Could it be the endearing label design by Isotta, his daughter or the fact that Fabrizio, whose primary career is being a lawyer, turned his countryside cottage into a fully working winery that makes an unrivalled name in the wine industry? His story is captivating; planting his first vineyards of Syrah in the early 2000s and by 2023 producing seven labels of exceptional, organic wine. Il Castagno, the name of his country cottage (as well as his first red wine) is nine minutes from Cortona in Chiuso della Valdichiana among rolling hills, olive groves, wheat and sunflower fields – landscapes you’ll be taking in as you savour each drop of nectar during your tasting.
Address: Il Castagno, C.S. Ossaia 87, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy
Website: fabriziodionisio.it
Cheese tasting at De Magi
Since the age of 12 Andrea De Magi has been helping his family in their cheese business, discovering a passion for the industry. Like a scientist in their laboratory, Andrea attentively researches and tests new flavours and aromas to create unique cheeses that today has earned him numerous awards. In Castiglione Fiorentino it is possible (if booked well in advance) to part take in a multisensory cheese experience that includes a visit to a cave filled with stacks of ageing cheese, a demonstration of the refining process and, the most awaited cheese tasting – a crash course in how to correctly cut cheese and pair it with the correct or incorrect wine.
Website: Book via email: magi@demagi.it
Osteria del Teatro
Emiliano and Ylenia Rossi opened Osteria del Teatro back in 1994 but it was in 2001 that the restaurant moved across the street and underwent attentive renovations; frescoes were restored and furnishings were purchased from Cortona’s antique Market. It certainly is a theatrical environment – wait until you see the collection of china dolls in the bathroom, or you hear Ylenia’s contagious laugh. It’s a very memorable experience where the cuisine is an integral part of this – the menu is in fact curated by Emiliano who elevates traditional Tuscan dishes with different flavour combinations according to the season like the Pici with Chianina ragù and porcini mushrooms.
Address: Via Giuseppe Maffei, 2, 52044 Cortona AR, Italy
Website: osteria-del-teatro.com
Ristorante La Loggetta
Overlooking the central Piazza della Republica, La Loggetta is housed in the cellars of a 13th century palazzo that evokes the essence of a tuscan trattoria: wooden beams across the ceiling, brick arches, terracotta floors and in the evening a cosy, dimly lit atmosphere. It’s Marco and Lara’s pride and joy; he runs the kitchen and she welcomes guests with that warm, Italian approach and a smile on her face. Expect traditional dishes of the region like the classic Chianina steak – because after all, this is where the Chianina breed was born – as well as a slightly contemporary spin on recipes such as the risotto with rum, cheese and pear. When in Tuscany, do as the Tuscans and end the meal with home made cantucci and vin Santo – you won’t regret it.
