For the last two centuries Badia a Coltibuono, originally a medieval Benedictine abbey, has been the gracious villa and prestigious wine estate of the Stucchi-Prinetti family. For the last fifteen years it was the setting for Lorenza de’ Medici’s weeklong Villa Table cooking classes.
Intensive 3-day programs or leisurely 5-day courses are offered. Guests will learn the culinary art of Tuscan cuisine while residing in the beautifully renovated bedrooms of the villa, which were once the monk's cells. Francesco Torre, chef of the Badia a Coltibuono Tuscan wine estate, is the instructor. He continues the culinary tradition established by Lorenza de'Medici during the years she taught cooking classes in her villa kitchen, also the setting for this course. Chef Torre adds his own personal approach, developed after professional experience in some of Italy's best restaurants.
The courses are hands-on and are suitable for beginners as well as experienced home cooks. They concentrate on local Tuscan cuisine, using the freshest seasonal produce. Participants will learn to prepare typical menus, from pasta to roasts, to traditional Tuscan breads and sweets. They will also experience the hospitality which has been part of our thousand year history.
Included is an in-depth view of wine production, with visits to Coltibuono's famed vineyards and state-of-the-art vinification facility. Guided wine and extra virgin olive oil tastings complete the experience.
Participants attending during the week of the Palio horse race in Siena have the opportunity to watch the race from our exclusive seats at the starting/finish line.
Residential 3- or 5-day vacation courses (usually Mon-Sat) that include participation cooking classes, wine & olive oil tastings, gastronomic & cultural visits. Day classes also offered.
Number of Programs/Year
8
Group Size or S:T Ratio
16 max
Program Focus
Italian, Vacation, Wine
Faculty
Chef Francesco Torre & Guide John Meis
Costs
Land cost is $1,200 double, $1,500 single for 3 day program; $3,300 double, $3,600 single, for 5 day program; includes lodging at Badia a Coltibuono; $500 supplement for Palio week.
