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Our food & wine immersion trips focus on the cultural, historical and geographical connection of food & wine in each region we visit.

EDUCATION THROUGH TRAVEL

The best way to truly learn is to immerse yourself in a place—to experience its landscapes, walk its soils, and connect deeply with its community, stepping beyond the pages of books and into the world you've envisioned for years.

Tuscany June 2025

This itinerary provides an in-depth experience of Tuscany's rich gastronomic and wine culture. The price covers accommodations, visits to all producers, daily meals, daily transportation during the week, and all educational classes and cook-alongs. Please note, flights, travel arrangements to Italy, and transportation to and from Villa Bernardi are not included.

  • Four producer-led winery visits to renowned cellars, featuring tastings and tours in the Chianti Classico and San Gimignano areas.

  • Two food producer visits, including the region’s most important sheep’s milk cheese and multiple olive oil tasting from various olive varietals.

  • Welcome reception aperitivo and dinner.

  • Daily breakfasts with fresh baked goods, local specialties, fruits.

  • Five traditional multi-course lunches with wine pairing ((Note: Please beware much of Italian cuisine contains dairy and gluten, thus food allergies and aversions may be difficult to accommodate outside of the villa.)

  • One cooking class and gastronomic lesson, leading into a convivial lunch and paired with wines.

  • Apericena at the local’s favorite enoteca in Panzano.

  • A festive farewell cookout on the terrace.

  • Taste a total of over 50 wines from various Tuscan regions, comparing styles, colors, subregions, and grapes, with a particular focus on Sangiovese, Trebbiano, Malvasia, and Vernaccia.

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Education

This transformative journey through Tuscany combines education, culture, and unforgettable experiences. This trip offers unparalleled access to the region’s rich food and wine traditions and amazing producers, designed to deepen your understanding and appreciation of Italian gastronomy and culture. Our itinerary includes:

  • One locally-led cooking class, focusing on the region’s most iconic dishes, leading into convivial dining.

  • The Art and History of the Aperitivo masterclass followed by apericena.

  • Tuscan wine masterclass with Italian Wine Ambassador Scott Thomas.

  • In-depth food and wine conversations directly with producers eager to share their inspiring stories.

  • Paula and Scott’s combined credentials and real-world experience ensure every moment of your journey is enriching, with open discussions about food, wine, and culture available throughout the trip—and their guidance accessible to you around the clock.

Testimonials - Tuscany 2024

  • The Villa was absolutely a treat and luxurious. From the authentically decorated and designed accommodations to the convivial meeting and gathering spaces. Comfortable, inviting and festive! Quality gym, outdoor gathering spaces, and pool were a bonus. Being able to walk the vineyards, have a cafe, a quick refreshing dip in the pool, or lively conversation on the patio or dining areas- all fantastico!

  • I really enjoyed the Wine Master Class. Scott’s knowledge of wine and the region is wonderful and helpful prior to our wine producer visits.

    Paula and Scott- excellent teachers because you exude passion and expertise. You know what you are talking about!

  • The restaurants were wonderful, as well as our meals at the Villa! The ones that stood out to me the most were Cum Quibus for the beautiful surroundings, attentive service, and expertly prepared menu. Le Panzanelle was my favorite for a lovely and relaxing meal with many delicious items to choose from.

  • The producer visits were amazing and unique, offering an excellent view of the culture and diversity of the region. It is so hard to pick a favorite but I would have to say the opportunity to meet Elizabetta at Montenidoli was a lifetime memory for me. She is so impressive as a winemaker, a philanthropist, and a mentor. And her energy absolutely fills the room!

  • It was so much more than I could have expected! It was truly a life-changing experience. The design of the program cultivates the sharing of experiences and relationships in the beauty of Chianti. A dream!

  • Paula and Scott’ positive vibes are contagious. Their passion for food, wine and the region is exemplary and very much appreciated! Thank you for a memorable 1st trip to Italy and introducing me to such a beautiful area! I can’t wait until next time…❤️

WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

Paula and Scott Thomas spent more than two years living in Italy with time divided between Piedmont and Tuscany. This time allowed for a deep understanding of Italy’s many beautiful regions, all of which are rich with unique cultural identity. By traveling with us, you gain unique access to places that would otherwise be inaccessible. Over the years, we’ve forged strong relationships with producers, farmers, and business owners who share their stories of place better than anyone else.

Our immersive study trips are intimate and allow for around-the-clock learning. Scott is a certified Italian Wine Expert and Paula is a food anthropologist, and both earned master’s degrees in their respective fields while living and studying in Italy.