Departing from Florence, head south. The approximately 1-hour drive offers views of the spectacular Tuscan countryside.

Upon arrival in Siena, guests will have 2-3 hours of free time to wander the undulating streets of this charming Tuscan town.

Stepping into the spectacular shell-shaped Piazza del Campo is simply memorizing. Overlooked by the stately Torre del Mangia, it is an experience in itself to enjoy an exquisite espresso or cappuccino in one of the historic cafés lining the square. Time may be spent shopping, exploring the unique artisan stores, visiting the historic churches, from quaint family chapels to the imposing Cathedral that stands sentinel over the city.

What is it that makes Siena and the Chianti region so extraordinary?

There is the natural beauty of the splendid surrounds, the marvel of the medieval cities, the fascinating history the ancient walls hold within. Then there are the gastronomical delights, from suburb extra-virgin olive oil and incredible wines, cheeses and cured meats, to the sensational recipes from mouth-watering savoury delights to delectable desserts.

Chianti Classico wine is produced in one of the oldest wine-making areas in the region.

Indeed, many consider this much-loved red to be the father of all Tuscan wines.

The Chianti Classico area stretches from Florence to Siena and today boasts around 600 wineries. Most of these are boutique, family-run estates following the ancient wine-producing traditions. Interestingly, not all of the wineries are open to the public, with most being upon appointment only.

The Chianti wine-producing area was initially delineated in the early 1700s. However, it was redrawn in the 1930s, being split into 7 smaller areas such as the Chianti Classico, Colli Senesi and Rufina zones to name a few.

It was at that time that most villages falling within the Chianti Classico area changed their name to identify themselves as part of this larger and arguably more prestigious wine area, such as Greve becoming ‘Greve in Chianti’.Wines produced under the Chianti Classico label must adhere to strict production regulations and are instantly recognizable by the Black Rooster symbol attached to the bottles.

The first official blend was formulated in the mid-1800s by Baron Bettino Ricasoli (who went on to become Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Italy), being 70% Sangiovese, 15% Malvasia Bianca and 15% Canaiolo.

In the 1990s, new wine regulations permitted Chianti Classico producers to increase the quantity of Sangiovese even up to 100%, although only 80% is today required to utilize the Black Rooster symbol.