From wine tasting to truffle hunting amongst the most scenic country landscapes, here are ten wine resort experiences you should consider this autumn.
1
Le Marne, Piemonte
The Relais Le Marne, a boutique hotel located within the Mura Mura farm owned by Guido Martinetti and Federico Grom, welcomes autumn with a tailor-made experience to introduce and appreciate the absolute protagonist of the Piedmont season: white truffle. From late October to early December, it will be possible to book an offer that includes a three night stay at the resort, white truffle hunting in the autumnal landscapes of the Langhe and Monferrato, a truffle masterclass and pairing with Mura Mura wines and a special dinner focused on the special tuber at Radici, led by Turin chef Marco Massaia. WEBSITE
2
La Raia, Piemonte
Nestled just over an hour away from Milan, the Gavi landscapes become the ultimate place to infuse your mind with nature and tranquility. This territory is home to La Raia, where wine is produced biodinamically. It’s a haven for wine enthusiasts, art connoisseurs and adventure seekers where you can taste some of the most sublime nectars of the region. From here, a country path through lakes and fields leads you Locanda La Raia, a cosy resort where nature becomes the pinnacle of your every day. This autumn, book yourself a room and spend a long weekend among vineyards, bunnies, spa and gourmet cuisine at their restaurant where Chef Tommaso Arrigoni has introduced prestigious truffle to recipes that speak of the region. WEBSITE
3
roncolo 1888, emilia romagna
In the land of Lambrusco, Parmigiano Reggiano and Balsamic Vinegar, Tenuta Venturini Baldini and its relais Roncolo 1888 are nestled among hills of the Terre di Canossa on the outskirts of Reggio Emilia. Here, you’re not short of experiences that connect you with the territory for example learning the secrets behind balsamico making, followed by a tasting of both aged balsamic and flavoured condiments or renting an old school convertible Fiat for the day as well as learning how to make fresh egg tortelli or tagliolini and later enjoying your creations with a glass of Tenuta Venturini Baldini wine – or Lambrusco for that matter, to keep in with traditions. WEBSITE
4
Pieve Aldina, Toscana
The recently opened Pieve Aldina, part of the Domaine de Fontenille hotel group, is situated in the heart of the Chianti Classico, near Radda in Chianti. Alongside infusing your days with untouched nature, you can dig deep into the autumnal flavours with Chef Flavio, who will teach you to make fresh pasta with this seasons ingredients: mushrooms, chestnuts, truffle and more! Furthermore, at Pieve Aldina’s spa you can relax with vinotherapy, a treatment that consists in a white grape must scrub followed by a relaxing massage or facial. WEBSITE
5
Casa Newton, Toscana
Opening this September, the view from Casa Newton stretching towards Monte Amiata passing over the breathtaking landscapes of Val d’Orcia, which you can explore on an e-bike throughout your stay. An ancient tuscan residence has been designed with an eye towards the contemporary whilst incorporating local tradition and craftsmanship. From the rows of vineyards in the back yard to visiting the neighbouring dairy farm and tasting local pecorino cheese, there are endless experiences to try this season at Casa Newton. WEBSITE
6
Relais del Cabreo, Toscana
Two farmhouses: Pietra del Cabreo and Borgo del Cabreo make up Relais del Cabreo, a Tuscan haven in the heart of Chantishire, where vineyards and cypress lined hills make up the enchanting setting. Both estates house eleven rooms, a swimming pool and a nature-filled garden to wake up in complete quietude. The properties belong to the Folonari brothers’ wine estate: Tenute Ambrogio e Giovanni Folonari, which you can visit during your stay and taste various historic wines, stroll among the vineyards followed by dinner at La Pietra, headed by Chef Alessio Sedran and sided by two very talented sous chefs Giacomo Rossi and Luca Vanneschi. The restaurant offers a menu that highlights the culinary traditions of the territory using only locally sourced ingredients or those grown in-house, paired with, of course, their own wines. WEBSITE
7
Al Piglio, Lazio
In the Lazio countryside, you can experience a new concept of ‘wine stay’ in a charming, newly opened resort. Elisabetta Petrini recently opened Al Piglio, which she fondly describes as a «winery with rooms». Here, you wake up among the rolling, autumn coloured vineyards and olive groves as well as take a dip in the hot tub as you savour a glass of wine. The restaurant Terra offers a contemporary interpretation to local recipes. This autumn, the property has released a special menu for olive oil tasting as well as a blind tasting of ten renowned Italian wines. The person who guesses the most bottles will receive one of their choice. WEBSITE
8
Castello Di Semivicoli, Abruzzo
In the small town of Casacanditella in Abruzzo lies Castello di Semivicoli, a historic 11 roomed residence surrounded by the vineyards. Interiors speak of a blend between beautifully preserved antiques and contemporary furnishings. Here, the Masciarelli family combine the art of hospitality with a passion for fine wine production; they seek to promote native grapes through innovation and craftsmanship. From wine and olive oil tasting to participating in the grape harvest this month, there’s a lot going on for your autumnal escape. WEBSITE
9
Borgo San Gregorio, Campania
On the gentle hills of Irpinia, between Avellino and Salerno, an area known for the beauty of its vineyards, there’s a new entry in the community: the renowned Feudi di San Gregorio winery has opened 12 rooms spread across three buildings, all facing the untouched, surrounding nature. Each are characterized by a modern approach to design with a strong focus on sustainability. At the Marennà restaurant, located within the winery, Chef Roberto Allocca offers traditional Italian recipes prepared with passion and savoir-faire using fresh, local ingredients. Don’t miss the wide range of wine experiences, including tours among the vineyards, wine tastings, and the Teatro del Vino, a space designed for flavour journeys, vertical tastings, and the opening of the grand formats, including the Balthazar, from which this room takes its name. WEBSITE
10
Barone di Villagrande, Sicilia
In the small village of Milo at the foot of Mount Etna, the Barone di Villagrande winery boasts a history dating back to 1727. Today, Marco Nicolosi, enologist and owner of the estate, continues the work of previous generations, enriching it with a contemporary vision that combines a passion for the land and hospitality. Within the 40 hectare estate, amidst oak and chestnut woods, and part of the Etna Regional Park, you’ll find the wine resort with four rooms overlooking the infinity pool, which in turn overlooks the vineyards and the sea. Inside, there is a gourmet proposal entirely dedicated to local and seasonal cuisine perfectly paired with their own wine labels. WEBSITE