Enchanted places: the Val d'Orcia.

The landscape of the Val d'Orcia is characterized by gentle hills, rows of cypress trees, vineyards, olive groves, and small medieval villages that dot the countryside. Some of the most famous locations include Pienza, Montalcino, and San Quirico d'Orcia.

The Val d'Orcia, besides being one of the most picturesque areas of Tuscany for its postcard-like landscapes, is also a land rich in culinary traditions and high-quality typical products.

Here, the bond between nature and culinary culture is deep, and every dish tells the story of a territory that has lived in harmony with its resources for centuries.

Let's discover together some of the typical products of this fantastic enchanted place.

The Brunello di Montalcino

One of the undisputed protagonists of the Val d'Orcia is wine; in particular, Montalcino is the birthplace of the famous Brunello di Montalcino, a robust and complex red wine considered one of the best in the world.

Obtained exclusively from Sangiovese grapes, Brunello requires long aging that gives it depth and refinement. The wine is a symbol of the winemaking mastery of the area, and a visit to Val d'Orcia would not be complete without a tasting at the historic wineries of Montalcino.

The Pecorino di Pienza

Another typical product of the Val d'Orcia is the Pecorino di Pienza, a cheese made from sheep's milk that boasts a millennia-old tradition.

The Pecorino di Pienza is distinguished by its intense and varied flavor, which can be sweeter or spicier depending on the aging process. This cheese, appreciated both fresh and aged, is perfect to enjoy alone or accompanied by honey and jams, perhaps with a good glass of red wine from the area.

The Extra Virgin Olive Oil

The extra virgin olive oil from Val d'Orcia is another treasure of the local gastronomy.

Thanks to the particularly suitable climate and soil for olive cultivation, the oil produced here is characterized by a fruity taste and a slightly spicy aftertaste, with notes of fresh grass and artichoke.

This oil is ideal for enhancing the flavors of simple dishes, such as the typical Tuscan bruschetta, but also for enriching salads and soups.

Pasta and Legumes

First courses also hold a prominent place in the culinary tradition of Val d'Orcia.

The pici, a handmade pasta similar to thick spaghetti, are typical of this area and are often dressed with simple yet flavorful sauces, such as the one made with aglione, a particularly fragrant type of garlic cultivated locally.

Legumes, such as spelt and zolfini beans, are also protagonists of genuine and nutritious dishes, perfect for rediscovering the authentic taste of peasant cuisine.

The Val d'Orcia is not just a place to visit, but an experience to live with all the senses, where every flavor and every landscape tell the authentic essence of the most genuine and enchanting Tuscany.