16/06/2026
We went to Italy for a party.
Not just any party, but a celebration for a very dear friend in the heart of Tuscany.
The setting was Castellina in Chianti, a beautiful medieval hilltop village surrounded by vineyards and rolling countryside. For us, it was a pretty special place to visit because it’s the home of Sangiovese — and if you know anything about our winery, you’ll know that’s RJ’s favourite grape variety.
The party itself was held at the stunning Villa Siepi, where a fabulous group of people gathered to celebrate Nicole. It was one of those picture-perfect Tuscan days that almost doesn’t seem real when you look back at the photos.
A long lunch in the countryside, tables laden with wine, beautiful food, music drifting through the garden, stories shared between old friends and new, and plenty of laughter. Nicole decided a band might be a good idea — and thankfully (although she did have her doubts as they serenaded her!) she was right.
A special shout out to her sister Monique, who pulled so much of it together and proved herself to be an exceptional party planner.
Mostly though, I’m grateful. Grateful to have been there, grateful for the people, and grateful for the memories.
A beautiful day in Tuscany. Great friends. Great food. Great wine.
And a reminder that sometimes the best reason to travel is simply to celebrate the people you love.
Still pinching myself when I look back at these photographs.
Thanks for having us, Nicole. What a party.
