Buchetta del Vino: A Night of Wine and Wonder in Florence

Buchetta del vino, Marissa Lico australian artist in florence italy.

When in Florence, there’s a peculiar charm to the buchetta del vino—small, historic wine windows dotting the walls of centuries-old buildings. These quaint portals have a story to tell, one of tradition, resilience, and the eternal Italian love of wine.

One evening in the summer of 2023, my husband, my mum, and I set out on an unforgettable adventure, hopping between these unique windows to sample some of Florence’s finest wines. What began as curiosity quickly turned into an experience brimming with laughter, discovery, and a deeper appreciation for this beautiful city.

What Are Buchetta del Vino?

Dating back to the Renaissance, these “wine holes” allowed Florentine families to sell their wine directly to customers. It was a clever way to bypass regulations, maintain social distance during plagues (long before it became a modern necessity!), and keep the wine flowing. Today, many of these windows have been restored, reviving an ancient tradition for locals and tourists alike.

Our Night of Wine Window Wanderings

Equipped with a hand-crafted map by yours truely, we embarked on our journey, eager to embrace the adventure that lay ahead. Our first stop was at Osteria Belle Donne, where we were greeted with a crisp Chianti that danced on our palates. As the evening wore on, we discovered windows offering not only wine but also prosecco, spritzes, and small bites like crostini and truffle pecorino.

One of the highlights was La Buchetta del Vino 27R, nestled in a quiet street but serving wine that could make even the most crowded piazzas feel serene. My mum’s favourite was a smooth Brunello, while my husband couldn’t get enough of the local Sangiovese blends.

The evening was filled with joy, but our adventure didn’t end when we decided to head back to our accommodation. Somewhere along Florence’s winding streets, we took a wrong turn and found ourselves utterly lost. The city, though magical at night, became a maze of alleys and softly glowing lamps. It took us an extra hour of wandering—and a lot of laughter—before we finally stumbled back to our home for the night.

Top Wine Windows in Florence

Osteria Belle Donne: Famous for its Chianti and friendly service.

La Buchetta del Vino 27R: A hidden gem with exceptional reds.

Buca del Vino Santo Spirito: Perfect for prosecco and small snacks.

Buchetta in Borgo Pinti: Known for its rustic charm and variety.

Each window has its unique story, and part of the fun is uncovering what makes each special.

Why You Should Try This in Florence

The buchetta del vino experience is more than a wine tasting—it’s a journey through Florence’s history and streets. Each sip connects you to the artisans who first sold their wines centuries ago, and each window offers a glimpse of the city’s ingenuity and culture.

So, the next time you find yourself in Florence, grab a map of these wine windows, gather your companions, and embark on a night of indulgence and adventure. Just remember to pay close attention to the street signs on your way home!

Salute!

wine window in Florence Italy, Marissa Lico.

wine window in Florence Italy, Marissa Lico.

wine window in Florence Italy, Marissa Lico.

wine window in Florence Italy, Marissa Lico.

wine window in Florence Italy, Marissa Lico.

All photos featured in this post are my own. Please do not copy, reproduce, or use them without my explicit permission.

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