Today we are off to learn about cheese and wine (yes – more wine). Our destination for cheese is in the Val d’Orcia valley near Pienza. It is a local farm called Podere Il Casale https://www.facebook.com/podereilcasale.pienza
We sat in the dining room as Ulisse explained to us the process of making “pecorino” sheep cheese. The amazing part was as he explained – he was also making a round of cheese. He was very gentle and methodical in the process. By the time he was finished explaining he had a block of cheese. Of course it had to be aged but it was pretty neat to see the process. We also got to sample cheeses that had been aged for various periods. Did you know that cheese is great dipped in honey and / or flavoured mustards. Who would have thought! (note – yes there are bottles of wine on the table!)
We then headed out to where he actually makes and stores the cheese.
No matter where you go in the Tuscany region – you have amazing views. This is the view from their farm.
And here are our hosts Sandra and Ulisse.
We then headed to the town of Pienza.
After Pienza we visited the Altesino Wine Estate near Montalcino.
http://www.altesino.it/eng/azienda.php
It is harvest time in wine country – the best time to visit.
Here is the group sampling the wine and some pictures of the view from the winery.
We then headed into the town of Montalcino.
Cheryl, Kathy and Brenda.
So far we have lucked out on weather. Today there was rain in the forecast. Luckily it only rained when we were on the bus going back to the hotel. Every time we left the bus to visit a town, farm, winery – the sun came out.
Tomorrow we leave the Relais Borgo di Cortefreda Hotel for Florence.
PS… Apologies – I think I am four days behind in the blog – it had been a busy few days.
Thanks for stopping by,
Elizabeth, Your Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
www.StampScrapAndMore.com