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We highly recommend Castello Verrazano. the tour with lunch was fabulous. Make reservations well in advance. it was booked when we were there.

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Any suggestions on wineries in Siena and San Gimignano

ttt

Mike,
I've not had much luck in Siena. There is the somewhat famous enoteca in the fortezza but my experience convinced me it is set up for large tour groups and gatherings. I didn't even get a chance to taste anything as an individual. I have yet to stumble upon any offerings inside the city.
As for San Gimignano, there are small shops with wine offerings and grappa--I've only been impressed with the grappa and they are on the main touristed thoroughfares. I've researched and found wineries in the very local area which offer the local vernaccia but haven't visited. Good hunting. Paul

We are planning a 2 Week trip to Italy over Christmas... these recommendations are really helpful! I like the idea of the tour guides. Any idea of the cost? How about the weather in the winter? Are wineries open then? Thanks for the info!

I am looking for wineries in Umbria. I am thinking of places near or in Spello or Speleto.I have heard good things about both places.

Cassa Emma and Fattoria Montagliardi in the Chianti region are both excellent. Cassa Emma is very modern and you get a great tour - and an outdoor lunch at Fattoria Montagliardi is not to be missed - along with a really neat explanation of how Balsamic Vinegar is aged. I had a Papperadelle with Wild Boar Sauce with a Chianti - both were absolutely fantastic.

Fellow Fodorites -
I am searching wineries In Tuscany for my upcoming trip in November. Here is a link to 101 wineries in the region. You can check out their websites and email those you are interested in. You can see which offer tastings, which require reservations, price, etc. I have been in touch with several wineries I've found on this list. Hope it's helpful to you.

http://www.chianticlassico.com/english/inchianti.asp

This is a great list of wineries for Tuscany. I am looking for something like this list for Umbria.I will be renting a car in Ovrieto to travel around that area.

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I contacted by email Rocca delle Macie" Winery. It seems very nice. Has anyone been there?

>>I contacted by email Rocca delle Macie" Winery. It seems very nice. Has anyone been there?<<

I haven't been there, but they distribute the wines made by some people I know well and like a lot, so I would imagine they are very nice...