Chianti Rufina and Pomino Wine Route – Tuscany: high-altitude vineyards, bottled elegance and hills suspended between Florence and the Apennines. To the east of Florence winds the Chianti Rufina and Pomino Wine Route, an itinerary that crosses orderly hilly landscapes, where the green of the vineyards alternates with the woods of the Apennines. In the municipalities of Rufina, Pontassieve, Pelago, Londa and Dicomano, the winemaking tradition meets the elegance of mountain wines and the most authentic Tuscan hospitality. 🍇 A microclimate that makes the difference: The higher altitudes compared to Chianti Classico give the wines of this area a distinctive freshness, delicate aromas and great aging capacity. Chianti Rufina DOCG expresses a more subtle and vertical Sangiovese, while Pomino DOC surprises with mineral whites and fine reds born among woods and Apennine breezes. 👉 Tip: Choose a guided tasting at a family-run winery – you'll discover fine labels and stories that speak of generations. 🏰 Castles, villas and historic vineyards: In this part of Tuscany, wine is also linked to art and architecture. Historic estates such as Castello di Pomino and Castello di Nipozzano tell the story of the long noble tradition linked to the vine. Renaissance villas and ancient parish churches dot the landscape, often open to visitors by appointment. 👉 Tip: Plan a visit to the Villa di Poggio Reale in Rufina: it houses the Museum of Vine and Wine, a reference point for the entire Route. 🚶 Paths between nature and vineyards: The Strada is ideal for those who love slow rhythms: you can explore it by bike, on foot or by car, following scenic roads that cross cool valleys and cultivated ridges. The paths lead through olive groves, streams and woods, offering perfect views in every season. 👉 Tip: Start from Pontassieve and follow the Sieve valley: you will find farms, wine bars and small villages suspended in time. 🍷 Flavors that tell the story of the territory: In addition to wine, the area offers authentic and rustic cuisine: crostini, local cured meats, aged pecorino cheeses, peasant soups and roasts go perfectly with the reds of Rufina. Pomino's whites and rosés enhance dishes based on vegetables, freshwater fish and fresh cheeses. 👉 Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to taste a Vin Santo produced in small barrels in historic cellars: balanced sweetness and very long persistence. 🎉 Holidays and appointments to mark: Between September and October, many wineries open their doors for the harvest. The Artisan Bacchus, the traditional festival of Rufina, brings wines, handicrafts and historical parades to the square. During the year, there is never a shortage of tastings and food and wine weekends. 👉 Tip: Take part in an evening event in the vineyards: many wineries offer sunset dinners with live music and matching wines. In every glass of Rufina and Pomino the harmony between nature, altitude and culture is reflected: a different Tuscany, to be discovered slowly and tastefully.