La Cantinetta di Rignana

Frommer's Review

From Greve, follow the signs to Montefioralle, then toward Badia a Passignano until the signposted turnoff. A medieval ramble of stone houses at the end of a long dirt road hides La Cantinetta, one of the Chianti's most genuine countryside trattorie. You can have lunch on the glassed-in patio with a sweeping view of the vineyard, but I prefer ducking under the hanging bunches of sausages and pendulous prosciutto ham hocks to eat inside. Here a congregation of reproduction Madonna and Child icons on one wall stare down the small armada of hammered copper pots and lanterns across the way. The staff is given to warbling snatches of folk songs and opera as they prepare handmade pasta (ravioli, gnocchi, or tagliolini) with your pick of rich sauces -- the thick, pasty noci nut sauce is excellent. Grilled meats top the main courses (coniglio, rabbit, is charred to perfection), or try the delicious involtini di manzo (beef slices rolled up with vegetables). The white-chocolate mousse is legendary. If the beautifully isolated setting appeals to you, the attached farm also offers seven basic country-style rooms from April to early November for 95€ ($125) for a double, including breakfast (minimum 3 nights; book at tel. 055-852-065; www.rignana.it).

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

Back to Top