Chestnuts and Chianti: A Cozy Italian Fall Food & Wine Guide

As the golden hues of November settle over the Italian countryside, the season invites us to slow down, savor, and celebrate. Few pairings capture the rustic charm of autumn better than roasted chestnuts and a glass of Chianti. This week, we’re diving into the heart of Italian fall traditions—with recipes, wine pairings, and a preview of our holiday entertaining guide.

🌰 Chestnuts: The Soul of Autumn

Chestnuts (castagne) have been cherished in Italian kitchens for centuries. Whether roasted over open flames or ground into flour for hearty dishes, they bring warmth and depth to seasonal cooking.

Try this simple chestnut soup:

Add 2 cups of peeled roasted chestnuts and 3 cups of vegetable broth.
Simmer for 20 minutes, then blend until smooth.
Finish with a drizzle of truffle oil and fresh thyme.

Serve with crusty bread and a sprinkle of Parmigiano for a comforting starter.

🍷 Chianti: Tuscany’s Autumn Elixir

Chianti, with its bold cherry notes and earthy undertones, is the perfect companion to chestnut-based dishes. This Tuscan red enhances the nutty sweetness of chestnuts and complements the richness of fall meals.

Pairing tip: Enjoy Chianti with mushroom risotto, roasted meats, or a slice of castagnaccio—a traditional chestnut flour cake with rosemary and pine nuts.

🎁 Holiday Guide Preview: Rustic Entertaining Essentials

As we prepare for the holidays, now’s the time to gather cozy, Italian-inspired essentials for your seasonal table. Here’s a sneak peek at our favorite finds:

Olive wood serving boards – perfect for antipasti spreads.
Chestnut honey from Piedmont – a unique gift or cheese pairing.
Artisan Chianti bottles – ideal for gifting or sipping fireside.
Handwoven Italian linens – add warmth and elegance to your table.

Celebrate the season with rustic flavors, timeless traditions, and a touch of Italian elegance. Whether you’re cooking, sipping, or hosting, let chestnuts and Chianti be your guide to a cozy, flavorful November.

📖 Discover More in My Award-Winning Book!
For more seasonal recipes, entertaining tips, and Italian holiday traditions, explore my book The Basic Art of Italian Cooking: Holidays and Special Occasions (2nd Edition)—winner of the prestigious Gourmand World Cookbook Awards. It’s your go-to guide for celebrating with authentic Italian flair, from festive feasts to heartfelt gatherings.

🛒 Order your copy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Basic-Art-Italian-Cooking-Occasions-2nd/dp/1928911196