At This Italian Winery, the Architecture’s as Amazing as the Chianti
Antinori is one of the biggest names in Italian wine, but it’s not just the Chianti that’s drawing visitors to their hillside winery near the village of Bargino, 20 minutes outside Florence. The winemaker’s new state-of-the-art, cantilevered headquarters, Cantina Antinori, is luring architecture buffs who are as interested in the Archea-designed structure as they are in a fine Super Tuscan. Archea, one of Italy’s leading architecture firms, gave Antinori a space that both makes a statement, and alludes to the colors and terrain of the surrounding, gently hilly landscape. Here’s how to make a weekend out of your visit.
Stay
The new 41-room Castello di Casole occupies a restored tenth-century castle in the heart of Tuscany and is surrounded by 4,200 acres of vineyards and olive trees. Don’t leave before taking a plunge in the infinity pool overlooking the spectacular valley (888-548-9429; doubles from $440).
Eat
Oreade is the newest addition to Monteverdi, a collection of rental villas, a hotel, and a bar in the tiny hilltop hamlet of Castiglioncello del Trinoro. It has sweeping views of the Val d’Orcia and classic Tuscan dishes like bistecca alla fiorentina (Via di Mezzo 8; 39- 0578-268-146; entrées from $33).
Drink
The brainchild of the owners of Siena’s well-known Osteria le Logge restaurant, Un Tubo is part wine bar and part performing arts space tucked into an ancient cellar. There’s jazz, theater, and readings throughout the week (Via del Luparello 2, Siena).
Bring Back
The soft leather bags at Pienza’s Officine 904 are the embodiment of Tuscan artisanship (Via Dogali 16).
