Spring and autumn are the best seasons. April and May bring wildflowers across the hills and the wineries shake off the winter. September and October are harvest time in the Chianti Rufina vineyards, when the vines glow gold and the cellars are at their busiest.
The Bacco Artigiano festival in late September is the highlight of the year, with all the local wineries pouring in the streets of the old town. Summer is hot but not oppressive — the valley sits at 100 metres above sea level and catches the breeze from the surrounding hills. Winters are mild and grey; many of the hill villas and wineries close for the season.