Three Farms Reinventing Tradition

In the heart of Tuscany, where the hills roll gently and the air is scented with the promise of nature, there lie three farms, each with a story as unique as the land they occupy. These farms, Podere Il Casale, Podere Invidia, and Podere CasaGori, are more than just plots of land; they are a testament to a lifestyle deeply rooted in the Italian way of life, where tradition meets reinvention. 

Podere Il Casale - A Symphony of Sustainable Living

Near the Renaissance town of Pienza, lies Podere Il Casale, a picturesque organic farm that symbolizes the epitome of rustic charm and sustainable living. Founded in 1991 by the kind and softspoken Sandra and the tall shepherd Ulisse, a couple driven by a profound connection to nature, this farm represents their journey from the urban sprawl of Zurich to the serene landscapes of rural Italy. A journey that has been challenging at times but has become a 30-year-long dream.

“Enjoy life following the rhythm of nature in a unique place in the world”
 

Podere il Casale is the narrative of their passion and perseverance. The land, dotted with sheep and framed by Cypress trees, houses a stone building over 300 years old, now the heart of their famed cheesemaking operations. Everything on the farm is done by hand, from milking the cows and making the cheese. The farm's restaurant embodies the essence of farm-to-table dining. The restaurant’s terrace is idyllically set underneath the parasol palm trees overlooking the lush countryside, and sun-kissed vineyards. The dishes served are a testament to the farm's organic ethos, you can indulge in hand-rolled pasta with ragu or little cakes filled with sheep ricotta, made with ingredients sourced directly from the farm. 

Sandra and Ulisse's journey, from urban to rural, from dreamers to doers, inspires many visitors. Their farm is a living, breathing testament to a lifestyle harmonious with nature. Their cookbook / Podere Il Casale: Family, Food and Farming in the Tuscan Countryside/ extends their philosophy and I would recommend picking one up when you are there, as well as stocking up on some of their exceptional sheep cheeses, like pecorino. [Eat at Podere il Casale]

Podere Invidia - A Journey to Joy 

Podere Invidia's story is woven into the fabric of local legend. It’s said that Saint Beate Pietro, born here in 1410, left a legacy of joy that still lingers over the farm. Sitting atop a hill, commanding 180-degree views of Tuscany, it's a place that apparently made the locals jealous, hence it’s nickname Podere Invidia; the farm of jealousy. On a clear summer night, villagers still come up the hill for star gazing or a tranquil picnic overlooking the green landscape. In Bar Caffe' La Torre the local coffee bar in the nearby village of Trequanda, we meet Lorenzo, the last inhabitant of Podere Invida. Lorenzo lived here with his family in the 1960s but moved away to Trequanda at the age of ten. From that moment onward the farm was completely deserted. 

After 62 years of neglect, in 2015, the current owners stumbled upon the abandoned farm during a countryside stroll. The property was engulfed by vegetation, its roof had caved in, trees had taken root in the former stables, and windows were absent. Despite its dilapidated state, they recognized its potential. Acquiring the property, they embarked on a five-year renovation journey. Understanding the significance of its layers of history and memories, they skilfully balanced preservation with renovation.

Podere Invidia now stands as a sanctuary to enjoy life's simple pleasures - from leisurely moments by the infinity pool to alfresco dinners overlooking the enchanting Tuscan landscape. Nestled within the courtyard is a 300-year-old pizza oven, inviting guests to craft their own culinary delights. The farm, though no longer producing olive oil or wine, now specializes in a more ephemeral product - happiness. [stay at Podere Invidia]

Podere CasaGori - living among dreams

Podere CasaGori, a beacon of organic and biodynamic farming near Pienza, stands proudly on 30 hectares of lush land. The farm's commitment to organic methods yields an array of exceptional products. CasaGori doesn't just grow grapes, olives, and hops; it waits for the perfect moment to harvest them, transforming these raw ingredients into exquisite wine, rich olive oil, artisanal beer, and delicious pasta. 

"It was my father's dream, it is my life” ~ Matteo 

Matteo is originally from Prato, a place where it's customary to work in the yarn industry, much like his father who has run his own company for around 40 years. With such a demanding job, his father rarely had free time. Yet, every weekend, he would take Matteo and his sister, along with their mom, to explore farms, country homes, estates, agritourism, and vineyards. This was his dream, a way to momentarily step away from his busy work life, embodying what he would have chosen for himself if possible. This exposure led Matteo to develop a deep appreciation for rural life and the tranquil escapes it offered from urban chaos.

Upon arriving in Casagori, Matteo crossed paths with Benedetta, sparking a partnership in both life and work. Although Benedetta's background was in fashion studies in Florence, she now embraces farm life alongside Matteo.

Benedetta is the creative mind behind all the stunning packaging and wine labels. The inspiration for their first wine label struck her during dinner, as she reflected on Matteo's dream - a dream that soon became shared between them. This led to the creation of the Suisogni label, which translates to "living among dreams." With a single, unbroken line, she illustrated two faces gazing into each other's eyes, linked by a shared thought, with hot air balloons above them symbolizing their dreams and aspirations. This design adorns their signature wine, a 100% Sangiovese that offers a classic red with a fresh and tender twist.

CasaGori's philosophy extends beyond farming to every aspect of its operation, making it more than just a farm, but a testament to living in sync with the environment. The farm's produce is not just special because of its organic nature (and beautiful packaging), but because it represents a sustainable, respectful way of life. [Visit Casagori]

In Tuscany's heart, where the past meets the present, these farms stand as a testament to a way of life that respects and cherishes the land and its gifts.