After the meal at the cooking lesson we decided to have a very light dinner at the family run restaurant next door. Light on food but robust on wine.

So after a wine induced sleep, we were ready to explore Montalcino. A fortress town designed to protect pilgrims as they made their way to Rome on the Via Francigena, the fort is now one of the primary attractions.

It also provides a panoramic view of the area.

There were also some interior details of interest.

Next we toured a complex of museums and regional wine promotion, had lunch and said goodbye to Montalcino.

Back on the farm we went back to our room.

I decided to take a walk down the farm roads and Becky chose to stay behind and dream of our next adventure.

I Followed the road for about a mile and a half.

Soon I could tell it was time to turnaround. Even I can take a hint.

Shortly after my return it was time for happy hour and wine tasting with our host.

The wine was great, so much so four bottles are making their way to our home as we speak. But the surprise was the Rosalio Grappa made on the farm. Nothing like our moonshine. Smooth and flavorful. Two bottles are along for the ride with the wine.

But wait, there’s more! At dinner we had a lesson on locally produced saffron. The pistol of the Autumn Crotus makes a spice so expensive, a kilo can be valued up to $20,000.

After more food, wine, dolce, and grappa, it was time to sleep and prepare for our journey to Roma. But first we had to turn in our assaulted car. $924 in damages, but the agent was all too familiar with the ways of the olive tree, so we had no additional charges. (The insurance may have also helped). So now we sit at the train station nursing our spritz’s until our train arrives and we start the last leg of our journey.