We took a long and scenic route from Montepulciano to Montalcino with a detour to Pienza for lunch. We had an excellent lunch at the Lonely Planet recommended Trattoria Latte di Luna with a half bottle Brunello.

Brunello is produced only in the Montalcino area. The method of production is strictly controlled and it is reputed to be the best wine in Italy.

The scenery was excellent but the climb up to Castiglione got to us. It was long and steep. On the way up we could see a tower that we assumed marked the top.

We were relieved when we reached it, but the road continued to climb for another 2km by which time the tower was well below us. Harsh words were spoken.

Happily the climb up to Montalcino was a lot easier than we expected. The accommodation was outside the walls and had a pleasant view.

After settling in and scrubbing up, we walked the 500 metes to the town and had a truly excellent dinner at the Lonely Planet recommended Re di Macchia.

The next day was very cold and windy so we had an indulgent day, eating in the apartment.We had bread, prosciutto, cheese and cakes for lunch with a bottle of the 2002 Brunello and home-made ravioli for dinner with a bottle of the 2001. Most of the ingredients were bought at the excellent bakery opposite the Re di Macchia.