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.”

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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.”

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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.

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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.”

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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.”

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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.

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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

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.”

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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.

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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.

Crafted with love, skill and precision, classic cocktails have stood the test of time. Their allure lies in their balanced flavors and the artistry of mixology, and each has a story to tell. As you put the glass to your lips, you’re instantly transported to a bygone era of glamour and refinement. And to sip classic cocktails in some of the world’s most magnificent hotels just further elevates the experience.

To tantalize your palate and stir your wanderlust, we’ve selected some of our favorite classic cocktails, and paired them with some truly exquisite hotels.

Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest cocktails, dating back to the early 1800s. Exuding sophistication and simplicity, it embodies the essence of classic mixology with its straightforward, time-tested recipe.

The recipe typically calls for bourbon or rye whiskey, muddled sugar, aromatic bitters and a twist of citrus rind. Served over ice in a rocks glass, the Old Fashioned offers a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness, accentuated by the whiskey’s rich flavors.

There’s no better place to sit back and enjoy an Old fashioned than in the Southern United States, the birthplace of bourbon. And there’s no hotel quite like the Ritz Carlton in New Orleans.

Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, the Ritz Carlton epitomizes Southern elegance and charm. And the hotel’s bars feature skilled mixologists whose attention to detail and the use of high-quality ingredients ensures that each cocktail is a work of art.

While you enjoy your Old Fashioned, bartenders will share stories about the history of classic cocktails and the role of New Orleans in their evolution. So sit back, enjoy and see why this iconic drink has stood the test of time.

Sip an Old Fashioned at the Ritz Carlton on: Southern Grace

Read more: Why New Orleans’ Ritz Carlton Hotel is a cut above the rest

Negroni

Originating in Florence, Italy, the Negroni is closely linked to the Italian aperitivo culture. Legend has it that the cocktail was invented in the early 20th century when Count Camillo Negroni asked a bartender to strengthen his Americano by adding gin.

Brandishing a brilliant red hue and bittersweet flavor profile, the Negroni offers a combination of herbal, citrusy and aromatic notes. Its simple yet bold composition, traditionally equal parts gin, Campari and sweet vermouth, creates a perfectly balanced aperitif.

To enjoy your Negroni in the perfect setting, head to the Hotel Montebello Splendid. Centrally located in the heart of Florence, this elegant five-star hotel occupies a charming 19th-century villa that exudes glamour and grandeur.

The hotel’s rooftop pool bar offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence’s skyline. Enjoy your Negroni while basking in the sun against a stunning backdrop of Florence’s iconic landmarks, such as the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio and the surrounding Tuscan hills.

Savor a Negroni at the Hotel Montebello Splendid on: Ultimate Italy

You might also be interested to read: Making it personal: How Travel Concierge Anna elevates your Italy experience

Sidecar

@saintjamesparis

While the exact origins of the Sidecar are somewhat disputed, the prevailing narrative credits its creation to Harry MacElhone, an American bartender who worked at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris.

According to the story, the Sidecar was allegedly invented around the end of World War I when a patron arrived at the bar in a motorcycle sidecar. The drink was then named after the vehicle. MacElhone is said to have refined the recipe, using Cognac or brandy, Cointreau, and lemon juice in equal parts, creating the classic Sidecar we know today.

A stunning Parisian setting to enjoy your Side Car, and other classic cocktails, is the St James. Paris’ only chateau hotel, this is an architectural jewel tucked away in the city’s most exclusive district, the 16th. Its bar is sumptuous, filled with greenery, wood paneling, cozy velvets and worn leathers. Renowned for its mixology, this is one of the ultimate meeting places in the city, for both Parisians and those from far flung places.

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Caipirinha

Refreshing and vibrant, the Caipirinha hails from Brazil and has become a very popular cocktail. It’s the national drink of Brazil and is deeply rooted in the country’s culture and traditions. Not only invigorating, it is hailed as one of the best classic cocktails for celebrating warm, sunny days.

The primary ingredient of a Caipirinha is cachaça, a Brazilian spirit made from sugarcane juice. Blended with lime and sugar, it is typically served over crushed ice. To prepare a Caipirinha, lime wedges are muddled with sugar in a glass, and then cachaça and ice are added. The result is a delightful balance of sweet, tart and boozy flavors. You can also enjoy numerous variations, with passion fruit or strawberries often used to mix it up.

@belmondcopacabanapalace

Where better to enjoy a glass that the Belmond Copacabana Palace in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Situated on the world-famous Copacabana Beach, the hotel has been an emblem of elegance and sophistication since its opening in 1923.

Its architecture reflects a blend of classical European style with touches of Brazilian charm, set behind an impressive façade. The interiors are adorned with exquisite furnishings and artwork. Relax, enjoy the sunshine and a Caipirinha, as numerous celebrities, politicians and dignitaries have done over the years.

Enjoy a Caipirinha at the Belmond Copacabana Palace on: Classic South America

 You may also like to read: 7 Luxury Gold hotels that have hosted royals, celebrities and more

Manhattan

While it has become a global icon, the Manhattan has strong associations with the bustling borough of New York City. And for the most iconic setting to enjoy this classic cocktail head to the Park Lane New York hotel, and its Darling rooftop lounge. Located on the 47th floor, the Darling offers a stunning backdrop of the Manhattan skyline and an elevated cocktail menu.

It is said that the key to a perfect Manhattan lies in finding the right balance between the whiskey’s richness and the sweetness of the vermouth. The traditional recipe adds a few dashes of aromatic bitters, and its usually garnished with a maraschino cherry or a twist of orange peel. Over the years, variations of the Manhattan have emerged, with some people preferring bourbon instead of rye whiskey, or opting for dry vermouth to create a drier version.

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Martini

The Martini is one of the most iconic and enduring cocktails in the world of mixology. Made with gin and dry vermouth, stirred with ice, you’ll find it served in a chilled cocktail glass, garnished with a green olive or a twist of lemon peel.

A cocktail of strength and clarity, the exact origins of the Martini are somewhat debated. But historians believe that it evolved from a late 19th-century mix of gin and vermouth. Over the years, the Martini has inspired various interpretations and modifications. This has led to the creation of famous variations like the Vodka Martini, the Dirty Martini and the Gibson.

Literature, film, and popular culture have also celebrated the Martini. Most notably by James Bond, who famously ordered his martinis “shaken, not stirred.” More than worthy of a Bond moment, the Grand Hotel Quisisana on Italy’s Isle of Capri is an exquisite hotel in which to enjoy a sip of this classic cocktail.

5-star luxury in the heart of Capri town, the Quisisana is just a short walk from the famous Piazzetta. Surrounded by lush gardens and offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, it’s an enchanting retreat for the discerning traveler seeking elegance and relaxation.

Enjoy a Martini at the Quisisana Hotel on: Ultimate Italy

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Singapore Sling

@raffleshotelsingapore

The origins of the Singapore Sling are associated with the Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore. The cocktail was created by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon in the early 1900s, and quickly became a favorite among patrons. Today, the Singapore Sling remains a symbol of tropical indulgence and is enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.

This elegant cocktail is made a gin base spirit, along with pineapple juice, lime juice, cointreau and cherry liqueur. Some versions also include Bénédictine, grenadine, and Angostura bitters. Reddish-pink, it is typically served over ice in a tall glass and garnished with a slice of pineapple and a maraschino cherry.

The Raffles Hotel Singapore is still one of the most iconic luxury hotels in Asia. And the Long Bar is still in service. Meaning you can still enjoy this historic cocktail in old-world grandeur, dreaming of days gone past.

To savor classic cocktails around the world, we invite you to take a look at our exquisite collection of small group luxury journeys.