Wine Talk – Poggio ai Laghi

Christmas Italian Bruschette by Chef Belmonte

poggioailaghi — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 16:38:48 +0000

Christmas Italian Bruschette by Chef Belmonte

Wow your friends and family with three gourmet appetizers, expertly crafted by our renowned Chef Alfonso Belmonte.

Indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience that will leave everyone talking!

Buon appetite!

Bruschetta Burrata, Peach and Mint

Ingredients for 4:

8 slices of Tuscan bread
2 burrata cheeses
3 ripe peaches
1 knob of butter
Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Lightly toast the bread in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, cut the peaches into cubes and toss them with butter.
Place the burrata on the toasted bread and bake for one minute.
Serve and season with peach cubes, chopped mint, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Delight your guests with this elegant and flavorful appetizer that perfectly blends the creamy richness of burrata with the sweet and tangy notes of peaches. Enjoy!

Bruschetta Pecorino Fresh Acacia Honey Pear

Ingredients for 4:

8 slices of Tuscan bread
16 slices of fresh pecorino cheese
Honey
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Lightly toast the bread in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle the toasted bread with slices of fresh pecorino cheese.
Return to the oven until the cheese has melted.
Serve with thin slices of pear, and season with a drizzle of olive oil and acacia honey as a garnish.

Delight your guests with this elegant appetizer, where the creamy, slightly tangy pecorino pairs perfectly with the sweetness of pear and honey. Bon appétit!

Bruschetta with Mozzarella, Tuscan Raw Ham, and Arugula

Ingredients for 4:

8 slices of Tuscan bread
8 slices of raw ham
2 buffalo mozzarella
150 grams fresh arugula (rocket)
Salt and pepper to taste
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) to taste

Instructions:

Lightly toast the bread in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5 minutes.
Lay the mozzarella slices on the toasted bread and return to the oven until the cheese begins to melt.
Serve topped with a slice of raw ham and a handful of fresh arugula.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Treat your guests to this delightful appetizer that combines creamy mozzarella, savory ham, and peppery arugula, all on a perfectly toasted slice of Tuscan bread.

Buon appetito!

B o o k y o u r e x p e r i e n c e d i r e c t l y w i t h u s !

And profit of the direct booking savings

Bledar
+39 351 010 1736
booking@poggioailaghi.com

Chef Alfonso Belmonte’s Signature Tasting Menu & Wine Tasting Experience

poggioailaghi — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 16:22:50 +0000

Chef Alfonso Belmonte’s Signature Tasting Menu & Wine Tasting Experience

EXPERIENCE THE PINNACLE OF TUSCAN CUISINE

Indulge in the culinary masterpieces crafted by our new chef, Alfonso Belmonte.

Drawing from his rich experience in Italy’s finest restaurants across Capri, Ischia, Paestum, and Chianti, Alfonso brings an authentic taste of Tuscany to your table.

Savor the true flavors of the region with our premium products, curated and presented by a Maestro of Italian gastronomy.

Buon appetito!

Chef Alfonso Belmonte’s Signature Tasting Menu

Marinated Beef Carpaccio with Pantelleria Capers and Parmigiano Sauce

Creamy Vialone Nano Risotto with Saffron and Mint Zucchini Foam

Beef Filet Mignon with Chianti Reduction and Soft Potato Purée

Warm Apple Tart with “Rugginosa della Valdichiana” Apples, Ginger, Toasted Almonds, Vin Santo Sauce, and Vanilla Ice Cream

Wine Tasting Experience

Arella Spumante Extra Dry

Oletta Chianti Riserva DOCG

Lucilla Chianti Classico DOCG

Aranda Supertuscan IGT Toscana Rosso

Donna Ava Supertuscan IGT Toscana Rosso

Ildebrando Vin Santo del Chianti DOC

With Oils

Extra Virgin Organic Olive Oil

Chili Pepper Extra Virgin Olive Oil

White Truffle Extra Virgin Olive Oil

& Balsamic Vinegars

Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Pgi Aged Gold

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Dop Extra Refined

Lacrime Viola Vinegar with Valdelsa Onions

Price 50€

Available booking options:

11:30 – 12:00 – 12:30 – 13:00 – 13:30 – 14:00 – 14:30 – 15:00 – 15:30

B o o k y o u r e x p e r i e n c e d i r e c t l y w i t h u s !

And profit of the direct booking savings

Bledar
+39 351 010 1736
booking@poggioailaghi.com

From Monteriggioni’s Grannies Recipe Book: Chickpea and Chestnut soup

poggioailaghi — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 10:54:11 +0000

CHICKPEA AND CHESTNUT SOUP

This soup is deliciously sweet, satisfying and rich without being heavy. And because it nourishes our spleen energy, well, it’s pretty much the perfect starter course.

Makes 3-4 servings

INGREDIENT LIST:

½ cup dried chickpeas, soaked for 1 hour with 2 teaspoons baking soda)
10-12 fresh chestnuts, boiled, peeled, coarsely chopped
2 fresh garlic cloves, peeled, smashed, minced
2 fresh rosemary sprigs
4-6 fresh sage leaves
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Sea salt
Pinch of chili flakes
3-4 sprigs fresh flat leaf parsley, coarsely chopped for garnish

STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Drain soaked chickpeas and rinse them very well to remove the baking soda. Transfer them to a pot with 1 ½ cups spring or filtered water. Add one sprig of rosemary, bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low and cook until tender, about an hour. Drain the chickpeas and reserve the cooking water.

While the chickpeas cook, bring another pot of water with the chestnuts to the boil. Cook over medium heat for about 30 minutes. Drain well and allow the chestnuts to cool just enough to be able to handle them. (If they cool too much, they will be very challenging to peel).

Chop the chestnuts finely. Set aside.

Place half of the chickpeas and some of the cooking water with a blender and puree until smooth.

In a soup pot, pot, place 2 tablespoons of oil, garlic, sage, the remaining rosemary (chopped) and chili flakes. Stir in the chickpeas, (whole and pureed), the chestnuts, and a light seasoning of salt. Add remaining cooking liquid from the chickpeas as needed to create the texture of soup you desire. Cover and cook over low heat for about 25 minutes more.

Serve the soup with a drizzle of olive oil, topped with fresh chopped parsley.

Autumn in Chianti, between grape and olive harvests

poggioailaghi — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 10:45:39 +0000

Woods and vineyards are dressed in the warm colors of ochre and red

Perfect season to visit and live the magic of Chianti

Woods and vineyards are dressed in the warm colors of ochre and red, the mild temperatures allow you to enjoy long hikes, the villages regain peace and harmony, becoming ideal places for peaceful walks, perhaps stopping to sip a good glass of Chianti Classico.

“But above all, this is the season of the ancient art of the grape harvest, which is followed a few weeks later by the olive one.”

Autumn in Chianti is also about extra virgin olive oil

The olive harvest takes place between October and November, following a centuries-old tradition. To discover the history of the Chianti extra virgin olive oil, an ancient and valuable product, you can take part in the “Camminata tra gli olivi” (Olive trees walk): a series of initiatives and walks, which are held in all the municipalities of Chianti, during the olive harvesting and pressing.

Food and wine are also combined with sport activities

Among the most important events of the season is the Eco Marathon, in the municipality of Castelnuovo Berardenga, a series of routes, competitive and non-competitive, designed to enhance the beauty of the landscape and traditions of Chianti.

Autumn is also one of the best periods to enjoy the colors of the Chianti nature, with long hikes through woods and hills.

In fact, there are many paths in every municipality of the area that allow you to discover ancient parish churches and monasteries, medieval villages and Etruscan necropolis.

History of Donna Ava

poggioailaghi — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 10:20:29 +0000

Poggio ai Laghi has chosen to connect its image to local history

Wine and History: Poggio ai Laghi Labels are inspired by the history of Donna Ava

Poggio ai Laghi has chosen to connect its image to local history, sharing the legend through its
labels. Ava, a Lombard woman, lived around the year 1000. She arrived in Monteriggioni to marry
Ildebrando, the heir of Isalfredo dei Lambardi, Lord of multiple regions, including Simignano,
Fulignano, Rencine, Scorgiano, Bigozzi, Castelsinibaldo, Monte Agutolo, Gallena and Fonte Rutoli,
Count of Montemaggio and Pian del lago.

Ava’s Marriage

Isalfredo intended Avas marriage to his son to unite the Lombard and Frankish dynasties, ensuring the Countys peace and prosperity. Ava lived peacefully in her castle at Staggia and had two sons, Tegrimo (Teuzzo) and Beritzo. However, the Chianti mountains harbored many dangers, and Ildebrando frequently had to defend his supremacy by force.

The Marquisate of Tuscany in the year 1000

The Marquisate of Tuscany felt like a land far removed from the Emperor, and not a day passed
without Ildebrando having to reassert his supremacy by force and sword. Thus, the young Ava,
now prematurely widowed, was faced with a choice: remarry and align with a neighboring county
that offered support and protection, or bear the full weight of the county until Tegrimo could
succeed Ildebrando. After a period of mourning and silence, Ava decided to care for the Shire and
its people and announced her intentions. The inhabitants of the Shire rallied to help Ava, tithes
poured in, and the Countess reciprocated by having water mills built near the castles along the
rivers, sparking the growth of small villages around them.

The Building of seven Churches

The community grew and prospered, and Ava continued to build and reclaim. With everyones
help, she had seven new churches built in Marmoraia, Molli, Pernina, Pievescola, Simignano,
Pietralata, and Pieve a Castello, and supported the foundation of a Benedictine monastery along
the Via Francigena, in the Castle of Borgonovo, renamed Badia a Isola. Ava remained at the head
of the county as long as she had the strength. Then, as was common at the time, she gave Beritzo
some lands on the edge of the county towards San Gimignano and left the responsibility for
Staggia and Strove to her eldest son, Tegrimo.

The Monastery of Badia a Isola

After stepping down, the Countess decided to take the vows and veil of the Benedictine order,
living a retired life in her Castle of Staggia. The fact that her tomb has never been found suggests
that Donna Ava was buried under the ancient church of the monastery of Badia a Isola, where the
church dedicated to Saints Salvatore and Cirino was later built.
Research by the University of Siena is ongoing.

Harvest 2024

poggioailaghi — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 15:16:34 +0000

As the golden hues of autumn sweep across the vineyards of Poggio ai Laghi, the excitement for the annual grape harvest reaches its peak. This year, the harvest of 2024 is not just about gathering the fruits of our labor but also about fostering a stronger sense of community and teamwork within our company.

A Tradition of Togetherness

At Poggio ai Laghi, we believe that the essence of our wines is deeply intertwined with the spirit of our team. The harvest season, a time of hard work and celebration, provides the perfect backdrop for our team-building initiatives. This year, we have organized a series of activities designed to strengthen bonds, enhance collaboration, and create lasting memories.

Harvesting with Heart

The team-building activities kicked off with a hands-on harvesting experience. Employees from all departments came together in the vineyards, working side by side to pick the grapes: we all harvested some rows of our sangiovese together.

This immersive experience not only allowed everyone to appreciate the meticulous effort that goes into each bottle of wine but also fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose.

After harvesting we all had breakfast together in the courtyard in front of the winery.

Building a Stronger Future

The 2024 harvest at Poggio ai Laghi has been a testament to the power of teamwork and the importance of community. By working together, we have not only ensured a successful harvest but also strengthened the bonds that make our company a great place to work. As we look forward to the future, we are reminded that it is the collective effort and shared passion of our team that will continue to drive our success.

We invite you to join us in celebrating this special time of year and to raise a glass to the incredible team at Poggio ai Laghi. Cheers to a bountiful harvest and an even brighter future!

The Black Rooster legend

poggioailaghi — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 14:00:31 +0000

You can easily distinguish a Chianti Classico from a Chianti by the unmistakable pink label with a black rooster on the neck of the bottle.

You’re probably asking yourself why the black rooster?

The Black Rooster legend

The Gallo Nero (Black Rooster) was the historic symbol of the League of Chianti and has become the symbol of the wines of Chianti Classico. The Black Rooster symbol is linked to a medieval legend that takes place during the time of open hostilities between Firenze and Siena for control of the Chianti territory.

Legend says

to stop the ongoing battle for Chianti territories between Florence and Siena, the two towns decided to solve the matter once and for all with a challenge.

The challenge required that two knights from Siena and Florence galloped from their individual cities at sunrise, when the first rooster crowed. The point where the two knights met, would become the official border. It was clear that to win this challenge and obtain more territory, both towns had to choose, not their knights and horses wisely, but their roosters.

Siena opted for a white rooster. They treated it like a king, feeding it at dawn every day, so that on the morning of the race it would crow at the sight of light, eager for food.

Florence instead chose a black rooster. They locked the rooster in a small, dark chicken-coop and did not feed it for days.

On the day of the race, the black rooster was set free. Nervous, hungry and finally free, he crowed much earlier than sunrise, allowing the Florentine knight to depart well in advance and ride earlier and further.

Thanks to his considerable head start

the Florentine knight met his opponent in Fonterutoli, only 12 km from Siena.

This allowed Firenze to control nearly the entirety of the Chianti territory.

Poggio ai Laghi between the Francigena and the Chiantigiana

poggioailaghi — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 14:43:34 +0000

Poggio ai Laghi Winery is nestled between two significant routes in Tuscany: the Via Francigena and the Strada del Chianti (Route 222).

The Via Francigena

The Via Francigena is an ancient pilgrimage route that connects Canterbury in England through France and Switzerland, to Rome. It winds through picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and historic towns. Pilgrims and travelers have walked this path for centuries, seeking spiritual enlightenment and cultural experiences.

Poggio ai Laghi’s proximity to the Via Francigena makes it an ideal stopover for those journeying along this historic trail.

The Strada del Chianti (Route 222)

The Strada del Chianti or Chiantigiana (also known as Route 222) is a scenic road that meanders through the heart of the Chianti wine region. It connects Florence to Siena, passing through vine-clad hills, cypress-lined lanes, and medieval villages from Greve in Chianti, Panzano, Castellina, (Radda, Gaiole) and finally Siena for a total length of 69 kilometres.

From Castellina you can go down to the Val d’Elsa and back to San Gimignano and Monteriggioni or, alternatively, in a short time you’ll reach Siena through Fonterutoli.

Monteriggioni is one of the oldest, most memorable and recognizable villages in all of Italy, it seems that it has been inhabited since the eighth century BC. the town is even mentioned by the Supreme Poet Dante Alighieri in the Divine Comedy: Inferno, Canto XXXI.

Monteriggioni and its Medieval Castle

Monteriggioni Castle was founded in the 1220s by the Republic of Siena with the aim of creating a defensive outpost against Florence. Monteriggioni preserves most of the 13th century structures, such as the city walls that embrace the top of the hill for a length of about 570 meters. It’s also equipped with 14 imposing towers that allow you to enjoy the spectacular panorama of Siena.

In summary, Poggio ai Laghi’s unique position between the Via Francigena and the Strada del Chianti invites travelers to discover the rich history, natural beauty, and wine and food delights of this enchanting region

Wine and Art at Poggio ai Laghi

poggioailaghi — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 11:28:27 +0000

The Poggio ai Laghi winery is indeed located along the Francigena route, precisely near Monteriggioni.
On February 4th, 1001, Donna Ava, the widow of Ildebrando, Lord of Staggia, founded the Benedictine monastery of Abbadia Isola together with her sons Tegrimo and Berizo.

History and Legend of Donna Ava and her Handmaids

On February 4th, 1001, Donna Ava, the widow of Ildebrando, Lord of Staggia, founded the Benedictine monastery of Abbadia Isola together with her sons Tegrimo and Berizo.

Legend has it that since the Middle Ages, Donna Ava cared for her people through her seven handmaids, each possessing a special gift.

Legend tells of each Handmaid possessing a special Gift

Firmina had the gift of Love, Aranda Happiness, Lucilla Freedom, Oletta Time, Arella Well-Being, Arania Harmony, and Nina Communion.

The wines of Poggio ai Laghi are dedicated to Donna Ava and her handmaids.

This story and legend are being brought to light by the company through studies and research in collaboration with the Municipality of Monteriggioni and the Department of Medieval History of the University of Siena.

Wine and Art: Poggio ai Laghi Labels are designed by a Local Artist

Poggio ai Laghi has chosen to collaborate with artists to design the label for our wines, creating unique labels that can become collectible pieces. The labels for the wines dedicated to Donna Ava and her seven handmaids (Lucilla, Oletta, Nina, Arania, Aranda, Arella, and Firmina) are drawn by the talented local artist Maria Chiara Viviani.

She envisioned the faces of these eight women, which she then incorporated into a mural that served as inspiration for the labels.

The faces of these eight women, which she then incorporated into a mural that served as inspiration for the labels.

Customer Loyalty: the Wine Club at Poggio ai Laghi

poggioailaghi — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 13:51:49 +0000

In the world of wine, customer loyalty and retention are paramount. At Poggio ai Laghi, we understand this and have created a unique Wine Club to foster a strong relationship with our customers. Our Wine Club is not just about selling wine; it’s about creating an engaging and rewarding experience that keeps our customers coming back.

The Poggio ai Laghi Wine Club

Our Wine Club is structured into four levels of membership: Winelover, Citizen of Chianti, Ambassador of Chianti and King/Queen of Chianti. Each level offers a unique set of benefits and rewards, encouraging our customers to engage more with our brand and products.

Winelover

By signing up free of charge to the Poggio ai Laghi Wine Club, you automatically become a Winelover member. This level is our way of welcoming you into the Poggio ai Laghi family. As a Winelover, you will receive regular updates about our wines, vineyard news, upcoming events and special offers.

Citizen of Chianti

As you continue your journey with us, you can ascend to the Citizen of Chianti level by collecting 600 grapes. This level offers additional benefits, such as the official certificate, a dedicated wine expert, the first level our Wine Academy and a dedicated event. It’s our way of saying thank you for your continued support.

Ambassador

With 4000 grapes, you become an Ambassador of Chianti. This prestigious level offers even more exclusive benefits, including access to the second level of our Wine Academy and a personal wine expert always at your service. As an Ambassador, you are not just a customer; you are a representative of the Poggio ai Laghi brand.

King/Queen

The pinnacle of our Wine Club is the King/Queen level, which requires 10,000 grapes. This level offers the most exclusive benefits, including a master with our Wine Academy, a private event at your home, and the annual invitation to the gathering with the crowning ceremony and award plate. As a King/Queen, you are part of the Poggio ai Laghi royalty.

The Role of the Wine Club in Customer Loyalty

Our Wine Club plays a crucial role in fostering customer loyalty and retention. By offering a tiered membership structure, we encourage our customers to engage more with our brand. Each level of membership offers unique benefits and rewards, providing an incentive for customers to continue their journey with us.

Moreover, our Wine Club creates a sense of community among our customers. It allows them to feel connected to our brand and to each other, fostering a sense of loyalty and belonging.

In conclusion, the Poggio ai Laghi Wine Club is more than just a club; it’s a journey of discovery, engagement, and reward. It’s a key tool in our strategy to foster customer loyalty, ensuring that our customers remain part of the Poggio ai Laghi family for years to come.