There’s so much to love about this Florence but the crowded tourist conditions are well documented. We had not been back since 2017 and only returned because of a meeting with a winemaker just west of town.
I will post more broadly about our experience separately. This is about the beloved Enoteca. Somehow, we’d never been, though we did enjoy their Osteria on our last visit.
We reserved for dinner with great anticipation of well aged Tuscan treats. But when handed the wine list, there was none to be found. I inquired and was told “nothing left!” I persisted, having heard reports of reluctance to serve them to just anyone . We made our bona fides apparent. I don’t think this was a “no soup for you” scenario. We had some deep conversations about wine, he comped us a glass of Barolo and 2 as well as a Chinato and Vin Santo. He said, they’ve been depleted, it’s nearly impossible to source more and the success rate was abysmal. This last part surprised me given how many WB’ers have posted about their great outcomes.
Disappointed, we soldiered on and had a great night. We let our server guide the wine and food selections. The tagliolino with butter, Parmigiano and brilliant San Miniato truffles was impeccable in its in precision and simplicity. The veal tongue was delightful. I was astounded this was only 20€ - I was waiting for an 35€ supplement. Only a less than tender duck breast (with still more of those truffles) didn’t shine.
The wine selections (all by the glass) were terrific and included Sergio Barale Brut, Terenzuola Vermentino, Rodano Chianti Classico Riserva (while pouring this we were informed that the maker of this wine was sitting behind us along with the Rampolla winemaker), Villanova (a new IGT project from Sergio Manetti sold exclusively here) that was pure & silky, Lisini Brunello, Bonavita Nerello, Lodali Barolo, 2007 Vin Santo Riserva & Cappellano Barolo Chinato.
As we were leaving, we said thanks for the fine recommendations. To which, our server replied that it was great not to have to worrry about dead wines.
All in, well worth visiting.
