As some of you know, I recently returned from three weeks in Italy. I was invited by a few friends to spend some time at a villa in the hills of Umbria, not far from the border with Tuscany, and I agreed (of course).
We had finally come to the last full day at the Umbrian Villa and the plan for the day was to drive to the quintessential Tuscan town of Siena and have lunch at Osteria Le Logge, where I would have one of the more memorable meals of my life.
For me, Siena should be at the top of any bucket list when traveling to Italy. It is my favorite city in Italy (OK, maybe second to Palermo but ahead of Rome, Venice, and Florence). It is easily explored by foot, with so many photos just waiting to be taken.
I love doors…
…and palm trees.
All roads in Siena seem to lead to the Piazza del Campo, home to the famous Palio horse race every year.
Not far away was our destination: Osteria Le Logge, which had wonderful food and an incredible wine list.
It was quickly decided that we would only drink from magnums. I did not object.
1993, in case you were wondering.
After lunch, we toured the cellar, which was created around 500 B.C.?
After lunch, another quick stroll around town…
…and another view of the Piazza del Campo.
That night James opened the bottle of 1984 Sassicaia that he purchased from the Osteria. Whoa. Amazing. Still quite fruity and alive. Probably the best Italian wine I have ever been lucky enough to try.
And easily the best wine of the week. Although that magnum of Krug…
One final goodbye to the Villa, and I was on the road. I would spend the next eleven days solo, in Franciacorta and Piedmont.
the drunken cyclist 