On this trip, I made my first visit to Castiglion del Bosco, a magnificently restored estate in Montalcino.  The estate, one of the oldest in Tuscany, was purchased by Massimo Ferragamo in 2003 and has since undergone extensive restoration and renovation. Castiglion del Bosco is set apart on a hillside vineyard.  And yet, as a guest of the estate, so much is at your fingertips from great food and wine, to cooking classes, horseback riding, golf, pool, spa, and all within a short drive to Florence.  I saw this property before its seasonal opening, and was so impressed by the warm welcome I received.  Roberta, the Sales Director, is full of life and energy, and instantly makes you feel a part of the estate.  My visit was spectacular, and I hope to return in the fall for the grape harvest. As one of the estate’s signature activities, guests are invited to participate in the life of the harvest and learn the secrets of Brunello di Montalcino wine production.  Guests learn the art of picking the Sangiovese grapes and then follow them through all the stages of wine production. Guests' private wine cases for wine that they bottled on the estate are shown in the photo.

On a final note, for those interested in the privacy of a villa with the amenities of a full-service resort, Castiglion del Bosco maintains nine villas, which are scattered over its vast estate.