Official website of the destination San Gimignano

The San Gimignano countryside guards a chain of families and producers who cultivate saffron, this precious purple flower from which they make stigmas, because that is how it is marketed, not in powdered form but in precious filaments, with the D.O.P. label guaranteeing this ancient tradition. 

Its production traces its roots back as far as the 1200s and soon found trade throughout Europe and even in the East and Africa, making the fortunes of many merchants who, with the proceeds, commissioned the construction of city towers as high as wealth and power. A particularly valuable spice, it was used for dyeing textiles, as a bargaining chip and also to pay homage to important figures such as Emperor Frederick II. With an intense flavor tending toward bitterish, its cultivation today, as then, is based on traditional methods and enriches various recipes of the local cuisine.

In May 2017, the Consorzio dello Zafferano di San Gimignano DOP was established to promote and enhance one of the territory's most authentic products. This PDO product is still marketed in stems, and not in powder form, to avoid counterfeiting and guarantee quality.

D.O.C.G. trademark and the first wine on the peninsula to bear the D.O.C. label, this is the white wine produced in the San Gimignano municipal area. The combed hills that shroud the village in scenic wonder give this wine its prized organoleptic qualities, the result of the expert working of the land between innovation and tradition. Vernaccia di San Gimignano has been produced and traded since the Middle Ages. Derived from the vine of the same name, it is believed that it was known even before Roman times and that its name derives from the Latin vernaculum meaning "local" or, according to another hypothesis, that the grape variety came from Liguria and found assonance and etymological origin from the Cinque Terre village Vernazza. The historic walls of the Fortress of Montestaffoli house the Vernaccia Consortium where there is a museum and a beautiful terrace for tastings.

Set in the most picturesque Tuscan hills, San Gimignano is not only an architectural marvel with its medieval towers towering over the surrounding countryside, it also offers a culinary experience that embraces local traditions and the sustainability of the organic production and consumption model of the San Gimignano Biodistrict. Here is a gustatory journey through the food and wine treasures of this cultivated hillside, products of excellence born of the authentic relationship between man and his land, to truly savor this territory.

The fine white wine of the Towers: Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG: Vernaccia di San Gimignano is a wine treasure appreciated worldwide for its elegance and unique character. Produced in the surrounding hills, this white wine is made from Vernaccia grapes and is distinguished by its fresh, floral and slightly spicy taste. Enjoying a glass of Vernaccia in one of the local restaurants, perhaps accompanied by Tuscan pecorino cheeses, is a must for wine lovers.

The red nectar of the hills: San Gimignano Rosso DOP: San Gimignano Rosso, with its DOP designation, represents the red soul of the surrounding hills. Composed mainly of Sangiovese grapes, this red wine enchants palates with its aromatic complexity, offering notes of red fruits and spices. Perfect to accompany traditional Tuscan dishes, San Gimignano Rosso is an invitation to explore the richness of local cuisine.

The precious yellow gold: Za fferano di San Gimignano DOP: Zafferano di San Gimignano is another local treasure, known as the "yellow gold." Carefully cultivated in the surrounding fields, this PDO saffron is renowned for its intense aroma and vibrant color. Used in many traditional recipes, it adds a luxurious touch to dishes such as risottos, pastas and desserts, giving them a unique and prized flavor.

Tuscany's Green Gold: Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The hills around San Gimignano are dotted with centuries-old olive groves that contribute to the production of a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. With its fruity taste and enveloping aroma, it is the ideal ingredient for salads, bruschetta and traditional Tuscan dishes. A drizzle of this oil and the dish becomes an authentic celebration of the land and local culinary culture.

Through these four food and wine excellences, discovering San Gimignano is a sensory journey that delights the palate while also respecting the environment. A culinary adventure among the authentic flavors of Tuscany not to be missed.

City of the world, heritage of humanity. Where to breathe in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages and immerse yourself in the magnificent Tuscan countryside under the banner of a beautiful and sustainable lifestyle.
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