The province of Lucca is home to many wineries practicing biodynamic farming, in which manual operations substitute machines and soil fertilization is carried out with cow manure, leaving no room for any GMOs, synthetic chemicals, fertilizers, or pesticides. Nestled within Garfagnana's rolling hills, Podere Còncori is a biodynamic winery owned and operated by Gabriele de Prato, who produces a variety of wines ranging from Syrah to Pinot Blanc and Pinot Nero and in his practice aims to restore dignity of the wines produced locally.
As a biodynamic vintner, Gabriele relies on his perception and understanding of his vines, "a constant dialogue with nature using ones senses: to walk, touch, see, smell, listen and taste; this is the meaning of biodynamic farming for me." For less than 30 euro, travelers can book a visit to Podere Còncori, where Gabriele will walk his guests through his vineyard, passionately explaining the ins and outs of biodynamic farming, before guiding them to a tasting room where his wines are poured alongside crostini and homemade pasta cooked by his wife.
Stay at the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciccio Resort & Spa, which offers majestic views of the Serchio Valley (and Podere Còncori from some of the rooms). The property has a strong relationship with Podere Còncori, arranging visits for guests who are curious to submerge themselves in the biodynamic wine culture. Located on a two-mile estate, guests can discover nearby unexplored medieval villages, Barga and Lucca, or travel within one or two hours to well-known city favorites, like Florence, Pisa, and Cinque Terre. The property also offers a full-service spa, two restaurants serving local cuisine, two swimming pools, a health club, on-site cooking lessons and market tours with the chef, and varied excursions within the surrounding area.