DEPARTURE FROM THE UNITED STATES
Wednesday, November 8
DAY 1: Thursday, November 9
Welcome to Milan
Morning: Arrive in Milan and check in to your four-star hotel in the heart of the city.
Afternoon: Free time to explore sophisticated and fashionable Milan on your own. Private guided tours are available upon request, with the option to visit the famous La Scala opera house, the architecturally stunning Galleria, Milan's cathedral (the Duomo), and Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper.
Evening: Welcome reception with true Milanese hospitality at the private residence of Giovanna's mother, Kathleen Chiti.
DAY 2: Friday, November 10
Piedmont Wine Country
Morning: Depart Milan for the hilly area of southern Piedmont wine country, called “Le Langhe”. On the way, we will visit a passionate, charismatic, artisanal cheese maker who specializes in sheep’s milk cheeses. At his charming rustic farm we will enjoy a special cheese tasting.
Afternoon: Private Visit the Marchesi de Gresy winery known for producing some of the finest Barbaresco wines in the area. The Marchesi de Gresy winery has a rich history that dates back to the late 1700s, and it has been in the family for over two centuries. The estate has been passed down through generations, and the current owner, Alberto di Gresy, is a passionate winemaker who is dedicated to preserving the traditions of the region while incorporating modern techniques.
Evening: Gourmet dinner at the Relais Villa restaurant.
DAY 3: Saturday, November 11
Wine, History & International Truffle Fair
Morning: Depart for the town of Alba where we will meet our local guide for a tour of this beautiful town and visit the world-renowned International Truffle Fair, where top chefs from across the globe mingle with passionate food enthusiasts. There will be free time for shopping.
Afternoon: Private visit to the Vajra winery a family-owned estate that is widely regarded as one of the top Barolo producers in the country. The winery is headed by Aldo Vajra, who is widely considered to be one of Italy's greatest winemakers and a living legend in the Piedmont region. Aldo is a passionate winemaker who is dedicated to preserving the traditions of the region while incorporating modern techniques.
Evening: Gourmet dinner at a renowned local restaurant.
DAY 4: Sunday, November 12
Oddero Winery & Langhe Region
Morning: We’ll spend the morning with our local guide visiting the castle Monticello d’Alba. This private castle is one of the best preserved in Piedmont and has been owned and inhabited by Roero Counts for the last 600 years. After the tour, as a special treat, the Marchesa of the castle, Marchesa Elisa Roero di Monticello, will join us for coffee and tea.
Afternoon: Private tour of the historic Oddero Winery, one of the most revered names in Barolo winemaking. This family-owned estate has been run by generations of the Oddero family, and is now in the capable hands of sisters Mariacristina and Mariavittoria, the daughters of the legendary Barolo patriarch, Giacomo Oddero.Your guide for the tour will be Isabella Oddero, Giacomo Oddero's granddaughter. Isabella will lead you through the cellars, share the rich history of her family's estate, and offer a tasting of their renowned Barolo wines. This is an unparalleled opportunity to experience the very best of Barolo winemaking and gain a newfound appreciation for the artistry and skill that goes into creating some of the world's finest wines.
Evening: A superb authentic Piedmontese dinner awaits you at a local restaurant.
DAY 5: Monday, November 13
Return to Milan
Morning: Return to Milan.
Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely afternoon on your own, or join Giovanna and her family at a local Milan restaurant for lunch (not included). Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Milan, indulging in all of the fashionable shopping and beautiful sights.
Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner on your own.
DAY 6: Tuesday, November 14
End of Tour
Private transfer from your hotel to the Milan airports.
Itinerary specifics subject to change.