This document provides descriptions of several locations in Tuscany, Italy, including Borgo Syrah luxury villas and vineyard, Cortona, Florence, Siena/Montepulciano, Lake Trasimeno, Perugia, and Arezzo. It highlights the rich art, architecture, culture, landscapes, food and wine of each region and invites the reader to explore the history and beauty of Tuscany.

2. “Life well spent is long.”
Leonardo da Vinci

5. TUSCANY imparts a charm and splendor all its own. Comprising ten alluring provinces, the region invites exploration
of all it has to offer, whether you are in pursuit of extraordinary art and architecture, or fine wine and cuisine. It's yours to
discover wherever you choose to roam.
Celebrated for its pastoral landscape, the vast Tuscan countryside is a patchwork of rolling hills marked by sprawling vine-
yards and lush olive groves. Waves of sunflowers, poppies and ancient stone walls paint a rustic tapestry of a sepia-tinted terrain
swathed in warm Italian sun. Yet no measure of this broad view is marred by the age-old Cyprus trees which fleck and line
this familiar and enduring landscape. But the real allure lies in the ancient towns. Sleepy remote villages tempt you to wander
narrow, cobbled streets, while medieval hamlets challenge exploration of residual castle fortifications, some replete with their
ancient towering ramparts. Here and there, chapel steeples reach high above villages, and the occasional Gothic cathedral rises
majestically to greet the sky. Flowing amidst this panoramic splendor is the ever-gentle Arno, as it winds its way from Florence
to Pisa in pursuit of the Ligurian Sea. Having been the backdrop of Master painters throughout the ages, this ageless land is
T USCANY
sure to prove rousing.
If you find yourself in search of culture, Tuscany is sure to enchant. The legacy of this wondrous region lies in its art and
history, which spans the work of the early Etruscans all the way to the height of its Golden Age, an era which produced the
likes of Michelangelo, da Vinci and the de Medicis. Tuscany is also notable for producing writers, scientists, architects, musicians
and artists, all of whom have placed their stamp on the world, as evidenced by the experiments of Galileo, the grandeur of a
Puccini opera, and the literary world of Dante, Petrarch and Boccaccio. From the Etruscan theater and Roman baths at
Fiesole, to the Gothic architecture of Siena, and the innumerable sites of Florence, every excursion reveals a glimpse of history.
With every destination a treasure, Tuscany is your land of journeys.

7. BORGO SYRAH Nowhere could the allure of owning an Italian villa prove more attractive than in Tuscany, a
region in which history, art and culture convene to form a rich backdrop to every sojourn. To enhance the appeal, imagine a
rather exclusive luxury villa, in one of seven eighteenth century properties perched amid the rolling hills of the Tuscan coun-
tryside. Add in fractional ownership of the vineyard on the sprawling estate of the prestigious Tenimenti d'Alessandro winery in
Cortona, along with a personal annual yield that would delight any true lover of fine Italian wine. Sound enticing? This is
what investment in Borgo Syrah delivers.
Characterized by the charm you would come to expect in villa ownership, the buildings of Borgo Syrah, which reside on the
winery's extensive grounds, comprise a farmhouse and its related outbuildings, all part and parcel of an ages-old farm that
later was utilized to complement the workings of the winery. Today these seven properties encompass the bulk of the resort,
BORGO SYRAH
which has been transformed into several private well-appointed apartments and three magnificent country houses, all of which
feature fractional vineyard ownership. Each dwelling consists of a blend of the rustic and the contemporary, custom designed
by one of Italy's premier designers who also happens to be a co-owner of the winery. This fact alone signifies the level of atten-
tion relegated to the design and restoration of the property.
Aside from the land's rich history and the beauty of the surrounding countryside, the appeal of Borgo Syrah rests in the pri-
vate ownership of a Tuscan villa. Whether the attraction lures you toward a luxury apartment or one of the select country
houses, each residence occupies an incomparable view facing an expanse of the estate, be it rows of grape vines, a copse of
olive groves, tranquil gardens, or clusters of centuries-old trees. To further enchant, the living quarters share an abundance of
material expressive of the area, such as terracotta tiled floors, traditional stone and brick work, and, in select quarters, period
frescoes.
Topping this off is the benefit of fractional vineyard ownership. Four acres of the famed Tenimenti d'Alessandro vineyard are
split amongst villa owners, yielding roughly 250 bottles of private-labeled wine per year, per owner, reserved for their very own
private wine cellar at Borgo Syrah. Tenimenti d'Alessandro is the maker of such famous wines as Il Bosco, Cortona and
Fontarca, proving this is vineyard ownership at its best. The splendor for you, as property owner and purveyor of exceptional
wine for friends and family, cannot be outmatched. With each visit, your dream becomes your reality, and it is one that you
will pass down for generations to come.
Whether a wine enthusiast or simply a lover of all things Italian, Borgo Syrah will provide the ideal locale for the discerning
vacationer longing for a place unlike any other. Of this lifelong venture one thing remains certain: each time you embark on
your journey here, you return home a little greater the authority on Italian wine and culture, and a lot more contented with
your personal investment.

9. BORGO SYRAH

11. BORGO SYRAH Our Philosophy. As art collectors and wine enthusiasts alike, our objective in establishing Borgo
Syrah was to foster a sense of pleasurable recreation, while ensuring an outcome that would honour the historical and artistic
heritage of the estate. In designing the residences, we sought to remain in keeping with both the significance of the proper-
ty and the context of the locality, paying tribute to what originated as land of the nobility and emerged later as a working
farm. In our efforts, we took into consideration the essence of each structure – its original purpose and the fundamental com-
position in relation to the whole – and merged Tuscan sensibilities with contemporary aesthetics. Our secondary goal in this
endeavour was to lend a genuine sense of investment in the ownership of the residences, as well as regards the winery, so that
a common purpose in the goal and a sense of appreciation in the end result was derived from the undertaking.
Of equal importance is the surrounding countryside and our philosophy of living in harmony within it. Nature plays a large
BORGO SYRAH
role in setting a vivid landscape, so painstaking care and attention is paid to the vineyards, as well as to the fruit, Acacia and
Cedar trees, the olive groves, and the gardens. We nurture the terrain as much as we do the properties atop it because we rec-
ognize that not only is this an investment for all concerned, but because this effort consigns a degree of preservation. As such,
every home includes a private garden, yet still encompasses the loveliness of the area in full, including the links to the winery
and vineyards, and the spectacular view over the valley. Nature remains at the heart of our efforts at Borgo Syrah.
In merging the serene with everyday life, we recognize that it is possible to enjoy a wealth of comfort, in an area rich in his-
tory and culture, all the while protecting all that exists here. We have imbued the utmost level of quality, from the design and
restoration of the residences, to the gardens and surrounding landscape, and finally on to the labours of winemaking. This
approach signifies our singular devotion to excellence and the many ways in which we can manifest our mark of distinction.
If anything, this is the one place in which to leave behind the concerns of everyday life. After a day amidst the gardens or
engaged in activity, enjoy a glass of wine on the terrace with a “salut” to the good life. Renew yourself and discover all that is
Borgo Syrah.

13. CORTONA, with its prevailing medieval character, is equally ancient and noble, making it a robust tourist destination.
Situated on a hill, this city resides 50 miles from Florence in the Arezzo province. Clay-colored roofs and amber stone struc-
tures blanket an entire swath of hillside, which is set against a profusion of rising emerald green Cypress trees. Surrounding
the town are the gentle, sloping mounds and basins of the ever-familiar Tuscan plains, forever a collage of textures. Far in the
distance lies a panorama of dusky mountain ranges overlooking the beautiful Lake Trasimeno, an added boon to the area's
stunning views.
Adventure looms here, as you traverse narrow, pitched streets to encounter a town richly endowed in architectural pursuits.
Twenty-one churches and cathedrals dominate the district, all of which reflect a variety of period elements, from Byzantine
to Romanesque, Medieval to Renaissance. As you work your way through coursing streets, you'll be led to any one of the city's
main squares where you may enjoy an afternoon interval in a nearby café. Better yet, after a day pursuing Etruscan artifacts
and the works of Renaissance painters, head for the Piazza della Repubblica for an evening meal and a glass of wine, as soft
CORTONA
lavender hues paint the square at dusk.
Further wanderings lead you to glimpses of old Etruscan tombs or stone walls in the Cyclopean style, still standing in ruin
after their formation some 3000 years ago. End your quest by climbing atop the hilly rise to take in the fabulous views. As
the setting for Frances Mayes' Under the Tuscan Sun, Cortona is captivating.

15. FLORENCE is a city of wonders which every vacation must retain on its itinerary. Located on the northwest coast of
Italy, this stunning locale provides for both a vigorous, as well as a restorative, escape. Considered one of the most beautiful
cities in the world, you can glimpse the beauty of Florence around every bend. While famous for its Renaissance art and archi-
tecture, foremost in this city is its romantic ambiance, evidenced in the beauty of the placid Arno River, which runs through
the city as it passes from the Apennines toward Pisa. Although striking from afar, the city is best seen up close. Take an inti-
mate stroll through its streets; stray along its cobbled piazzas; and amble across its many bridges, particularly the famed Ponte
Vecchio and its bevy of shops. At night, the city is awash in light, creating a stunning atmosphere where you can take in a
meal of traditional Florentine cuisine and a bottle of fine Italian wine.
As the capital of the region, this vibrant city forms the hub of art and culture. Churches, museums and palaces abound, while
monuments, such as the Duomo, serve to reveal a view as much as they shape one. Considered the cradle of the Renaissance,
F LO R EN C E
the geographical confines of Florence produced numerous works due to the accomplishments of its many notable residents.
Today, these works continue to reside within the city's figurative walls. If fine art is of interest, there is ample opportunity for
you to pamper your senses, with compositions of Raphael and da Vinci, Botticelli and Masaccio, plus many more. Art patrons
have been known to swoon as a result of the spectacular beauty surrounding them. Aside from these works of art, sculpture,
architecture, music, theater and cinema are also part and parcel of this remarkable place. Take in a little or see it all; whatever
your preference, you're guaranteed to be rendered speechless.

17. SIENA, one of Italy's finest medieval cities, is a major tourist attraction as well as home to one of the oldest
Universities in Europe, contributing to a vibrant student culture and a bustling city atmosphere. Recognized for its
period architecture, much of this city's well-preserved Gothic buildings originate from the tail end of the Middle
Ages, the era in which Siena reached its economic peak. Indeed, this magnificent architecture should be foremost
on your itinerary. Second on your list should be a visit to the Piazza del Campo, celebrated for its large, fan-shaped
piazza. Siena also offers many cultural activities, such as classical concerts, theater, the Siena Jazz Festival, and the
famous Il Palio di Siena, a festival and horse race run in the Piazza del Campo. And when you are eager to shop,
the stores of Siena offer many local items, such as leather products, fabric, glazed terracotta, jewelry, and regional
food and wine, along with a regular farmer's market each Wednesday in the Fortezza Mediceana.
SIENA / MOTEPULCIANO
Located in the center of Tuscany, the countryside of Siena paints a lovely contrast to this otherwise commanding
city. Twining vineyards and gnarled olive vines course through the Chianti area between Florence and Siena. To the
south, the Arbia valley leads you to the town of Montalcino, home to the prominent Brunello wine. Most notable
is the area around La Crete, which boasts rock formations adjacent to low, rolling hills, with a grain field that sits
below a medieval fortress. You are sure to be drawn to this blend of artful beauty and historic elegance.
MONTEPULCIANO is one of the most charming hill towns in Tuscany. This ancient Etruscan maintains endear-
ing vistas and a rich history, making for a beguiling excursion. The city sits upon a limestone ridge, fortified in stone under
the direction of Cosimo I de' Medici in 1511. As a notable producer of food and wine, Montepulciano is a wonderful site for
indulging your epicurean senses. Its Vino Nobile is one of the many wines from the region celebrated by connoisseurs every-
where, and the town is recognized for its fabulous cheese, pasta, and other appetizing fare.
As with most of Tuscany, the architecture is not to be underestimated. Because Montepulciano enjoyed a long phase of pros-
perity, roughly from the end of the Middle Ages through the Renaissance, there are many well-preserved architectural edifices
worth exploring. One masterpiece of architecture, which must not be missed, is the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio,
situated just outside of the town and worth the jaunt. The city streets themselves warrant a rambling trek with picturesque
detours through small roads that crisscross off the Piazza Grande in the center of town. And if you can't get enough
Renaissance art, the town is resplendent in treasured works. With such tempting diversions, Montepulciano is very much the
“pearl” it was so named.

19. LAKE TRASIMENO is Italy's largest non-Alpine lake. Relatively shallow, Trasimeno offers mirror-like reflections
of the majestic northern mountains, and yielding rolling hills and olive groves to the west and south. A few charming small
towns surround the lake, where you can explore historic sites, probe local commodities, and take in a meal or two. If you're in
LAKE T R A S I M EN O / P ERU G I A / A REZ ZO
the mood for recreation, a bicycle path and numerous cross-country trails also border the lake.
Home to the early Etruscan civilization, the lake holds a prominent place in history. During the second Punic war in 217
B.C., in one of the major engagements, Hannibal massacred two large Roman legions. Since then, several castles have been
erected around the lake, which now lie in various states of survival or decay. The most famous is the Castello del Leone
("Fortress of the Lion"), a pentagonal-shaped castle built by Emperor Frederick II, which served as a fortified stronghold
between Rome and Florence. If you're so inclined, some of these fortresses make for fascinating discovery.
PERUGIA the capital city of the region of Umbria, is a lively town offering much in the way of amusement. Home to
an Italian language school, a fine arts academy, and one of the oldest universities in Italy, Perugia is quite a colorful town.
There is no shortage of sites to unearth in this municipality, from magnificent churches and cathedrals, to Umbria's master-
piece of medieval architecture - the Fontana Maggiore, and on to one of Italy's greatest buildings, the Palazzo dei Priori.
Everywhere you wander here, the material remains of the Etruscans are readily evident, whether traversing the city's steep,
narrow alleys or the circuit of surrounding walls that offer a spectacular view of the valley.
When you find yourself seeking the hustle and bustle of Italian urban life, the Piazza IV Novembre is one of the most exquisite
public squares in all of Italy. Catch a glimpse of a Gothic cathedral, examine the many prominent architectural reliefs, or enjoy
a cocktail at one of the local jazz cafes. The ambiance is bewitching and temptations, such as the legendary Perugina chocolate,
await your every encounter.
AREZZO, as it rises up from the floodplain of the Arno, is a delightful hill-town. Known as one of several important
Etruscan cities, as observed in the many remains and artifacts still existent from the period, Arezzo has made remarkable con-
tributions to Western civilization. Rich in artistic and musical history, there is much to see and do here. This is a city for a
walking tour, with scores of beautiful Gothic and Romanesque churches, towers and palaces, and the arresting Vasari Loggia
on Piazza Grande, as well as remnants of the ancient Roman Amphitheatre. Because of its topography, the town is carved
into two sections, with its upper segment attended by a cathedral, town hall, and the Medici Fortress, from which narrow city
streets branch off toward the lower end.
Due to its profound influence during the Middle Ages, Arezzo hosts a medieval festival every year featuring knights on horse-
back and its townspeople in medieval garb. If you're fond of wandering marketplaces, Arezzo hosts one of the best monthly
antiques market right in the piazza where you will discover antiques, paintings, sculpture, jewelry, and more. The area is
renowned for its foundries, including a large gold manufacturing plant, and the early production of red painted vases (known
as the “coral vases”), which were traded throughout the Roman Empire. With its charming shops and cafes, Arezzo entertains
never a dull day.