September in Mugello: Wine and Tuscan Flavours

When summer gives way to autumn, the landscapes of Mugello are painted in warm hues, the crisp air wraps around the countryside and a special atmosphere begins to take hold. In this article, we take you through the vineyards and villages of Mugello during the harvest season, to discover the authentic charm of this land; a journey through flavours, scenery, and the people keeping alive a tradition that, even today, brings to the table one of our most beloved beverages: wine.

The grape harvest is the time of year when ripe grapes are gathered to begin the wine-making process. It is a crucial phase in the viticultural cycle, but also a moment rich in cultural and social significance. In Tuscany, and especially in the Mugello area, the harvest is not just agricultural work: it is a tradition that is repeated each year with the same enthusiasm and care as in the past. The harvest can be carried out with the help of machinery, but in many farms across the Mugello, the traditional method is still preferred—made up of slow, precise gestures: pruning shears in hand, crates carefully filled, working side by side.

This artisanal approach not only ensures a more meticulous selection of grape clusters but also turns the harvest into a moment of connection. It’s an activity that involves the whole community: families, friends, seasonal workers, and increasingly, curious visitors eager to experience it first hand. Among conversations between the rows, hands stained with grape must, and the scent of grapes in the air, the harvest becomes much more than a simple gathering—it’s a ritual that tells the story of the deep bond between the land, its people, and tradition.

Visiting Mugello in September means immersing yourself in an authentic experience. The vineyards are full of ripe grape clusters ready to be harvested, the days are still pleasant, and nature offers postcard-worthy landscapes. Many local farms open their doors to visitors, offering the chance to witness — and sometimes even take part in — the grape harvest or the grape pressing. It’s a unique opportunity to see up close how wine is made and to meet the people behind its production.

During the harvest season, wine takes center stage, but Mugello has much more to offer. Here, you can savour a well-rounded experience of delicious food, warm hospitality, and deep-rooted rural traditions. You'll find simple settings overlooking the hills, renovated old farmhouses, restaurants, and trattorias where you can pair a good glass of wine with traditional dishes such as:

• Mugello-style potato tortelli, made with handmade fresh pasta. The filling is simple yet flavorful: boiled mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg. Originally a humble dish, today it stands as a true gem of Tuscan mountain cuisine. The most traditional version is served with a hearty meat ragù, but it’s not uncommon to find them topped with butter and sage or mushroom sauces during autumn.

• Unsalted Tuscan bread served with freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil. Tuscan bread is known for a unique feature: it contains no salt. This sets it apart from nearly all other Italian breads. The origins of this choice date back to the Middle Ages, when salt was a precious and expensive commodity — and at times, even taxed. This bread, with its neutral flavor and crunchy crust, pairs perfectly with “novello”, the freshly pressed extra virgin olive oil. In October, when the olive harvest begins, the new oil has an intense, slightly spicy flavor. Just drizzle it over a slice of freshly toasted bread — perhaps with a pinch of salt — and you’ll taste one of the most authentic combinations of the Tuscan table.

• Flatbread with grapes (often called stiacciata coll’uva in local dialect) is a seasonal dessert traditionally made during the grape harvest, especially in September. It’s a rustic recipe from peasant cuisine, prepared with just a few ingredients: leavened bread or pizza dough, black wine grapes (typically canaiolo), sugar, and extra virgin olive oil. What makes it special is that the grapes are used whole — skin, seeds, and all — just like in the old days. This gives the flatbread an authentic flavor: sweet with a slightly tart note, and a juicy texture. It's a dessert commonly enjoyed as an afternoon snack or breakfast, and it’s closely tied to the season — it’s hard to find outside the grape harvest period.

In September, Mugello is not just about vineyards and grape harvests. It’s also about historic villages waiting to be discovered — with quiet squares, artisan workshops, and local festivals where you can soak a warm, authentic atmosphere. At this time of year, local communities come together and open their doors to visitors, with the goal of preserving traditions and creating meaningful encounters. Walking through the hills of Mugello means immersing yourself in a well-kept rural landscape, made of vineyards, ploughed fields, country roads, and panoramic views. The days are still bright and pleasant — perfect for pausing to admire the sunset or simply to breathe in the fresh air, rich with the scent of earth and grape must, while savouring a good glass of wine.

Choosing Mugello in this season means finding more than just a vacation — it’s a true local experience. A time of year to be lived through the flavours of the table, through farming traditions, and through the simple gestures that tell an ancient story. And when it’s time to leave, you take something lasting with you: the memory of wine tasted among the vines, and a meal enjoyed in good company.

If you're looking for a holiday away from the crowds, immersed in nature and tradition, September in Mugello is the perfect choice. It’s not just about seeing — it’s about becoming part of it: harvesting a grape cluster with your own hands, talking to the producers, tasting a local wine right where it was born. These are the kinds of experiences that stay with you — and make you want to come back. Let yourself be surprised by the charm of the most authentic Tuscany — a land still genuine, welcoming, and rich in history. Collichiari accommodations offer stays surrounded by greenery, ideal for couples, families, or groups of friends seeking a relaxing experience in close contact with nature.

In partnership with Trading Estate Service Srl