Spring, summer and autumn are special: the air smells of flowers, and the sun warms without burning too much. In my opinion, it's the best time for an outdoor lunch, maybe in the middle of the vineyard, with family and friends, for an unforgettable day.
by Luciana Cilemmi
I can already imagine the table set with care, the attention to detail, the smell of freshly cooked dishes, the bright green of the vineyards all around, and the beautiful scenery as a backdrop for a day spent having a good time. Here are 5 rules for a perfect outdoor lunch.
The location
Choosing the place is the first step. You can dine on the ground, with blankets and pillows laid on the grass, or choose an antique table and enjoy lunch surrounded by nature. A patio is also a great idea, with a beautiful landscape to enjoy. Tuscany offers stunning scenery, with green hills, centuries-old cypress trees and rows of vineyards.
Styling details
The set table matters a great deal: small details can make it even more beautiful. Silver candlesticks, flowers and vintage cutlery give everything a romantic, cheerful air, perfect for an outdoor lunch in the vineyard.
Food
The choice of food matters just as much for a successful lunch. Choose homemade dishes, with fresh ingredients freshly picked from the garden. A vegetarian menu works well too, enjoyed outdoors and in company.
Wine pairing
For a well-organized lunch, the choice of wine is crucial: you need to pick the right wines for each course. I recommend a wine tasting that starts with a white wine such as Vernaccia di San Gimignano, moves to a young red like Chianti, then Chianti Classico and Chianti Classico Riserva, and on to fuller-bodied wines such as Super Tuscan. Finish with a meditation wine to pair with dessert.
Full day
Before or after the outdoor lunch, you can continue the day outdoors with a walk in the vineyard, or by visiting a medieval city like San Gimignano. There's plenty to do on the long, warm days of May.
