Have you ever wanted to learn to cook in Italy? Tour the beautiful Tuscan countryside? And return home with recipes handed down over generations? Then meet Tuscan Women Cook, celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. Since 2000, this one-of-a-kind experience has welcomed travelers from around the globe to explore the rich traditions, flavors, and culture of the Italian region ensconced in the beautiful village of Montefollonico.
Since its inception, Tuscan Women Cook has been more than a cooking program—it’s been a gateway to the authentic Tuscan lifestyle. Families, couples, friends, and solo adventurers have embraced the opportunity to cook alongside local nonne (“grandmothers”), dine at family-owned trattorias, and taste wines from celebrated Tuscan vineyards.
During each day of the week-long program, guests cook together and eat like the locals one day and at Michelin-starred restaurants on another. A group of 16 participants learn to cook authentic Italian recipes from some of the best cooks in all of Italy, the nonne of Montefollonico. These extraordinary women share family recipes in hands-on lessons.
For wine lovers, Tuscan Women Cook is located in the Orcia DOC in the heart of Brunello de Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano country, and borders on the Chianti wine region. This is the center of the new Italian wine renaissance and a dream locale for a getaway with family and friends. Wine connoisseurs plan the ultimate bucket list trip here to sample new wines and visit the spectacular vineyards.
This milestone year is a testament to the trust and loyalty of guests who return season after season, and to the nonne, chefs, winemakers, and artisans who have shared their knowledge and passion. “We’re incredibly grateful to the vibrant community of travelers and locals who have made these 25 years so special,” said Coleen Kirnan, owner and host of Tuscan Women Cook. “Their stories, laughter, and love for this region have inspired us to continually create new, unforgettable experiences.” To celebrate this silver anniversary, Tuscan Women Cook will be introducing exclusive additions to its renowned program. In addition to the signature cooking classes, wine tastings, and cultural tours, guests will be able to enjoy day cooking classes year-round and exclusive adventures designed to deepen their connection to Tuscany’s rich heritage and flavors—all while preserving the personal, intimate touch that makes Tuscan Women Cook truly unique.
As Kirnan notes, “Our program is your invitation to live, breathe, and taste Tuscany in a way that’s unrivaled. We can’t wait to share the next chapter.”
Tuscan Women Cook guests stay at the beautiful I Castagni residence located within the walls of Montefollonico. Perched at the very top of the historic town, guests enjoy spectacular views of the Chiana Valley and the picturesque village from their suites and I Castagni’s well-appointed expansive outdoor terrace.
And after a day of cooking, eating, and wine tasting, participants are taken on shopping and sightseeing trips in the many beautiful villages and towns of Tuscany.
Tuscan Women Cook’s week-long program runs during the months of May, June, September, and October. Put on your apron, gather around the old farmhouse table, get wrist-deep in pasta dough, and learn Tuscan cooking from the source. For more information and to make a reservation, visit www.TuscanWomenCook.com.
