Tuscany has forever impacted the art world. Native sons da Vinci and Michelangelo have spawned admirers, students, and imitators throughout the centuries. The Italian Renaissance, which was birthed in Florence, signaled the opening phase of the Renaissance as a whole, which was a period of great cultural, artistic, and social achievement for Europe. Those in search of Tuscan art abroad should go to premier museums such as MOMA in New York or the Art Institute of Chicago.
Tuscan Cooking:
Most recently, Georgio Armani opened his boutique hotel in the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalida, in Dubai. Amongst the offerings in the 160-floor building is Ristorante, Armani’s take on traditional Tuscan cuisine. Quality Tuscany cooking is also available stateside at restaurants such as Nino’s or Terraza Toscana, both in New York City. While Armani is sure to rise to the occasion, generally the trip to Tuscany must be made to experience true authentic Italian cooking. The master chefs and their secret recipes, the fresh-from-market vegetables, the home-made cheeses, and the subtle undertones of Tuscan olive oil must all be experienced first hand in Tuscany. For first time travelers to Tuscany let me caution you that Olive Garden will never be the same again after enjoying the fruits of Tuscan cooking.
Tuscan Wine and olive oil:
Tuscany gives is some of the best and most revered red wines in the world. From classic blends to Super Tuscans, which don’t adhere to traditional rules, Tuscany dominates the wine landscape. The growth of ecommerce and the explosion of the upscale wine industry as a hobby have made Tuscan wines available throughout the world. However, one experience that must be taken in is enjoying a tall glass of Tuscan wine in the very vineyard in which it was grown.
Tuscany has made everlasting artistic, social, and culinary contributions to the world, many of which even predate the Renaissance. Much of what Tuscany has to offer is available elsewhere, but the tastes, smells, scenery, and lively culture can never be duplicated. Wine connoisseurs, art buffs, and foodies the world over should all take a trip to Tuscany. When traveling it is vital to enlist a guide with the access and resources needed to show the sweet secrets of Tuscany. I suggest contacting Tuscan Way, the leader in food and wine cooking tours of Tuscany, for more details.
