Glass and Open Cellars at Colle Val d’Elsa

Saturday March 4: GLASS AND OPEN CELLARS—DEDICATED TO CHILDREN AND WINE LOVERS. Colle Val d’Elsa.  3 – 9 pm.  Admission €7

Set in one of Italy’s largest wine producing areas, the Consortium of Crystal Manufacturers and the Tuscan Wine Tourism Movement sponsor an event that marries the two products in an afternoon of discovery and creativity. With roots in the 14th century, Colle Val d’Elsa today produces 95% of Italian crystal and 15% of the world’s production.

“Customize,” the theme of this year’s event particularly invites children to watch and participate in the glass making process. Beginning with the melting of the mixture of sand, ash and limestone over heat up to 1500° C to the skilled blowing of the melted materials in order to shape into objects, the public can learn about the production of glass objects. While their parents sample the local wines, young artists will be able to create an object with their name.

Twenty wine producers offer their vintages for tasting and visitors can create a special memory by painting a unique label or perhaps a crystal Easter egg while at the event.

The city of Colle Val d’Elsa welcomes visitors to come and enjoy Tuscan wines enhanced by the elegant beauty of locally created crystal.  (rita kungel)