Local foods
If you find yourself in the enchanting region of Lucca, Tuscany, you're in for a treat. The picturesque
landscapes, charming villages, and delightful local flavors make it a destination worth savoring.
Today, we embark on a journey through the heart of Lucca region to explore its rich wine and olive
oil culture.
There are plenty of wineries in Tuscany. The "Fattoria" label stands for the selection of
the best Italian wines. Not all wineries are allowed to carry this label. The most famous Tuscan wines
coming from the Chianti region.
Due to the popularity and import of grapes, there is unfortunately a lot of difference in quality in this region. Always go for a "Chianti Classico" which you can recognize by the black rooster on the label. A small more exclusive region is Montalcino, where the famous Brunello comes from.
But very good wines are also made in the north of Tuscany. Not always known to the general public. But definitely for fans. There are a few very good wineries around Montecarlo di Toscana. But Fattoria di Fubbiano and Fattoria Colleverde North of Lucca are my favorites.
Both are in the Tuscan hills 20 minutes from Lucca. Fattoria
Fubbiano is an absolute must. Next to the town of "San Gennaro", the family has been making wines,
olive oil and Aceto di Vino for a long time on 45 hectares. Both red and white.
"Grappa" is an extra during spring and summer. But you can't leave the olive oil and aceto either. They
also have a very nice B&B. Fattoria Colleverde, near Matraja is another winery, just down the road. I also visit this one
regularly on my way home form Lucca. They sell small amounts. This winery has been in the family for generations. You can
taste the love for the profession and the vineyard in the wine. Good quality at a nice price. Also here,
of course, olive oil, which you can't resist again.
You can go by car, scooter or bike. Getting there by e-bike is even better because the way
up to the vineyards is quite steep. I did the trip myself on a regular mountain bike, a few times, which is quite a
challenge.
You will pass numerous old villa’s, typical Tuscan landscapes and will have breathtaking
views on the Lucca area from the vineyards.
Another option is to do a wine tasting combined with typical local
products such as bruschetta, meats, cheeses and olive oil. The bike and wine tour is an absolute must
if you are in Lucca a few days.
Or for the more romantic among us, the same tour with a lunch included, in a Tuscan vineyard in the countryside. Bike, wine, lunch and head back to Lucca. The way back is downhill, so no problem if you drive back with some extra local wines for the dinner in Lucca.