bags in the room, glass in hand

your survival kit for the Chianti

Welcome to Argenina! If you're reading this, it means you made it: you are finally in the heart of Chianti Classico. You're probably a little tired from the journey, hair ruffled by the hill breeze, with an overwhelming urge to drop the bags and get on with the real business — namely, a proper glass of wine. To spare you the "so, where do we go?" panic, we've put together four unmissable stops just around the corner, perfect for your first day.

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Castello di Brolio

to feel ever so slightly aristocratic

Just a few minutes from Argenina rises Castello di Brolio. This is where Baron Bettino Ricasoli essentially invented the formula for Chianti Classico — something of a nineteenth-century Elon Musk, but with considerably more style and no Twitter account.

Why go: for the spectacular gardens and a view that stretches all the way to Siena. If you don’t take at least one photo here, your Instagram profile may never forgive you.

One thing to know: in winter and early spring (through to mid-March) the castle and museum may have reduced hours or temporary closures. A quick call or a check of the official Ricasoli website is always a good idea, especially if you’re planning a guided cellar tour.

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Agribar

the champions' aperitivo

If hunger knocks but you’re not quite ready to commit to a ten-course dinner, Agribar is your safe harbour. Informal, authentic, and thoroughly welcoming.

What to do: a quick lunch or a sunset aperitivo. The ideal place to mix with the locals and discover that the pace of life down here is, shall we say, considerably more relaxed.

One thing to know: Agribar sits right at the foot of the castle — perfect for anyone who wants genuine atmosphere without the fuss. If you arrive in the late afternoon, it’s the right place for a glass of Chianti Classico before the light fades.

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Chianti Sculpture Park

Art among the trees

Need to walk off that extra sliver of pecorino? Head to the Sculpture Park. This is not your usual dusty museum: contemporary art appears between the trees in entirely unexpected ways.

The extra touch: an outdoor trail, perfect if you want to combine a restorative walk with a dash of culture — no whispering required.

One thing to know: the park is in Pievasciata. Bear in mind you’ll be walking through woodland, so leave the heels in the suitcase and enjoy the art in comfortable shoes.

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Vallepicciola

the "serious" tasting

If your goal is to get straight to the point, Vallepicciola is the answer. A modern, imposing and thoroughly scenic winery.

The experience: ask for a tasting paired with a board of local cured meats and cheeses. The ideal way to officially launch your gastronomic holiday. Fair warning: it’s addictive.

One thing to know: modernity meets tradition here. If you have your eye on their local produce board, bear in mind that the kitchen tends to close a little before the enoteca itself. A quick phone call will secure your place in paradise.

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