The Badia a Coltibuono is a fortified Romanesque abbey north of Gaiole that has been producing wine and olive oil since the 11th century. The abbey church dates from 1049 and is one of the finest pieces of Romanesque architecture in Chianti — plain, powerful, and beautifully proportioned. The surrounding buildings, including the old monks' quarters and refectory, now house the Stucchi Prinetti family winery and estate.
The estate offers guided tours of the abbey, wine cellars, and gardens, with tastings of their Chianti Classico, Vin Santo, and olive oil. The restaurant in the old monastery serves traditional Tuscan food using ingredients from the estate. The drive up through the forest from Gaiole is steep and spectacular in autumn when the trees turn. The property also runs cooking classes for those who want to learn Tuscan technique from the source.