“In vino veritas” – in wine, there is truth. This Latin phrase may be ancient, but its meaning has grown deeper and more personal for me over the years. Because in wine, I don’t just find truth—I find purpose, craftsmanship, and, connection. I find my work.
As part of my professional life, I’ve visited countless wineries across Tuscany—not as a tourist, but with a clear mission: to discover outstanding producers who are authentic, sustainable, and ready to shine on the international stage, especially in the American and European markets. Exploring hidden gems, family-run cellars, and renowned estates isn’t a leisure activity—it’s a core part of what I do.
The Journey Begins – In a Fiat Abarth, of Course
I owe much of this journey to my dear friend Rossella, a wine expert whose passion is contagious. On one of our first trips, we jumped into our tiny Fiat Abarth cabriolet and set off across the rolling hills of Tuscany. Along the way, Rossella gave me what I can only describe as a miniature sommelier course on wheels.
That day, I learned something fundamental: wine is not just taste—it’s a story. It’s the memory of a vintage. It’s the meeting of earth, sky, and human hands.
Grapes, Roses, and Wisdom
One of the most beautiful aspects of winemaking in Tuscany is the intimate relationship between agriculture and nature. Did you know many vineyards plant roses at the ends of their vine rows? It’s not just for charm—roses are sensitive to powdery mildew and show signs of disease earlier than the vines. They serve as an early warning system for winemakers.
This kind of quiet knowledge, this dialogue between nature and experience, is what makes a winery truly exceptional.
Sangiovese – The Blood of Jupiter
At the heart of Tuscany’s famous red wines lies the Sangiovese grape. The name comes from Sanguis Jovis, Latin for “the blood of Jupiter.” Both Rosso di Montalcino and Brunello di Montalcino are made exclusively from this variety, and once you taste them inside an authentic Montalcino cellar—surrounded by oak barrels and stone walls—you’ll understand why.
Each glass is deep, complex, and never predictable. And behind every label lies a personal story: a family legacy, a returning daughter, a bold innovator, or a time-honored tradition.
Montalcino – Where Wine Is More Than Just Wine
Just south of Florence, perched on a hilltop with sweeping views, lies the village of Montalcino—home to over 250 wineries. But don’t think you can “tick them off the list” in one quick tour. Montalcino demands your time and attention.
With every visit, I learn something new—a harvesting technique, a winemaking philosophy, or a historical anecdote shared by locals who’ve been working the land for generations.
This Is My Work—and My Passion
Exploring the vineyards of Tuscany is not a hobby. It’s my profession and my purpose. I continuously seek out producers who truly believe in what they do—those who care deeply about sustainability, who create wines of integrity, and who manage to honor tradition while embracing innovation.
If you’d like to discover some of these places yourself, I’d be delighted to help. Whether it’s a half-day wine tasting tour or a full-day visit to multiple wineries, we can tailor your experience to your taste—guided in English, German, or French.
Just send me an email at victoria@victoria.cruises, and let’s plan your unforgettable Tuscany wine experience.
Because wine is more than just a drink. It’s a lifestyle, a story, and a meeting of souls.
Tuscany, with all its flavors and stories, continues to shape not only my work—but also my heart.