’Tis the season…for making wine!

As the summer draws to a close, artists in the business of wine-making look towards the harvest and all of its associated traditions. At Creative Italy we thought it only fair we lead you by the nose in the right direction!

Where it all began

Italy is one of the biggest producers of wine worldwide, with wine being produced in the country for over 4000 years! Sicily is believed to be the first Italian region to practice the art of oenology, with wine production quickly spreading northwards through the country. Today all 20 Italian regions are listed as official producers of wine. A large number of grape varieties are indigenous to Italy. Let’s not forget, it was the Ancient Romans who worshiped Bacchus – god of wine!

The Art of wine making

Each vineyard has its own history, tied to its territory, geographical area and region. Understanding the characteristics of soil, cultivation of vines and not forgetting the all-important grape selection, requires incredible skill and artistry.

Harvest

Viticulture is the growth, cultivation and harvest of grapes – a way of life for artisan winemakers and oenologists. The harvest is the pinnacle of months of careful, precise, and focused devotion to the growth and nurture of vines.

In many towns and villages, the harvest is an event in which all play a part. Harvesting the grapes from the vines – often by hand ‘a mano’, forms part of an annual tradition. Above all its only natural that following such a labour-intensive activity, those involved would need to let their hair down and celebrate!

Try Our Experience

Accompanied by our handpicked artisan winemakers, study the history of the vines, and learn regional wine techniques. A unique wine making holiday, that takes you up close and personal, teaching the importance of manual dexterity and the land. The experience concludes with a degustation lunch with the winemakers.

The program can be customized according to the knowledge and needs of the participants.

• Minimum 2 pax
• Duration: 5 hours or more
• Where: Piedmont, Veneto, Tuscany, Umbria, Sicily, Franciacorta
• When: Throughout the year
• Depending on the season and the region of choice, the experience may be combined with a seasonal activity such as the grape harvest

While you are visiting…

Why not stop off in Taormina? If you are lucky enough to experience the Sicilian harvest season, pay a visit to the ultimate authentic artists’ retreat – Casa Cuseni. Built at the turn of the 20th Century, Casa Cuseni was frequented by artists and thinkers such as Pablo Picasso, Tennesse Williams and Bertrand Russell.

This ‘Cultural Park’ was designed by the artist Robert Kitson. Step into breath-taking gardens created by Sir Frank Brangwyn. Learn about the history and of course the cuisine of this unique artists’ retreat, in addition to taking in the turquoise sea-views!

Children can also learn and experience the best of local artisans at Feudo San Pietro in Milazzo, Sicily. This stunning historical residence dating back to the 15th Century is still owned by the descendants of Prince Spadafora. A painting workshop in the enchanting gardens of this residence, guided by local artists will create an unforgettable experience for young creatives!

Get in touch to book your next Italian holiday. In the spirit of wine making, try pairing your holiday with our Art of Making Wine experience!  We will guide you to experience, taste and discover Italy from a new perspective.

Contact us for more details!