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Discovering the Enchantment of History with Christine De Melo
A Friendship That Lasts Some friendships just stick with you. Christine is one of those wonderful people for me. We met years ago through...
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Mar 72 min read


From Scratch to Stunning: Glass Flower Frame
I recently met Rebecca at her and her husband's shop in San Miniato, Tuscany. I was simply strolling down the main street of the...
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Feb 281 min read


The Dying Art of Wood Carving in Florence and How One Carver Saved His Craft with Pasta!
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.
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Feb 72 min read


From fine wines to fine arts - a jeweller in Florence
Florence: Where timeless art meets fine jewelry. Discover masterful craftsmanship, from Renaissance-inspired pieces to modern treasures.
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Jan 102 min read


Driving a rental car in 2025 in Italy—things to know!
Explore Italy by car! Know key tips on licenses, insurance, city driving, ZTL zones, and enjoy scenic countryside routes stress-free.
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Jan 112 min read


A festive cheers from Florence!
Reflect on the year's journey with Grape Tours. Learn how our wine tours create meaningful experiences and promote sustainability.
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Dec 30, 20242 min read


The Fascinating World of Truffles
The Market Mystique Truffles are as elusive as their ephemeral aroma. At the annual November truffle market in San Miniato, famed for its...
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Dec 12, 20243 min read


Sipping my way through Sicily
Join me in Sicily for a flavorful journey through its stunning wines, iconic foods, and unforgettable culinary traditions! 🍷🍴
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Nov 17, 20241 min read


V for Vino and for Veneto
Discover Veneto’s wine gems! From Soave’s crisp whites to Valpolicella’s bold reds and Prosecco’s sparkle, explore wines, food, and charm!
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Oct 17, 20241 min read


Montalcino - walk around town with Laura
Explore Montalcino with Laura, a local expert and author, as she shares the history, culture, and magic of Brunello wine in this unique tour
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Aug 30, 20241 min read


Chianti Villages: Castellina
Discover Castellina in Chianti: a hilltop gem blending history, artisan shops, and breathtaking Chianti hill views—a must-visit in Tuscany!
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Aug 23, 20241 min read


Chianti Villages: Radda
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...
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Jul 19, 20241 min read


Italian Risotto story – and a delicious Risotto with cacio, pepe, and crunchy guanciale
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!
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Jul 13, 20243 min read


6 days wining & dining in Umbria & Le Marche!
Join our 6-day Umbria & Le Marche food & wine tour in June! Limited to 8 guests, explore stunning landscapes, vineyards, and local cuisine.
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Jul 4, 20241 min read


What's Cookin'?! Pancake Pasta
Testaroli (plural) is a traditional recipe from the Lunigiana region in northwestern Tuscany and in that same area crossing the border to Li
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Jun 22, 20242 min read


What's Cookin' at Campo Sasso?!
Here's a delicious recipe of Tortelli stuffed with Pecorino cheese served on a cream of cooked asparagus and raw asparagus garnishing....
Rebecca Gouttenoire
May 17, 20242 min read


Fixer to Fabulous - Italiano
Dave, Jenny, Rebecca, Pierre I've met such amazing people over the years doing wine tours, it truly is magical! My husband, Pierre, for...
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Feb 16, 20242 min read


Unveiling the secrets of Pasta
Pasta holds a revered place in culinary traditions worldwide, with consumption spanning over 200 countries. In Italy, pasta reigns...
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Feb 10, 20243 min read


Coffee culture in Florence with Serena
"Prendiamo un caffè?" – "Care for a coffee?" In Italy, anyone you encounter will probably extend an invitation for an espresso. Coffee,...
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Jan 26, 20242 min read


A Tuscan Fiasco
The word fiasco in Italian is equivalent to a fiasco in English, unless we're referring to the fiasco Toscano, the "Tuscan Wine Flask" —...
Rebecca Gouttenoire
Jan 21, 20242 min read
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