chianti handmade

a journey through workshops, looms and authentic flavours

If you think Chianti is just wine, prepare to reconsider. There is a slower itinerary — one made of clay dust, silk threads and the scent of finocchiona — that will lead you to discover the artisan soul of this land. The starting point for this remarkable day is right here: leave the tranquillity of Borgo Argenina behind you and get ready to meet the people who create extraordinary things with their hands. Comfortable shoes, an open mind, and off we go.

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first stop

Lecchi in Chianti, between art and leather

Begin in the small village of Lecchi, where two stops are non-negotiable.
Studio Radianza — step into the world of Lies. Her ceramics are pieces of contemporary art: textural, singular, charged with the energy of this land. These are not objects; they are sculptures.
La Bottega del Calzolaio — a small workshop that smells of fine leather. A shoemaker of another era: bespoke shoes and belts in leather, made to last a lifetime. But look carefully around the shelves — he also creates truly distinctive handmade jewellery you won’t find anywhere else.

A word between us: artists tend to follow the rhythm of creation rather than the clock. Always worth a phone call before heading over — or just ask me to make it.

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a gem in Dudda

Stefanie Duex's loom

Continue towards Dudda, where you simply must meet Stefanie. She practises the rare art of hand-weaving. Step into her atelier and you’ll catch the ancient rhythm of wooden looms — she creates scarves and fabrics in silk and linen that feel like a caress.

A word between us: Stefanie works in a deeply intimate space and welcomes visitors by appointment only. If you’d like to go, let me know and we’ll call her — she loves talking about how her weaves come to life.

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a small magic

the view from Volpaia

On your way back towards Radda, make a very brief detour to the village of Volpaia. Before entering the village, stop for a moment at the side of the road: you’ll see the vineyards cascade down into the valley in a perfect pattern. This is my favourite viewpoint — where the light of Tuscany seems to shine more brightly than anywhere else.

The perfect moment for a photograph!

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softness in Radda

Chianti Cashmere

On your way up to Radda, stop at Chianti Cashmere. This is not a simple shop but a beautiful farm where luxury meets nature. You’ll discover how the fine undercoat of their goats becomes the softest cashmere you have ever touched.

A word between us: if you love animals, book a Goat Experience — in spring you might even meet the kids. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am–6pm.

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Elegance and tratidion

Ceramiche Rampini

Before heading back, stop at Ceramiche Rampini. This is where you enter the world of great craftsmanship: their decorations are extraordinarily rich, almost Renaissance in spirit. The right place if you’re looking for that one significant piece to remind you of these days forever.

A word between us: the showroom is open all day from 9am to 6pm — perfect for browsing at leisure among hundreds of patterns. If you have a personalised set in mind, arrange a meeting with the master craftsmen to choose your decorations together, without any rush.

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the indulgent stop

Casa Porciatti, obviously!

You cannot say you’ve been to Radda without stopping at Porciatti. This is my temple of taste. You absolutely must try their Finocchiona or the legendary Lardo di Radda.

A word between us: the historic shop closes for lunch (1pm–3:30pm) and is shut on Sundays — but if you fancy a quick board and a good glass of wine, their Enoteca nearby is always ready to look after you.

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I hope you enjoy this itinerary. You’ll see — you’ll return to Borgo Argenina not just with a few unique souvenirs, but with the feeling of having met the people who make the real Chianti.

I’ll be waiting with a glass of wine when you get back.

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