I am traveling to Tuscany with 2 friends
Nov 1-8. We're staying in Figline and
hope to travel primarily by rail. I'm looking for a local winery that will allow us to purchase and then ship wine
to the US. I did this on a previous trip to Italy without any problem, but this go round the places I've contacted
have demurred from shipping. Any ideas?

Hi lake,

Does your home state permit importation of wine?

Yes, it does, so that's not a problem.

For Rex: Like your idea of a good enoteca as I have driven half looped along the Napa Valley. No one spits it out at these wineries do they!!!
So how do we do this experience in a Florence/Venice enoteca. I know zilch about wines. Aren't I supposed to try an Amorone(sp)in Venice
Your advice would be appreciated.

Sorry, but I cannot cite specific experience with any one enoteca IN Florence, specifically, but you might take a look at http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34475301

I think that Amarone is an acquired taste. It has a higher content of both alcohol and sugar, if I recall correctly, than other wines of its class, and I think some people say it can seem a little bit "raisin-y". I am only vaguely familiar with it, and I cannot comment on how "essential" it is to a visit to Venice or the Veneto (I associate it with Verona more than Venice, personally). There are certainly other wines unique to the Veneto, from classy to not so. I personally think that you can find some pleasant examples of Valpolicella and Bardolino both in the Verona/Veneto area - - though both are sometimes labeled "training wheels" wines by serious red wine afficionados.

Hi Fairhope,

You might find this link helpful.

http://www.winespectator.com/Wine/Home/

Click on 'Learn about wine'.

To Rex and Ira: You guys are fabulous.
http://www.paginegialle.it/pg/cgi/pg...p;x=48&y=7 I found this site as Rex directed. It lists enoteca --what they carry--whether they offer food or wine and services like tasting It is fantastic! translated! informative!
I wish we didn't have to ask so MANY dumb questions to get your knowlege.
On to Ira's site to know what to taste!

This site has good one page effort to tell me what to look for--
http://www.knowital.com/Towns/Lucca2...e_wines_o.html

You're quite welcome, fairhope...