Calici di Stelle

Calici di Stelle in Vinci

Calici di Stelle is the wine event that brings the historic center of Vinci—nestled in the heart of Tuscany, near Florence—to life every August 10th for the Night of San Lorenzo. The festival is part of a major national program promoted by the Movimento Turismo del Vino and the Città del Vino association; in Vinci, it takes on the intimate and evocative charm of the village that gave birth to Leonardo da Vinci.

A wandering tasting under the stars

Starting at 7:00 PM, the streets and squares of the historic center fill with tasting stalls for a wandering tasting dedicated to the best local labels. The ideal route begins with fresh, fragrant IGT Toscana white wines at the Piazza dei Conti Guidi tasting point, then continues toward younger reds and more structured Chianti DOCG wines, including "Montalbano" and "Riserva" varieties, served at stations set up around the castle. Sparkling wines are also available, perfect for a summer evening toast.

Wine, music, and a starry sky

The atmosphere is that of a typical midsummer Tuscan night: street food for every taste accompanies the wine, while live concerts provide the soundtrack for the evening. The most magical moment is the extraordinary free opening of the Castello dei Conti Guidi: from its panoramic terrace, beneath the tower, you can gaze up at the Perseid meteor shower, the famous shooting stars of San Lorenzo. Stargazing is curated in collaboration with the Osservatorio Beppe Forti of Montelupo Fiorentino.

The tasting glass

To participate in the wandering tasting, you purchase the official glass, provided with a handcrafted holder and a booklet of coupons to use at the various tasting points. Access to the village and the event is free, as is the chance to stroll through the illuminated streets, enjoy the music, and climb up to the castle.

Vinci, Leonardo's village

Perched on the hills of Montalbano, the town of Vinci is one of the most beloved destinations in the Tuscany region. Beyond the charm of its medieval historic center, it houses the Museo Leonardiano and keeps the connection with its most illustrious citizen alive. Calici di Stelle is part of the town's rich summer calendar, titled "L'estate dell'Ingegno" (The Summer of Genius), which brings months of cultural, gastronomic, and musical events to the village and its surrounding areas.