Wine in Tuscany is like air to the body! Wine is an important staple of Italian culture and also an important part of mealtime.
The growing of grapes in Tuscany dates back as far as the time of Etruscan, which dates back to before Christ times. This is especially true of the Chianti vineyards. This long history of wine has created a medium-bodied red wine that is makes an excellent addition to most meals. However, there also are many other varieties that includes other red wines like Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. There also are white wines such as Vermentino and Vernaccia.
You may have heard of the Super Tuscan wines, which are now recognized as some of Italy best wines. They are quite complex and delicious. Dessert wines also are popular, such as vin santo. This lovely Tuscan dessert wine is popular and often enjoyed with delicious biscotti cookies.
Italians are quite fond of wine, which is served at all meals. But if you try to order a drink before dinner, you’ll be served light food with it, such as potato chips, nuts or other small delights. It’s extremely taboo in Italy to be inebriated in public, and it will be looked down upon. It’s important to understand this social norm there, as Italian culture may be seen as a bit more proper than what some travelers may be used to.
The name bar really is more than meets the eye for most Americans. The bars in Italy open very early and then stay open until the wee morning hours. They serve coffee, tea, soda pop and light foods such as sandwiches. They also serve alcohol, which, again, is always taken in Italy with food. These Italian bars are speedy and generally very well kept. Take note that if you sit down in a bar you’ll be charged more. Most Italians never sit in a bar and just stand to avoid the waiter charge. You may inquire if it’s the same price if you sit or stand before doing so.
In bars, however, smoking is banned. Smoking also is banned in most restaurants and cafes along with many other public places.
Bars not only serve alcohol they also serve coffee. If you ask for “un caffe” you’ll get an espresso. Cappuccino also is common, but locals only drink it in the morning.
If you want to order a glass of wine you ask for a “bicchiere.” Red is “rosso,” and white is “bianco.” You also can buy house wine in a carafe that’s a quarter of a liter.
