Doug Cooks

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Tuscany


Montespertoli


If I were ever to retire, the question I always ask myself is; where would I want to spend the golden years with my wife? The one and only answer I produce is Tuscany. One can dream, huh?

Tuscany for me is the ever-changing colors of rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, Cyprus tree lined roads, gentle breezes, the smell of jasmine and some of the best food on earth.

When travelling to Montespertoli Italy, we stay Villa De' Medici. It is owned and operated by my good friend, Federico Cirri. He is a wonderful host, all-around great guy, and I am proud to call him my friend. He will make your stay a very memorable one.

The hill town of Montespertoli is in the Chianti region, it offers excellent wines, a world-class museum and a heritage that stems back to Etruscan times. The views of the Tuscan countryside are stunning, with olives trees, castles, and vineyards. Ideally located for exploring Tuscany, De Medici's Villa makes a great base from which to explore central Tuscany.

Tuscany is known for its landscapes, history, artistic legacy, and its influence on high culture. It is regarded as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and has been home to many figures influential in the history of art and science and contains well-known museums such as the Uffizi and the Palazzo Pitti.



The Food of Tuscany


So, let's talk about the food of Tuscany: All food in Italy is based on what is fresh, in season and what is available regionally.

Tuscany is known for wild boar (salami or ragù), porcini mushrooms, rabbit (roasted or in a ragù), truffles, white beans, pecorino cheeses, artichokes, hard crusty breads, cinta senese pork, salami, fruity olive oil, a variety pastas (pici, trofie) Florentine steak, and wine...red wine, since we are in the Chianti region.

Stick to the menu and foget about asking for spaghetti and meatballs, you won’t regret it.


Fresh, Local and Seasonal


A twist on a traditional Caprese salad


Pici with wild boar ragù


Tuscan bread, salami, and buffalo mozzarella with the local red


Pici cacio e pepe


Tagliatelle with fresh ricotta and truffle