol content of the wine can influence its sensory perception and body. A wine with a higher alcohol content may be perceived as more full-bodied, warm, or intense, while a wine with a lower alcohol content may appear lighter or fresher.
10 April 2023
What to see near Montalcino? | Castello Banfi Wine Resort
What to visit nearby Montalcino? Explore interesting locations close to this Tuscan town.
Montalcino, an enchanting medieval village nestled among the hills of Tuscany, is renowned worldwide for its excellent wines, such as the beloved Brunello di Montalcino. However, beyond its renowned wine production, the town and its surroundings offer many other attractions and picturesque places to visit. Here’s what to see near Montalcino.
With its thousand-years-old history, Montalcino enchants visitors with its timeless charm and offers a refined and fulfilling travel experience. Enveloped by well-preserved medieval walls, the village of Montalcino is rich with cobblestone streets and ancient stone houses, evoking images of a bygone era. Walking through the historic center is like immersing oneself in a fairytale, where medieval architectures unveil their stories steeped in tradition and nobility. Wondering what to see in Montalcino is, in fact, a question of being ready to embark on a marvelous journey into the past.
One of the most iconic elements of Montalcino is its imposing Fortress, majestically perched atop the village. Built in the XIV century, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, allowing the eyes to wander over the gentle Tuscan hills, rows of vineyards and olive groves, creating a picture of rare beauty. The Fortress often serves as the venue for numerous cultural events, including the renowned Jazz & Wine in Montalcino, a festival dedicated to music and good wine. What can I find near Montalcino?
One of the most beautiful villages near Montalcino worth visiting is Pienza, known as the "ideal city," renovated by Pope Pius II in the XV century and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architectural beauty, including Piazza Piccolomini and the Cathedral. Next is Bagno Vignoni, built around a natural hot water spring that magically wells up in a large basin at the center of the square. Then there's Castiglione d'Orcia, a small village dominated by the imposing Rocca di Tentennano, an ancient medieval tower now hosting exhibitions and cultural events. Lastly, Buonconvento boasts the magnificent Clock Tower and Palazzo Podestarile, where you can still admire the 25 coats of arms of the ancient podestà [local leaders - ed.] of this charming village near Montalcino.
The Bottle and Glass Museum, dedicated to Giovanni F. Mariani, is located within the enchanting Castello Banfi Wine Resort, a 14th-century castle nestled in the heart of the village of Poggio alle Mura, which makes it a museum within a museum. Inside, visitors can admire the old castle spaces, such as the former stable and olive press, where the original machinery from 1857 is still preserved. As they follow the exhibition path, they are taken on a journey through the history of glass production, from the exquisite Roman glass artifacts dating back to the V and IV centuries BC to the stunning Picasso masterpiece "La Portatrice."
But Montalcino is just the beginning of an unforgettable journey through the Val d'Orcia, a breathtaking landscape that extends beyond the borders of the village. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Val d'Orcia is a succession of hills shaped by agriculture and dotted with enchanting medieval villages.
Each glimpse reveals timeless beauty, a landscape painted with warm and harmonious colors that frame winding roads, fields of golden wheat, majestic cypress trees, and orderly vineyards. If you're wondering what to do and see in Val d'Orcia, the possibilities are endless. Whether it is relaxing in a magnificent wine resort or exploring the natural wonders through excursions, trekking, and walks, you will be accompanied by the opportunity to taste the local wines through guided tastings at the nearby wineries.
A vacation in Val d'Orcia turns into an immersive and relaxing experience, where you can delve into the world of wine. Among the highlights to see near Montalcino is the Castello Banfi Wine Resort, a fairytale-like medieval village just a short distance away. Here you will have the unique opportunity to stay in an authentic medieval castle. The rooms and suites at Hotel Il Borgo have been created restoring the castle buildings harmoniously blending the old with the new, tradition and contemporary comfort.
You can also deepen your wine knowledge through guided tours of the Banfi wineries or enjoy delightful lunches at the La Taverna restaurant.
An exhaustive answer to the question of what to see in Montalcino cannot overlook a tour of the wineries and wine shops in the vicinity. This discovery journey into the world of wine will give you the opportunity to explore real wineries and observe the wine production process up close, witnessing how cutting-edge technologies walk hand in hand with age-old traditions. In some places, like at L’Enoteca, a characteristic Tuscan shop located in the Banfi Castle Wine Resort, you can purchase the finest bottles and taste local products and culinary excellences from the region.