La Cantinetta Del Chianti

We had a delightful glass of wine sitting outside at 5pm in the afternoon. Wine, weather and the setting was fantastic.

In the sleepy Tuscan village of Gaiole in Chainti is this wine shop and restaurant. The tables are all outside because there's no room inside but of course, this is Tuscany so that doesn't matter. Ricardo and his beautiful partner look after their customers with a very personal touch. Each meal is prepared freshly so don't be in a rush and is worth waiting for. The menu is short and simple but all delicious. Add perfect wine selections and you have the perfect lunch or light super. Inside there are other delights. Balsamic and olive oil, has of truffles, grappa not for the faint hearted and one of the best selections of fine wines in the area.

Love stopping in for a glass of prosecco or simply to pick up some perfectly-fresh cheese and meats. Riccardo will make you feel right at home!

Riccardo (the proprietor rocks!! This is a fairly small store close to the free public parking in Gaiole. Riccardo stocks a few curiosities (some rare bourbons! , but it's really about the Chianti Classico and Grappa. Riccardo knows the Chianti region, and he can easily rattle off recommendations based on your preference. Some of the local wineries sell off all their best bottles, so a well stocked store can be a godsend. [For example, my wife and I really liked Rocca di Montegrossi, but they had sold out of their Gran Selezione! Fortunately Riccardo had it : If visiting Gaiole, stop in!

We visited La Cantinetta during our trip to Gaiole in Chianti, had some beautiful wine on the terrace and also bought some wine and delicacy from the host of the enoteca, Riccardo, and enjoyed his knowledge in Italian wines and his Italian charm. We will definately be back some day. Highly recommended!