The season has officially begun at Castello di Gargonza: temperatures are rising, and the spring climate has brought new inspiration. From a culinary perspective, this is the perfect moment to dive into the unique gastronomic experience offered by the La Torre di Gargonza restaurant. Nestled in the heart of the medieval village, this restaurant offers a true journey into the authentic flavors of Tuscan tradition, where high-quality ingredients and time-honored recipes come together to create extraordinary dishes.

Every dish prepared by our chefs tells a story of territory, passion, and quality. From handmade fresh pasta, prepared daily, to locally sourced grilled meats and special options for those with dietary needs, everything is crafted to offer an experience that goes beyond simple tasting. And of course, the wine list has been carefully curated to perfectly complement each dish, featuring a selection of the finest Tuscan wines.

Our menu, in addition to traditional dishes, includes a range of recipes designed to encapsulate the most characteristic aromas and flavors of the region.

Let’s take a closer look at one of our specialties: blueberry tagliolini on blue cheese fondue with hazelnut crumble.

The recipe

Our chefs have shared the process behind this dish, which boasts a rich yet refined flavor. While the preparation is simple, it highlights the purity and quality of the ingredients.

The tagliolini
First and foremost, the pasta must be made. At Castello di Gargonza, we specialize in handmade fresh pasta, which is carefully prepared to achieve the perfect consistency. In fact, we even offer dedicated pasta-making workshops.

Once cooked, the tagliolini are drained while still very al dente, preserving their elasticity and ability to absorb flavors.

The blueberry juice
To give the tagliolini their characteristic purple color and intense flavor, they are sautéed in blueberry juice. We use blueberries sourced from Abetone, in the Tuscan Apennines, where wild berries grow in an unspoiled environment, producing an unmistakable aroma.

This step not only gives the dish a distinctive aesthetic appeal, but also adds a refreshing note and slight acidity, balancing the richness of the other ingredients.

The blue cheese fondue
A key component of the dish, this element provides creaminess and a deep, enveloping flavor. The cheeses used come from De’ Magi, a renowned affineur from Castiglion Fiorentino.

With expertise in selecting the finest dairies and perfecting the aging process, De’ Magi cheeses bring exceptional quality and a full-bodied milk flavor to the table. The fondue is prepared slowly, melting the cheese in a bain-marie with cream, achieving a silky, smooth texture that coats the tagliolini perfectly.

The hazelnut crumble
To finish the dish, we add a crunchy, aromatic touch. The hazelnuts are coarsely chopped and sprinkled over the tagliolini, introducing a light sweetness that perfectly balances the savory cheese.

The choice of Tuscan hazelnuts is deliberate, as they are famous for their intense flavor and crisp texture, adding an extra layer of complexity to the dish.

An unforgettable gastronomic experience

We’ve taken you on a journey through one of the highlights of our menu—a dish that embodies the essence of Tuscan cuisine and continues to delight everyone who tastes it. Prepared with seasonal ingredients and a deep respect for tradition, it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication.

This dish was created with the intention of highlighting high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, carefully selected to bring out the best flavors of the region.

• The gentle sweetness and slight acidity of the blueberry pair beautifully with the savory richness of the blue cheese, creating a harmonious balance between sweet and salty.
• The crunch of the hazelnut crumble completes the sensory experience, adding textural contrast that makes every bite even more intriguing.

In the picturesque setting of Castello di Gargonza, surrounded by ancient walls and the stunning Tuscan countryside, this dish finds its perfect home.

At La Torre di Gargonza, where a warm and inviting atmosphere blends with culinary tradition, you can enjoy an authentic gastronomic experience, deeply rooted in Tuscan culture.

If you love traditional Tuscan cuisine with a creative twist, the blueberry tagliolini on blue cheese fondue with hazelnut crumble is a must-try dish.

Come and enjoy it at Castello di Gargonza and be enchanted by a unique interpretation of tradition, where innovation and taste come together in an unmistakable culinary experience.