The village of Torrenieri, which lies just across a valley from larger Montalcino, had its beginnings between the ninth and tenth centuries when the castle of Torrenier was built. The village is situated on the right bank of the Asso River and along the Via Francigena, the ancient medieval trail that takes pilgrims on an epic journey from Canterbury, England; across the channel to France and through Switzerland before crossing Italy on their way to Rome.
Tuscany is so full of history and beauty – you meet wonders of art and architecture on almost every corner. But I love the region’s homier aspects: the special sweetness of the tomatoes, the soft mozzarella, the heady scents of basil and garlic everywhere. ___Trudie Styler