The Akaroa Cooking School

What a fabulous way to wrap up our final wine tasting at La Braccesca for 2026! As always, the wines were exceptional, and we happily tasted our way through their beautiful selection of reds.

Afterwards it was off to Montepulciano, where I’m fairly certain the shops were working overtime keeping the ladies entertained! We all headed home with very happy hearts, full bellies, perhaps just a little too much wine, and plenty of bags filled with special treats for friends and family.

After a well-earned afternoon rest, we gathered once again around Jean’s beautifully set table for another memorable evening of incredible food, some very special wine (thank you Warren) and even better company.

Now it’s time to recharge because tomorrow is market day… and we’re all super excited!

Another day, another fabulous Tuscan adventure! 🥂

Today was filled with plenty of laughs as the crew cooked up a storm under the wonderful guidance of Marta, followed by a truly sumptuous lunch in what has to be one of the most breathtaking spots on earth, overlooking the stunning Val d’Orcia.

From there, it was off to Pienza for a little speed shopping and sightseeing before Franco treated us to a couple of special detours – a visit to the little church featured in the final scene of Gladiator, along with a stop to admire some glorious sunflower fields in full bloom. 🌻

Back at the villa, it was time for G&Ts in the lounge before another beautiful dinner under the stars, sharing great food, plenty of laughs and making memories we’ll be talking about for years to come!!

It’s hard to believe we’re into our final week of tours already, which means it’s time to say “arrivederci” (until next year!) to all of our wonderful friends and suppliers we’ve been visiting since 2018.

Our final truffle hunt certainly didn’t disappoint. It was an absolute cracker, with truffles galore! Clever little Pecca was on top form, sniffing out those nuggets of truffley deliciousness within minutes of arriving in the forest. She never fails to impress!

On the way back to the villa, we took the scenic route via beautiful Lago di Trasimeno before heading home for a well-earned glass of Prosecco and plenty of laughs in the lounge. Liz very kindly took charge of decorating the dinner table, and it looked absolutely gorgeous. We then enjoyed another fabulous meal under the loggia, swapping funny stories, sharing a limoncello (or two!), and making the most of another magical Tuscan evening.

Bedtime was eventually called so we’d all be bright-eyed and ready for tomorrow’s cooking class in Pienza. I have a feeling it’s going to be another fantastic day!