Learn more about Tuscan Women Cook the Culinary Vacation Program in the Tuscan Village of Montefollonico In Italy
By Carla Snuggs

If you are looking for an authentic cooking experience in the heart of Tuscany, join Tuscan Women Cook. Their Culinary Vacation Program takes place in the medieval Tuscan hilltop village of Montefollonico, one hour south of Florence and two hours north of Rome. 

During each day of the week-long program, a group of 16 participants learn to cook authentic Italian recipes from some of the best cooks in all of Italy…the local grandmothers, or “nonnas of Montefollonico.” These extraordinary women teach their cooking classes sharing family recipes that have been handed down from generation to generation. 

​Guests will stay in a gorgeous villa on a secluded estate with breathtaking views. They will attend classes and take excursions to wineries, cheese makers and traditional rice farms.

Authentic Italian Recipes

Tuscan cuisine is renowned for its simplicity and balanced mixture of ingredients. From the famous Pappa al Pomodoro to Ribollita, and La Francesina (which repurposes boiled beef soaked in red wine), there's something for everyone here.

Soups are another big favourite in Tuscany; hearty, thick, and laden with fresh local ingredients. Farinata di Cavolo Nero, a classic soup of kale and polenta, is a popular choice.

Italian bread, known in Italy as Pane Toscano, is adored for its hearty flavour and mild sweetness. It has become a popular basis for many dishes, from crostones and ribollita to crostone with kale and cannellini beans.

For foodies, a trip to Tuscany is a must-do! This region is a wine lover's dream, with stunning landscapes and top-quality wines from Brunello de Montalcino to Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Local Food & Wine

In the Tuscan Village your meals will be prepared with fresh ingredients from the property’s garden and ochards, as well as from local food producers. Antipasti and pasta will be cooked in traditional Italian cooking classes, while a variety of regional wines will be served to complete the meal.

You’ll learn to prepare a four-course meal, including antipasti, pasta and sauces, a main course, and dessert. In addition, you’ll learn how to make ribollita, a slow-stewed soup that has been eaten in the Tuscan village of Montefollonico for generations.

You’ll also learn how to make gnocchi, tagliatelli and pici, thick strings of eggless pasta made in the area of Montefollonico. These recipes are a must-try when you visit the region! The local women, or “nonnas,” will teach you their best techniques and family recipes. Your week will also include cultural excursions to charming little towns with unique local foods and wine tastings at some of the world’s top renowned vintners.

Cultural Excursions

Located in the heart of the Brunello de Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wine region, this program includes a variety of cultural excursions. It also provides a hands-on cooking experience with local village "nonnas" who teach traditional Italian recipes using regional ingredients and techniques.

While staying within the walls of the magical village of Montefollonico, guests stay at the beautiful I Castagni hotel.  Perched at the very top of Montefollonico, guests enjoy spectacular views of the Chiana valley and the picturesque village from their suites and I Castagni’s well-appointed expansive outdoor terrace.

The residential program is a perfect choice for the traveler who wants to immerse themselves in the authentic life of a Tuscan village. It includes daily hands-on cooking classes, excursions to nearby towns and vineyards, cheese making, and gourmet dinners.

Accommodations

Tuscan Women Cook the Culinary Vacation Program in the Tuscan Village is a week-long culinary immersion where guests from around the world are invited to live, breath and cook like Italians do. The cooking vacations include deluxe accommodations, wine tours, cultural excursions and exclusive introductions to renowned vintners and purveyors.

This six night program features deluxe accommodation in a historic villa located in the heart of Brunello de Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano country. This is the center of the new Italian wine renaissance and is perfect for your Bucket List trip with family or friends.

Breakfast and lunch are included, followed by cooking classes that are designed to be hands-on for everyone in the group. You’ll learn to roll out fresh pasta and make simple but delicious sauces, main courses and desserts using local produce and ingredients. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of local wines.

For more information on Tuscan Women Cook, visit their website, www.TuscanWomenCook.com.