5 Ways to Taste San Miniato

In San Miniato, the famous white truffle is harvested from September to December but you can still find truffles all year round. From November to March, there is the black truffle, from January to April the “marzuolo” variety, while “scorzone” is the name of the summer truffle.

To go hunting for truffles, truffle hunters are aided by a trained dog and a “vanghetto,” a special tool similar to a small spade. From puppyhood, truffle dogs are trained to find the precious tuber. They are well rewarded when they discover a truffle, so they learn not to eat it.

Seeking out truffles is an ancient tradition in Tuscany. It is not a job but a passion, with only one rule: respect nature.

From pasta to desserts, learn how to make delicious dishes with fresh truffles and enjoy a tasty meal with family and friends. After a morning of “hunting” in the woods, you can participate in a fun and interesting cooking class. One key thing to keep in mind? Truffles (no matter what kind) must be fresh!

If you visit the historic center of San Miniato, don’t forget to stop at the Macelleria Falaschi. Since 1925, this butcher shop has been producing high-quality cured meats following the same rules and preparation methods handed down from generation to generation. Their products are exclusively made by hand, with meat from pigs raised on local farms.

The famous Via Francigena runs through the hills where the San Miniato red and white wines and Vin Santo are produced. Local products include a very special wine made from Tempranillo, a Spanish black grape variety grown to produce full-bodied red wines.

In medieval times, Via Francigena was the main road connecting northern Europe to Rome. San Miniato was thus an important religious place and episcopal see. Some priests were also in charge of overseeing agricultural activities. 

San Miniato boasts excellent food producers and renowned chefs, so we suggest you stop by one of the many restaurants in town to sample some local specialties.

Check out the Vetrina Toscana website at vetrina.toscana.it to find the best restaurants in San Miniato.