Month: August 2023

No journey to Italy is complete without walking sun drenched vineyards and sipping limited edition vintages. For a taste of Tuscany to savor forever you’re invited to the charming Guardastelle Estate in San Gimignino to join the owners for a personal and private wine tasting tour.

We had the privilege to speak with Fausto, owner and wine producer of the Guardastelle Estate to learn what goes into producing a certified wine, harvest predictions and how to perfect the art of wine tasting.

Discover this on: Ultimate Italy

Exclusive wine, with a personal touch

“Guardastelle Estate is considered one of the smallest establishments in the area,” Fausto explains. “We have 12 acres of vineyards plus five acres of olive trees from which we also produce extra virgin olive oil.

“We produce five wines in small quantities so, we are very exclusive. For two of our vintages, we produce about 6000 bottles each, and only 3000 for the other three types. And they are only available here – you won’t find our wines in stores, restaurants or the nearest town.

“At Guardastelle, as a boutique winery we’ve always been focused on people coming to our farm, to see firsthand the vineyards and try the wines. Each bears the DOCG certification, a sign of excellence and the most important certification of Italian wines.”

For travel inspiration read our Italy destination guide

DOCG – the elite classification

DOCG or Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita is the is the highest classification Italian wines can be awarded. The classification means that there are controlled production methods (controllata) and guaranteed wine quality (garantita) with each bottle.

This includes regulations such as no irrigation, maximum vineyard elevation, and regulations on ageing and maximum alcohol levels.

A private tour

As a guest of Luxury Gold, you’ll enjoy a private tour of the vineyards and the wine cellar. You’ll hear all about the production process and enjoy a taste of Tuscany. “We’ll explain what kind of varieties we have, and why we have these varieties relating to the certification to the DOCG and part of the production.

“For the tasting we present three wines from the current the vintage. These are usually the three DOCGs – the vernaccia white wine which is the local specialty, and the chiantis.”

You may also enjoy: Making it personal: How Travel Concierge Anna elevates your Italy experience

A boutique family business

“This is a family business, so we are involved in all the processes since from the winemaking to the tasting,” says Fausto. “This also dictates how to make the wines. We are a very small farm, so it is not possible to harvest the grapes with the machine for example, so we do it by hand.”

“We’ve no official record but architects say that the farmhouse is probably from the middle of the 1400’s. This is because that the walls were made with a specific technique which is the same used to build the famous towers of San Gimignano town.

“My wife’s family purchased it in the middle of the 1980’s. From the young age of 21, she restarted the vineyard and wine production with three classic DOCG wines that she has now produced for almost 30 years. The estate has also produced extra virgin olive oil from the start.

“In 2017 we started to work on a couple of new wines which were born in 2021. So now we have the five typologies of wines.”

You may also like: This little gelateria in San Gimignano may just serve the best gelato in all of Italy

True Chianti and Vernaccia

“San Gimignano is in the chianti wine region, a wine which has been produced in Italy for about five centuries,” says Fausto. “To preserve the original characteristics of Italian winemaking and its wines, the government introduced regulations to keep a high standard quality product. This is the DOCG and is the certification that allows us to call our wine chianti.”

“Chianti must be made with a minimum of 75% of Sangiovese (a grape), and then there are few other varieties that we are allowed to use to blend. Even though it is possible to make a chianti from 100% Sangiovese, usually they are made with a blend of grapes.”

All the wines produced by Tenuta Guardastelle bear this important DOCG certification. Some 78 red wines across Italy (including chianti) are on the list. There is however only one white wine included, the Vernaccia di San Gimignano.

Vernaccia di San Gimignano is a native grape variety with ancient historical origins. Renowned for its remarkable ageing capacity, it makes an excellent aperitif, pairs well with legumes and is exquisite with white meats.

You may also like: Harry’s Bars: The Story of Europe’s Two Most Glamorous Watering Holes

Manual harvest

“The DOCG regulations do not dictate how to harvest, whether by hand or machinery, or how to press the grapes. So, these methods depend entirely on the size of the farm,” Fausto explains.

“As we are small, we do a manual harvest, which is also better anyway for the grape’s quality. This helps to produce a natural, rather high sugar content in the berries, so that the DOCG standards are easily met.”

You may also enjoy: Award-winning Argentine wines you must try on your next trip

It’s all in the timing

“The DOGC does regulate the days that you can harvest, although the time frame is very large. The time to harvest is dependent on the varieties and it depends a lot on the weather,” Fausto says. “We know by the experience that the harvest time is around the beginning of September for the white grapes and middle third week of September for the red varieties.

“So, a few days before the planned harvest we start to control the grapes. We go in the vineyards and pick a few from all over the field. The grapes are then mixed together, because different parts of the vineyards can have slightly different maturation, before making an average of the sugar content.”

“We also taste them – with experience you know from their softness if they’re ready. Then we look at the weather forecast to see that maybe these grapes need a week but if the weather is going to be bad, then we may need to harvest them in a couple of days.

“This, a taste of Tuscany, is probably one of the best parts. Because it’s almost ready. It’s such a great feeling – every year is a new project with a new vintage.”

You may enjoy: The ultimate Luxury Gold souvenir guide to Europe

Time to mature – a unique minerality

“Some of these wines take up to three years to be ready,” Fausto explains. “So, we will harvest the year’s vintages around the start of October, and the white will start to serve as a wine tasting in almost two years. And the Chianti about four years.

“This is our personal choice because of the composition of the soil. Here the soil has a high minerality that gives a very high freshness to the wine, so it needs longer to mature.

“So, for example, not all the vernacchio’s of the area are the same, and we usually don’t have the youngest of the vernacchio possible to taste. Because the other Tuscan wineries and vineyards don’t have such a high minerality, the life of their vernaccio is much shorter.”

You may also enjoy reading: Wine and Dine: A Guide to Private Wine Pairing in Italy’s Most Exquisite Vineyards

Tasting tips

“We always guide guests through the tasting, a taste of Tuscany” says Fausto. “We explain the three types of analysis. First is the visual, to check the color if the wine is clear or cloudy, and we show you how to do it with the white napkin on the back of the glass.

“Then comes smell. Here we don’t say everything because we could stay a full day talking about it! We do tell you the categories that you can smell in a wine, depending on the variety. For example, vegetables or fruit. Then lastly, we have taste and we help you get deeper into the analysis. Every wine actually had different characteristics, or even if similar there are always some slight differences.

You may also like: Dive into luxury at these incredible hotel pools

Practice makes perfect

“Wine tasting is like learning a new language,” Fausto concludes. “You need to train and to try many different wines to try to understand the different flavors and tastes that different varieties can produce. The characteristics of, for example, a Chardonnay grape, when grown in Tuscany or other parts of Italy or the world are not the same. So keep practicing!”

To delight in a taste of Tuscany for yourself in this stunning chianti wine region, take a look at our Ultimate Italy small group journey

Europe is a treasure trove of luxury handcrafted products, from the haute couture houses of Paris to the artisans of Italy using ancient techniques. Each product tells a story of the region’s history, tradition and craftsmanship and is a beautiful way to remember your travels through the different corners of Europe. But with so many different crafts and products, what should you really buy? The Luxury Gold souvenir guide to Europe is a great place to start. From crystal and jewelry to clothing and decor to chocolate and wine, dive into our souvenir guide and discover some of the most exceptional and authentic luxury souvenirs to buy at the source in Europe. 

Swiss watches – Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva has remained the heartbeat of the watchmaking industry since the 16th century.

Where to buy

Patek Philippe and Rolex are two titans calling Switzerland home. Vacheron Constantin is also renowned for its intricate designs, exemplary craftmanship and precise timekeeping.

Read more: Roger Federer, Trevor Noah and the timeless beauty of Switzerland

Waterford crystal – Waterford, Ireland

Since the 18th century, the city of Waterford has been synonymous with world-class crystal work.

Where to buy

The Waterford Crystal factory is the very best place to buy authentic Waterford crystal from the source.

French perfume – Grasse, France

Famed as the perfume capital of the world, Grasse is nestled in the hills of the French Riviera.

Where to buy

Visit the world-famous Fragonard, the French perfumery establish in 1926 in Grasse. Here you can develop your own custom fragrance that captures your essence. Global luxury fashion houses Chanel and Dior have their roots in Grasse, producing iconic fragrances.

Belgian chocolate – Brussels, Belgium

No European souvenir guide is complete without chocolate – and Brussels is globally acclaimed for its superior chocolate production.

Where to buy

Godiva and Neuhaus are the shining stars of Belgian chocolates. You might also like to purchase a bespoke chocolate box from Belgian chocolatier Pierre Marcolini.

Read more: Where to find the world’s best hot chocolate

Scandinavian furniture – Copenhagen, Denmark

Embracing minimalism, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, the Scandinavian design movement of the mid-20th century redefined modern interiors.

Where to buy

Denmark’s Fritz Hansen and Carl Hansen & Søn are iconic brands representing luxurious design and comfort. A favorite piece is the Wishbone Chair by Hans J. Wegner, as it embodies the elegance and functionality of Scandinavian design. 

Italian leather – Florence, Italy

Tuscany, particularly Florence, has been synonymous with premium leather goods and craftsmanship since the Middle Ages.

Where to buy

Since the iconic Gucci brand was established in Florence in 1921, it has become a global luxury icon. You can also find luxury leather shoes, bags, belts & accessories from this Ferragamo, a renowned luxury Florentine fashion house.

You can also visit the historic Scuola del Cuoio (School of Leather) in Florence. Not only can you purchase handcrafted leather items, but you can also watch artisans at work, keeping alive age-old techniques.

Read more: Forget bricks and mortar: 7 luxury fashion brands that have branched into experiential hospitality

Scottish whisky – Scotland

There are a few different European liquors included in this souvenir guide, including Scotland’s famous whisky. The country’s pristine waters and unique climate have given birth to the world’s most acclaimed whiskies.

Where to buy

Scotland is home to five whisky regions – Campbeltown, Highland, Islay, Lowland and Speyside – each offering a different spin on this beloved dram. In Speyside, visit the legendary like Macallan and Glenfiddich. Indulge in a whisky tasting at Balvenie, one of the few distilleries still practicing traditional whisky-making methods from malting the barley to bottle. If you prefer smoky whiskies, head to Laphroaig and Ardbeg distilleries in Islay. 

Read more: The Luxury Gold guide to the finest Michelin star restaurants in Edinburgh

British tailoring – Savile Row, London, England

Tucked away in Mayfair, Savile Row is the mecca of bespoke tailoring with a history dating back to the 18th century. Visit this iconic street when you embark on one of our luxury England vacations.

Where to buy

Prestigious houses like Gieves & Hawkes, Holland & Sherry, and Henry Poole & Co. have dressed royalty, celebrities and dignitaries. For a blend of traditional and modern design, consider Ozwald Boateng.

Read more: Our Favourite Legendary and Lesser-Known Shopping Streets

Dutch diamond jewelry – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam’s diamond district has been dazzling the world for over four centuries.

Where to buy

Gassan and Coster Diamonds offer breathtaking gemstones. You could also commission a unique piece from Royal Asscher, a brand with regal history.

Perugian textiles – Perugia, Italy

Set in the heart of Italy, Perugia is home to a rich history of textile weaving, especially famed for its intricate table linens and lacework. 

Where to buy

Many of the region’s fabrics are still handwoven by local artisans in small workshops. Visit the Giuditta Brozzetti Museum-Lab, on our Ultimate Italy tour, and see how master weaver Marta Cucchia is keeping this ancient tradition alive.

Read more: Travel Experiences that can change the world

Delftware – Delft, Netherlands

This iconic blue and white pottery has been crafted in the Dutch town of Delft since the 16th century.

Where to buy

Royal Delft is the leading brand preserving this age-old tradition, and you can buy beautiful hand-painted pieces here.

French skincare – Paris, France

France, particularly Paris, has been the epicenter of beauty and skincare for centuries. With a philosophy that prioritizes preventative care, French skincare is designed to nourish and protect the skin. When in France, indulging in its skincare isn’t just a purchase; it’s a ritual and an experience of beauty passed down through the ages.

Where to buy

Brands like Lancôme, Clarins and Caudalie have set international standards in skincare, with products sourced from the finest ingredients. You can also dive into the luxurious world of Biologique Recherche. Their personalized approach and their signature product, Lotion P50, have achieved cult status among skincare enthusiasts worldwide. For a truly authentic experience, visit their flagship spa in Paris and immerse yourself in a personalized skincare ritual.

Murano glass – Venice, Italy

Just off Venice, Murano Island has been the center of opulent glassmaking since the 13th century. You’ll experience a glass-blowing workshop in Murano on our Ultimate Italy tour.

Where to buy
Brands such as Barovier & Toso, Venini, and Seguso have been producing Murano glass for generations. You can also get custom pieces from master artisans such as Simone Cenedese or Pino Signoretto.

Read more: Masters at work: These artisanal jobs hark back to an older time

Norwegian knitwear – Oslo, Norway

With its chilly climate, Norway has developed a unique style of woollen knitwear, especially the iconic Norwegian sweaters. While these famous patterns and designs are copied around the world, you can’t beat the original and some of Norway’s most iconic brands cannot be found outside Scandinavia. 

Where to buy

Dale of Norway and Oleana are known for their traditional and luxurious knitwear. Marius, with its distinctive pattern, is another Nordic emblem.

Champagne – Champagne, France

Champagne is the only region in the world that produces authentic Champagne.

Where to buy

Dom Pérignon, Moët & Chandon, and Veuve Clicquot are legendary names, and you can also tour the cellars of Krug for a delightfully bubbly experience.

Read more: Best of the bubbles: the en vogue champagnes to sip this holiday season

Mozart Balls – Salzburg, Austria

Every good souvenir guide needs some sweet treats. Born in the Austrian town of Salzburg, these are delightful chocolate bonbons filled with marzipan and nougat.

Where to buy

Get your Mozart Balls at the original Salzburg Mozartkugeln by Fürst. They offer the most genuine experience of this sweet treat. 

Read more: From London to Tokyo: Where to sample the world’s best street food

Camembert cheese – Camembert, France

This soft, creamy cheese hails from the town of Camembert in Normandy. As raw milk cheese is illegal in the US, You can’t find authentic camembert in the United States since raw milk cheese is illegal there, so if you want to taste the real thing, be sure to pick some up in France. 

Where to buy

You can source genuine “Camembert de Normandie” anywhere in the town of Camembert, but ensure it bears the AOC/AOP label.

Read more: Top Vacation Spots for Cheese Lovers

English bone china – Stoke-on-Trent, England

The potteries in Stoke-on-Trent have been crafting fine china since the 17th century.

Where to buy

Wedgwood and Royal Doulton epitomize English elegance. You can also seek out hand-painted pieces from Spode.

Lindt chocolate – Zürich, Switzerland

Switzerland is a chocolate paradise and Lindt is a legend of its chocolate history. Now a globally adored brand, Lindt and its Sprüngli factory was founded in 1845 in Zurich. 

Where to buy

Head straight to Lindt’s Home of Chocolate in Zürich, where you’ll find the biggest Lindt Chocolate Shop in the world. You should also visit Confiserie Sprüngli, loved for its luxurious chocolates and Luxemburgerli macarons.

Turkish rugs and carpets – Istanbul, Turkey

Turkey is one of the best places in the world to buy textiles and carpets, with a rich heritage in carpet weaving dating back to the Seljuk era. 

Where to buy

Hereke, Isparta and Milas are iconic names in Turkish carpet-making, with intricate designs narrating unique stories.

Read more: Hiding in Plain Sight: Incredible Artworks You Can Discover at Luxury Gold Hotels

Bohemian crystal – Bohemia, Czech Republic

The Bohemia region of the Czech Republic has a sparkling history of producing high-quality crystal since the 13th century.

Where to buy

Moser and Preciosa are pioneers in Czech crystal craft. You can also find mesmerizing artisanal pieces at Rückl Crystal.

Read more: The Luxury Gold guide to discovering statement art pieces on your travels

Port wine – Douro Valley, Portugal

This beloved fortified wine is exclusively produced in the Douro Valley, making it the very best place to buy port wine at the source.

Where to buy
Head to the historic houses of Taylor’s and Sandeman or pick up a vintage bottle from Quinta do Noval.

Read more: Harry’s Bars: The Story of Europe’s Two Most Glamorous Watering Holes

Saffron – La Mancha, Spain

The Spanish La Mancha region is renowned for its high-quality saffron, the world’s most prized spice. The region uses traditional methods of harvesting and roasting which all give the saffron its distinct quality. While saffron is notoriously expensive, you can find authentic saffron here for a fraction of US prices in Spain.  

Where to buy

You can find saffron at local farmer’s markets. Look for the “D.O. Azafrán de La Mancha” which certifies the authenticity and supreme quality of the saffron.

Amber – Gdańsk, Poland

Nicknamed the amber capital of the world, Gdańsk is the heart of the amber-rich Baltic coast.

Where to buy

You’ll find dozens of boutiques selling amber in Gdańsk. Fir handcrafted amber jewelry, head to Art7, known for authenticity and design.

Cognac – Cognac, France

From the town bearing its name, Cognac is France’s most luxurious brandy. If you’re a Cognac fan, be sure to buy it at the source on your next trip to France.

Where to buy

Global icons like Hennessy, Rémy Martin, and Courvoisier have defined the essence of Cognac. Rémy Martin, in particular, produces the only Fine Champagne Cognac. You can also visit the exceptional Delamain, which offers vintages and blends that are a connoisseur’s dream.

Read more: Our Favorite Classic Cocktails, and the Timeless Hotels To Try Them At

Portuguese cork – Algarve, Portugal

With more than a third of Portugal covered in cork oak trees, it makes sense that it’s the world’s largest producer of cork, with Algarve at its heart. The material is used for everything from plugging wine bottles to luxury goods like bags and home decor. 

Where to buy

Pelcor and Artipel are known for transforming cork into luxury goods. Rutz is another brand creating vegan cork footwear, blending sustainability with style.

Swarovski crystal – Wattens, Austria

Founded in 1895, the iconic crystal producer Swarovski transformed crystal into a brilliant industry in Austria.

Where to buy

Visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens for a dazzling and immersive crystal experience.

Olive oil – Crete, Greece

While you can find premium locally-grown olive oil all over Greece, the sun-kissed groves of Crete produce some of the world’s finest olive oils.

Where to buy

You’ll find several family-owned olive oil estates across the island. Head to the town of Kolymvari, which produces the koroneiki olive, harvested from centuries-old olive groves. Olive oil producers here even hold the PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) certificate. 

Read more: Pearls of the Adriatic: Step Aboard Europe’s Most Glamorous Cruise

German craft beer – Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria, the heartland of German beer culture, is home to Brauerei Weihenstephan, the world’s oldest still-operating brewery.

Where to buy

Breweries like Weihenstephaner and Erdinger offer traditional Bavarian flavors. You can even purchase a limited edition brew from G. Schneider & Sohn, the masters of wheat beer.

Spanish leather – Ubrique, Spain

Ubrique has a rich history in leather craftsmanship, known for its superior quality.

Where to buy

Loewe and Castañer both have Spanish roots, creating excellent leather products.

Discover all the destinations included in this souvenir guide at Luxury Gold.

The home of country music, jazz, blues and rock ‘n’ roll, the sounds of the south USA are instantly recognisable and conjure up fond memories. Combined with a rich historical narrative of riveting and poignant tales, this region makes for an unforgettable destination.

Here, Travel Concierge Ann shares with us her love and passion, both for the Southern states and her guests, along with her highlights of Southern Grace, a luxurious journey from Nashville to New Orleans.

“Southern hospitality and southern manners are real. Everyone is made to feel very welcome, and each location is incredibly unique and fascinating,” she tells us. “We stay in four different cities. Each has its own unique culture, identity, history, music, cuisine and vibe.”

The beauty of the southern states, elevated

So much more than a tour guide, Ann is your personal destination expert, tailoring your journey every step of the way. With 22 years of experience, and a deep knowledge of the Southern states, she tells us why the role of a Travel Concierge so special.

“I’m available 24/7, ready to offer advice, solve any problem or answer any questions. And, no matter what piques a guest’s interest, I use my expertise and experience to personalize their tour.”

With more one-on-one time with each guest, due to our small group journeys, your Luxury Gold Travel Concierge is able to get to know you intimately. “Whatever you’re interested in, maybe a particular type of museum, cuisine or activity, I’ll find something for you, tailoring your free time to match your needs.”

Discover this on: Southern Grace

America’s musical identity, made personal

“The states that we visit on Southern Grace all played a really big role in southern culture and the music that America listens to,” Ann explains of the sounds of the south. “What a treat to see the birthplaces of country music, rock ‘n roll, blues and jazz.

Exceptional and exclusive music of the south experiences feature throughout the tour, setting the rhythm and soundtrack of your journey.

“I’m very interested in music and its history,” she says. “Everywhere we go in the south, there’s certain genres that are popular and famous in that area. So, as we pass through, I will play that kind of music and talk about its relation to the history of the region.”

“I love setting contests for guests to guess music and lyrics. It’s very upbeat and provides a contrast to some of the darker history of this area, which we also examine in depth at points on this tour. I want guests to feel educated but entertained at the same time.”

For travel inspiration: USA destination guide

Your song recorded for all time at Nashville’s Studio B

“Our music experiences are top drawer, and a chance for our group to record a song at Studio B is a very exclusive experience,” says Ann. This famous studio is where Dolly Parton, Elvis, The Everly Brothers, Charlie Pride have all recorded, icons of the sounds of the south. “When you visit, you know you are standing where musical icons once stood. You’re standing on hallowed ground.

A CD is pressed for each guest as a treasured keepsake of their recording. “This is one of those special things that Luxury Gold does,” says Ann. “Hundreds of people that go through Studio B every day, but only exclusive groups are able to do their own recording. Realistically, we sound pretty bad,” she laughs, “but it is so much fun!”

Read more about icons of the sounds of the south: Brenda Lee: The pop icon who inspired some of the biggest names in music

Best seats in the house at the Grand Ole Opry

“A slice of music history, the Grand Ole Opry has been going strong for 102 years,” Ann tells us. And when you are there, you realize why. A live radio programme and a variety show, the quality is unmatched, and it remains a flagship sounds of the south venue.

“With Luxury Gold we have amazing seats and guests are mesmerized from the beginning,” she says. “The cool thing about the Grand Ole Opry is that they have modern country, old country, bluegrass and gospel. They might have some rock or a comedian mixed in. It’s an amazing variety show, and for many, the highlight of the tour.”

Pay homage to ‘The King’ at Graceland

“Going to Graceland is really a meaningful thing for people to do, almost a pilgrimage, even for those that were not fans of Elvis’ music,” Ann says. “It’s a very personal tour, going through his home, as it was in the 1970s. You get a glimpse into what life was like at home for such an iconic figure.

“We also visit the famous Sun studios in Memphis, known worldwide as ‘The Birthplace of Rock’n’roll’. It is the discovery location of musical legends and genres of the 50’s from B.B. King and Elvis Presley to Johnny Cash and Jerry Lee Lewis; from Blues and Gospel to Country and Rock’n’roll.”

You might be interested to read: Why a Luxury Gold Tour is Perfect for Families with Grown-up Children

Gastronomic delights, tailored for you

“The southern states are a foodies dream, and the cuisine varies a lot on this south USA tour,” Ann explains. “In Nashville, hot chicken is really famous, and you must try a real sweet confection called the Goo Goo Cluster. Once you get to Memphis, it’s all about BBQ – the sizzling sounds of the south. And then in New Orleans, it’s the famous jambalaya, gumbo and crawfish.”

A keen lover of gastronomy herself, Ann’s passion and knowledge enhances your dining experience every day. From carefully chosen restaurants and dining experiences, to expert suggestions in your free time, she’ll ensure your culinary journey is tailored, satisfying and explorative.

“In both Memphis and New Orleans, guests have free evenings. For these I have a hand-picked selection of great restaurants that they can easily walk to. Anything I recommend I have been to myself, so I know it is of the highest standards of food and service. I’ll have menus ready for you to sample and will make the reservations. I’m all about the details and will even walk you there if you want.”

Hear from another of our Travel Concierges: French connection: Travel Concierge Arsen on sophisticated Eastern Canada

VIP BBQ to fine dining

“One highlight culinary experience, in Memphis, is our backstage pass to one of the city’s oldest and most iconic BBQ establishments,” says Ann. “Central BBQ is so acclaimed, the line goes stretches out of the door. However, in true Luxury Gold style, we’re greeted and ushered straight into our own private dining room.”

“After a wonderful BBQ lunch, your grilling expert is waiting to meet you. You’ll leave understanding why BBQ is so important here and very different than it is in other parts of the United States.

“In contrast, when we dine at the sumptuous Monmouth plantation, we dress up to the nines. The stunning dining room makes you feel like you are stepping into the old South. There is such wonderful attention to detail in the preparation of food and how it is served.”

Chic cocktails to Personalize Your Day

“Cocktails are a big deal in the south, and Bourbon is of course a very southern alcohol,” Ann says. “Having an elegant drink before dinner, not just beer or wine, is very much part of the culture.”

To embrace this decadent slice of culture, while in Natchez you can learn from a master with a mixology class at Dunleith Historic Inn. Alternatively, you can choose to take a private tour of the grounds and interior of a stunning antebellum mansion. Just one example of the frequent opportunities on Southern Graceto personalize your day.

Here you have the choice between two experiences, both thoughtfully curated with the Luxury Gold guest in mind. “Each offers a different lens through which to explore your destination,” says Ann, “and offers a further opportunity to tailor your tour.”

You might enjoy: 9 essential cocktails to drink (and where to drink them) in New Orleans

An intimate look into history

Along with its musical history and exceptional cuisine, the American South has a deep and often dark history to tell. And on Southern Grace there are opportunities to explore these historical sounds of the south through intimate and moving experiences, guided both by Ann’s historical knowledge, and by Local Experts.

Prior to the American Civil War (11861 – 1865), the Southern states heavily relied on an agrarian economy built on large-scale plantation agriculture, primarily cotton. This reliance led to a massive demand for slave labor. Subsequently leading to the expansion of the transatlantic slave trade and the establishment of a brutal system of human bondage. As tensions escalated between the Southern slaveholding states and the Northern non-slaveholding states, the issue of slavery became a primary catalyst for the Civil War.

You might be interested to read: All Natural: Meet the Woman Safeguarding the Mississippi Delta

Frogmore plantation

“Covering 1800 acres Frogmore is a cotton plantation that dates back to the 19th Century. The family that now owns it are focused on educating people,” says Ann. “Not just how they raise cotton then compared to now, but also educating on what was life was like for slaves. The owner, Lynette Tanner, has edited a book all about slave life. Over 2000 former slaves were interviewed in the 1930s, and so she’s edited this book offering a personal and intimate insight into what life was actually like.”

“Frogmore is still a very successful cotton operation, and cotton is such an important crop. It kind of built the South and so learning more about it is very fitting when you are visiting the region.”

All bookended with magnificent stays

Exceptional days turn into decadent nights, with spectacular hotels providing an oasis of rest and elegance. From the national landmark Monmouth Inn in Natchez to the timeless sophistication of the Ritz Carlton in New Orleans, rest assured that your luxury experience continues 24/7. With our porterage your luggage will be in your room when you arrive, and your room keys ready and waiting.

“The Peabody Hotel in Memphis is outstanding,” says Ann. “Built in 1925, it’s on the National Register of Historic Places. You know you are someplace special when you step inside, it’s jaw-dropping. And you are sure to enjoy the ‘March of the Peabody Ducks’. This daily, whimsical event really delights our guests.”

“Elegant in every way, the Ritz Carlton in New Orleans is a magnificent hotel. A live jazz trio plays every evening in the bar. With three nights here, some people never want to leave. They have such a great time right here at the hotel!

“Monmouth Historic Inn in Natchez is an exquisite example of an antebellum mansion. Each room unique with period furnishings, you feel like you’ve stepped back into the 1800s when you arrive. Quiet, peaceful, tasteful, elegant. It’s a kind of respite from the big cities of Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans.”

Learn more about this magnificent hotel: Why New Orleans’ Ritz Carlton Hotel is a cut above the rest

To experience the sounds of the south for yourself on our luxurious south USA tour, take a look at our Southern Grace small group journey.