Located in the midsts of the vineyards that produce the world famous Chianti Classico, every September the picturesque town of Greve is transformed into a hub of activity for four days. Sixty-one Chianti Classico producers will set up stands in Greve’s main square, Piazza Matteotti, alongside a larger stand representing 32 other vineyards belonging to the Chianti Classico wine consortium.
The fair offers an opportunity for producers to talk about and pour their wines for guests. Other stands feature free tastings of local olive oil, salami and cheese. All the wines and specialty foods may be purchased to take home.
The €10 entry fee gives the visitor a wine glass and a punch card providing seven tastings (five at individual stands and two at the Consortium stand) plus a souvenir wine glass. Look out for riserva wines, which cost two punches in the card.
Special events include a concert at the historic Verrazzano winery, with a tour of the cellars and dinner (Fri. 9, 7:30 pm, reservations required at 055/854243); guided visits to the small parish churches and castles that are part of wine estates as well as local craft workshops close to Piazza Matteotti (Sat. 10, & Sun. 11, 4 pm, meeting point: Piazza Trento, reservations at info@discoverychianti.it or 328 612 4658); a nature walk (Sun. 11, 9 am, meeting point Piazza Trento, reservations at info@discoverychianti.it or 328 612 4658); in addition to the opening of the Church of Santo Stefano in the nearby medieval village of Montefioralle (Sat. 10 & Sun. 11, 11 am – 8 pm).
Chianti Classico Wine Expo, September 8 – 11, open 5 – 10 pm (Thursday), 11 am – 10 pm (Friday), 11 am – 8 pm (Saturday), 11 am – 9 pm (Sunday). Admission: € 10.
