Back to Tuscany for wine and cheese!

Friday 10/25

Took a day trip back into Tuscany, actually only an 1.5 hr drive through beautiful, though winding, country roads. First stop: Montalcino, home of the famous Brunello wines. We were happy to finally make it to a town on market day. Interesting that this market was more non-perishable goods such as clothing and household items, and only a few produce stands. Made our way to the Fortessa and the enoteca there to sample the Brunello. We both enjoyed the wine, and Gary also liked the "Ossi di Morti" cookies (bones of the dead), which evidently are popular in this region.

Montalcino Fortessa

Enoteca

Sampling the Montalcino Brunello 

We wandered into the centro storico the see colorful flags displayed from the various neighborhoods. Apparently they are preparing for an upcoming traditional archery competition.

Montalcino Centro Storico

Neighborhood flags...

...colorful viewing

I was particularly interested in getting to the Sant'Antimo Abbey, about 5 miles south of town, in time to hear the traditional Monk prayer-chanting. They pray many times per day, but only certain times are open to the public. The Abbey was founded in the 800's, and the existing church built in the 1200's. The grounds are beautiful, including some quite ancient olive trees (our guess 100 years?). During the prayers we were not permitted to take photos, but could sit and listen to their melodic Gregorian chant lasting about 15 minutes. It was quite fascinating.

Abbazia Sant'Antimo

Abbey built in 1200's 

Bucolic surroundings

Inside the Abbey

Ancient olive trees on the grounds

Next we drove to the Tuscan town of Pienza, famous for the local production of Pecorino cheese. Many cheese shops line the centro storico, and many owners are quite happy to cut a slice for tasting and tell you all about their products. We couldn't resist buying a few wonderfully delicious portions for our evening antipasto.

Cheese tasting

Lots to try!

One thing we've observed in these little towns is the abundance of little specialty shops for meats, produce, and bread. It seems that the locals, at least in these areas, obtain lot of their staples from these shops-what a great way to get your groceries!

Hams hanging along the wall

Fresh fruit looks appealing