Florentines may fall off their chairs when they hear this. But it’s true. The famous “lily” or "fleur-de-lis" of Florence — the one stamped on the city’s coat of arms, flying on flags, printed on football scarves, and baked into desserts — is not a lily at all . It’s an iris . A case of mistaken identity (for centuries) In Tuscany, you’ll often hear the flower called giaggiolo . Sometimes it’s casually referred to as a lily. But botanically, historically, and symbolically, Fl

Italian cuisine holds a special place in the world’s culinary landscape. Its rich flavors, time-honored dishes, and deep connection to local traditions have earned it global admiration. As UNESCO itself states, “cultural heritage consists not only of monuments and collections of objects, but also of living traditions passed down by our ancestors: oral expressions, performing arts, social practices, rituals and festivals, knowledge and practices concerning nature and the unive

If there's one thing you'll notice about wining and dining in Italy, it's that "Italian cuisine" is more of a myth than a menu. Instead, it's all about regional specialties, rooted in local products and humble beginnings. The Tuscan cuisine is known as "cucina povera," or the "poor people's kitchen." Back in the day, it was all about seasonal veggies and the rare appearance of meat. Nowadays, Tuscany's no longer poor and the markets are bursting with both local and exotic pro

A New Chapter for a Tuscan Classic: The Evolution of Chianti When you think of Chianti , you likely picture a ruby-red wine. Perhaps it’s in a traditional fiasco (the straw-covered bottle) served alongside a rustic Tuscan meal. For centuries, Chianti has been the quintessential everyday wine of Tuscany— dry, fruity, fresh, and moderately alcoholic . This makes it the perfect companion for a variety of dishes. But here’s an important detail: Chianti is not the same as Chianti

We’re thrilled to share some delicious news — we’ve launched a podcast called Life is Grape in Tuscany ! Your Insider Pass to Tuscany's Culinary Delights This podcast is your insider pass to all things food and wine in Tuscany. Whether you’ve strolled through Chianti’s vineyards or dream of one day doing so, this is your chance to dive deeper into the flavors, stories, and people that make this region so magical. We’ll connect with the passionate producers behind Tuscany’s wo

Italy is a country celebrated not only for its rich history but also for its world-renowned wines. With over 20 distinct regions , Italy...

If you're planning a day trip to explore Tuscany's wine country with Grape Tours, get ready for an unforgettable experience: rolling...

A Friendship That Lasts Some friendships just stick with you. Christine is one of those wonderful people for me. We met years ago through...

A Magical Encounter in San Miniato I recently met Rebecca at her and her husband's shop in San Miniato, Tuscany. While strolling down the...

Filippo belongs to what is likely the last wood-carvers in the city—a craft that once thrived but is now on the brink of extinction.

Florence: Where timeless art meets fine jewelry. Discover masterful craftsmanship, from Renaissance-inspired pieces to modern treasures.

Explore Italy by car! Know key tips on licenses, insurance, city driving, ZTL zones, and enjoy scenic countryside routes stress-free.

Reflect on the year's journey with Grape Tours. Learn how our wine tours create meaningful experiences and promote sustainability.

The Market Mystique Truffles are as elusive as their ephemeral aroma. At the annual November truffle market in San Miniato, famed for its...

Join me in Sicily for a flavorful journey through its stunning wines, iconic foods, and unforgettable culinary traditions! 🍷🍴

Discover Veneto’s wine gems! From Soave’s crisp whites to Valpolicella’s bold reds and Prosecco’s sparkle, explore wines, food, and charm!

Explore Montalcino with Laura, a local expert and author, as she shares the history, culture, and magic of Brunello wine in this unique tour

Discover Castellina in Chianti: a hilltop gem blending history, artisan shops, and breathtaking Chianti hill views—a must-visit in Tuscany!

Radda is one of those villages that will steal your heart! From its medieval history to its modern-day center for wine and tourism, it...

There are endless ways to cook up a great risotto. This is one of the best I've ever had! And it has NO butter!