La Bella Vita: Montepulcinao

It is hard to describe the beauty that I just witnessed in Tuscany last week. The rolling hills, and stunning views was such a relief from the hustle and bustle of Rome. Don’t get me wrong my obsession with Rome grows everyday, but getting that fresh air in the vineyards was much needed. Thanks to Jenny we had our own private wine tour with a very knowledgeable women named Alessandra. We were all actually obsessed with her. She took us to the town of Montepulciano, which is the most beautiful town encircled by walls and filled with churches and vineyards. Inside the walls the winding streets gave a Medieval/Renaissance vibe. The town is known for its Vino Nobile red wine and Alesandra took us to taste them at the Contucci Estate. I instantly fell in love with Adamo, who took such pride in showing us around the 1,000-year-old winery. Thinking about the lunch that Alesandra took us too makes me want to go back to Montepulciano in and of it self. Everything was freshly made on the farm that the restaurant was on. We got to go down stairs and see the huge wine barrels and the meats hanging form the ceiling. At lunch we ate all traditional Tuscan cuisine, including the most amazing Tuscan soup ( to die for)! We then headed to a little town called Pienza, where the best Pecorino in the area is produced from the unique sheep that are located there. Of course, Alessandra had the hook up and we went to her friend’s pecorino shop on a farm where we got to test all different kinds of pecorino cheese. With my newfound love for pecorino I couldn’t resist buying some and a special apple, pear and vanilla jam to compliment it! I could go on and on about how much I loved Tuscany, I honestly did not want to leave when the day came to an end. The one thing I have to look forward to is sharing the reserve wine I bought from Contucci and the cheese to share with my family and Dylan when they arrive tomorrow! I have butterflies in my stomach, (I am so excited!!!!)