21.2.12
Future plans and forthcoming pleasures
5th April – just before Easter we have a small group on a country jaunt in Tuscany and space for another 4 people in our mini van.
Our plan is to start from central Florence and go to the beautiful Italian garden of the Villa Gamberaia
Villa Gamberaia - May 2011
Gamberaia is a 14th-century villa near Settignano, outside Florence, whose terraced garden was developed by the reclusive Romanian Princess Ghika after she purchased it in 1896. It was much loved by all the Anglo-American Exiles in and around Florence at the time and simply described by Iris Origo as the most beautiful, and the most romantic garden of them all – and they were all in competition for this type of accolade!
The view from Villa Gamberaia
Although much of the garden was destroyed during the Second World War – it has now been lovingly recreated – complete with it’s parterre planted with roses and cabbages, it’s immaculately clipped and tailored hedges – and it’s many ponds.
Immaculately clipped hedges - even in March !
One of the most famous features of the garden is a water parterre which I can’t find a good photograph of – so another good excuse to go back.
Entry to the garden is by pre-appointment only and costs €10 – our visit is scheduled for 10.30.
Dr Katie Campbell at Gamberaia - May 2011
The photo above shows garden historian Dr Katie Campbell who led our group visit in May 2011. We are going back to Gamberaia with her for the third time on Tuesday 15th May.
From Gamberaia we are heading out into Chiantishire to sample the delights of the antique butcher – Antica Macelleria Falorni- in Greve – largely to enable Kath to stock up for a week or so on some of her favourite foods – but I guess we will all succumb!
We will have lunch at the well known Azienda of Montigliari where the food is always great and if the weather is nice there are glorious views from the outdoors restaurant across the many vineyards of Chianti.
lunch at Montigliari Vineyard
At Montigliari they not only make wine but also the sweet dessert wine Vin Santo and a very fine balsamic vinegar – only they are not allowed to call it that as they are not in Modena! So below we see the production of balsamic vinegar, by any other name – yet still tasting as sweet – and just delicious on ice cream and strawberries!
Balsamic vinegar by any other name
And finally we are going to do more wine tasting at Cennatoio Inter Vineas. where I have never been before but I am assured the wines are spectacular!
If you are interested in joining our small group on this day out please email me at penny.howard1@ntlworld.com
Cost – as for all our wine tours is €70 – entrance to the garden of Gamberaia is extra, but only €10.
Cheers , Cin Cin or Salute – or what you will!
