Vino Paradiso: Join James Suckling and Sting in Tuscany
A VIP Wine Event in Florence
"Over the course of four incredible days, attendees will experience grand tastings, seminars, special dinners and entertainment.
All aspects of the program have been designed with the highest level of excellence in mind, from the selection of wines to the locations."
--James Suckling, Divino Tuscany host and former senior editor and European Bureau Chief of Wine Spectator and one of the world's most influential wine critics.
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Privileged and unprecedented access to Tuscany's best wineries and winemakers showcasing premium wines in one of the most dramatic vinicultural regions of the world. |
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Gala dinner at the opulent Palazzo Corsini on the banks of the Arno.
Some of Italy's most famous families have called this place home while its most famous artists have adorned the walls and ceilings of this Baroque style masterpiece with works of breathtaking beauty. |
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Tutored tastings featuring topics on Tuscan wine making, led by James Suckling and complemented by his guest panelists and experts. |
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Dine in the private Palazzi of the most well-known Tuscan wine families and estates. |
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Relaxed country lunch featuring a traditional Tuscan pig roast courtesy of Sting and Trudie Styler at their private villa, Il Palagio. |
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Price: From 2990 Euro per person, based on double occupancy
Price Details: A $25 per person nonrefundable booking fee is charged at time of reservation.
Inclusions: Includes 4 nights, all wine-tastings, dinners, events and performances included in itinerary including shuttle service to venues located outside of Florence.
Exclusions: Fare does not include international air, transfers to/from airport, meals and optional activities not stated in itinerary, transportation to venues within Florence or VAT tax added to final bill.
Disclaimer: Properties, events and special appearances by celebrity hosts are subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control. We strongly recommend purchasing trip interruption and cancellation insurance to protect your investment.
Vino Paradiso: Join James Suckling and Sting in Tuscany: Accommodations
St. Regis Grand
Since the 18th century, travelers have considered the spectacular Grand Hotel a preferred stop in central Florence. With so many incredible sights nearby, it offers an incomparable introduction to the origins of the Renaissance.
The St. Regis Florence offers 19 exquisite suites enriched with refined furniture and antique artworks, together with 81 elegant guestrooms decorated with the prestigious Medici, Fiorentino and Renaissance styles.
4190 Euro per person
Villa Cora Grand Hotel
*This is the event's host property
This five-star mansion goes back to the nineteenth century. Located in a park amid planetree woods and the Viale dei Colli gardens, few steps away from Boboli and the Oltrarno, this “Grande Dame” of the hills south of Florence, with its 46 rooms and suites, heated swimming pool in the park, gastronomic restaurant and wellness area, is a real sophisticated City Resort.
3990 Euro per person
The Westin Excelsior
All of the 171 guest rooms at The Westin Excelsior, Florence are elegantly decorated, offering a taste of Florentine tradition.
Modern conveniences like High Speed Internet Access and Wireless Internet access in all public areas is standard. Relax with our signature Heavenly Bed® and enjoy lovely Arno river or city views from your guest room.
3790 Euro per person
Hotel Il Salviatino
This 15th-century villa high in the hills over Florence has a museum’s stash of 19th-century frescoes, antique bath tubs and valuable artworks. Beautiful boudoirs are graced with oak floors, silver candelabra and fresh orchids, and there are two restaurants,
a bar and a spa to explore.
Each of the rooms and suites are individually decorated with an elegant blend of local artisanship and the latest technologies. Handmade authentic Tuscan linen, lovingly selected artwork and the finest leathers all add to make each one of these suites and rooms a truly unique experience.
3590 Euro per person
Lungarno Suites
Lavish and generous suites provide complete independence for a family or a longer stay in the heart of Florence.
The 44 beautifully spaced and charming studios and suites offer spectacular views over the Arno.
Refined details of Florentine craftsmanship, a fully equipped kitchenette, the latest technology and gentle dividing sliding doors that provide complete privacy, will guarantee a most relaxing and comfortable stay.
Amenities include free Wi-Fi and the exclusive bath amenity line Tuscan Soul by Salvatore Ferragamo.
3190 Euro per person
Continentale Hotel
The Hotel Continentale is the place to see and be seen, a catwalk for fashion and desire in the heart of Florence.
The elegant and inviting white colors chosen by Florentine architect Michele Bönan evoke harmony, simplicity, and fantasy.
Discover refined design and attention to detail throughout this 4 stars hotel in Florence, from handmade leather trunks used as a desk to witty clocks used as a side table.
The magnificent Sky Lounge Bar is located on the top floor of the medieval Consorti tower and is the ultimate location to meet for a cocktail or a yoga class surrounded by the most beautiful views of Florence.
2990 Euro per person
Please contact us for additional options in accommodation.
Vino Paradiso: Join James Suckling and Sting in Tuscany: Itinerary

Day 1: Thursday, May 17, 2012
Arrive in Tuscany and check into 5-star hotel
7:30 p.m. Welcome House Party
Wines, Cigars and Celebrities
Grand Hotel Villa Cora
Kick off the weekend with a festive welcome dinner, featuring new vintage wines and live music from Havana’s hottest pianist, Ernán López Nussa performing with his trio.
The Italian premiere screening of James Suckling’s and James Orr’s film Heart and Soul of Cuba, recently shown to rave reviews at the International Latin America Film Festival and the Sonoma Film Festival, follows.
Cap the evening with a grappa tasting paired with Cuban cigars
Day 2: Friday, May 18, 2012
Grand tastings with the 50 top wineries in Tuscany
Tasting seminars with James Suckling
Gala dinner at the private and exclusive Palazzo Corsini
Attire: daytime - smart casual; evening - smart dinner attire (suits for men, dresses for ladies) but not black tie
Day 3: Saturday, May 19, 2012
Grand tastings with the 50 top wineries in Tuscany
Tasting seminars with James Suckling
Private dinners at the Palazzi of well-known wine estates including Antinori, Frescobaldi, Mazzei, Ferragamo, Corsini, and Banfi
Attire: daytime - smart casual; dinner - smart casual unless the host specifies otherwise
Day 4: Sunday, May 20, 2012
Traditional Tuscan pig roast BBQ hosted by Sting and Trudie Styler
Attire: casual
Day 5: Sunday, May 21, 2012
International departures
Vino Paradiso: Join James Suckling and Sting in Tuscany: FAQs
Q Is this an escorted tour?
A No. This tour offers an exlusive and customized itinerary - but is customized on your own. Renowned Wine Critic James Suckling will host the wine-tastings; and individual wine makers will host dinners at their private estates.
Q Is shuttle service available?
A Shuttle service will be offered - and coordinated - to all venues located outside of Florence. Transporation within Florence is not included.
Q Will Sting be at the Sunday pig roast?
A Yes, both Sting and his wife, Trudie Styler, will mingle with guests throughout the afternoon, at the barbeque, held at their private villa, Il Palagio.
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