Profile information
Host rating
100 %
Last replied
19 Apr 2024
Reply rate
94.3 %
Usually responds within 4 days
Feedback
20
Email verified
Host offers payment
Badges (2)
Details
Description
I oversee a 20-hectare organic and biodynamic winery nestled in the beautiful hills of Chianti Classico, just 15 km south of Florence. My aim is sustainable farming, cultivating grapes and crafting wine that encapsulates the essence of our land. I reside alongside Greta, my affable schnauzer, on one of the two vineyards I own and manage.
My sons frequent the property, contributing to the operation. Our spacious abode accommodates guests in a separate but adjoining house equipped with its own kitchen and bathroom.
Our collective objective is to function as a cohesive unit, championing clean agriculture to honor the authentic character of our terroir. Our winemaking process is based on indigenous yeast and the natural integrity of the grapes. Tending to the garden and vegetable patch is essential.
Throughout the seasons, our guests may assist with household repairs, work in the vegetable garden, partake in tastings, and assist with ongoing housekeeping tasks. Meal arrangements vary based on work commitments, group size, and personal preferences. It's important to note that our diet primarily revolves around flour-based dishes. I bake fresh bread twice a week, and pasta features prominently in our meals. Unfortunately, accommodating gluten-free diets poses significant challenges due to potential contamination, making it impractical to host individuals sensitive to gluten.Types of help and learning opportunities
GardeningDIY and building projectsAnimal CareHelp around the houseGeneral MaintenanceHelp with Computers/ InternetCultural exchange and learning opportunities
I'm the proud owner of a biodynamic farm that offers guests an immersive experience. From learning about farming and gardening to pitching in with house repairs and maintenance, there's always something new to discover. But that's just the beginning—we also dive into the art of baking bread, creating fresh pasta, and exploring the fascinating world of fermenting kefir, kombucha, and vegetables.
My background? I grew up in North Africa, where my family tended vineyards in Tunisia and olive trees in Libya. After studying Economics in Florence, I went to Berklee College of Music in Boston where I pursued a degree in musical composition at Berklee College of Music. For ten years, I lived in NYC, playing music and selling wine part-time.
In 1999, I came back to Tuscany, where I started making wine and selling it worldwide. I speak Italian, French, English, and understand Spanish pretty well. I'm excited to share all these experiences with guests on the farm!Host offers payment in line with the minimum wage
This host offers accommodation and payment.
Host has indicated that they will pay at least the minimum hourly wage of their country for each hour worked and that accommodation will also be provided. They are asking for help with a business or business activity. Contact the host directly via the site messenger for more information and details about the wage provided. Any arrangements should be agreed in advance with your host.
Help
Currently, we're seeking assistance primarily with housekeeping tasks (cleaning, dusting, ironing, etc.), organizing group tastings (setting tables, assisting with service, etc.), and tending to our garden and vegetable patch. We value individuals with some prior experience, a willingness to learn, and a positive, uplifting spirit.
Moreover, proficiency in Instagram, social media, and good communication skills are highly appreciated and warmly welcomed.Languages spoken
English: Fluent
French: Fluent
Italian: Fluent
Spanish: IntermediateAccommodation
Residing nearby the owner or within the same house is contingent on the number of guests and ongoing tasks, often including shared meals. Each guest enjoys a private room and access to a bathroom. Amenities like burners, an oven, and a refrigerator are at their disposal.
It's important to mention that our meals are centered around flour-based dishes. I bake fresh bread twice weekly, and pasta frequently graces our table. From my experience, accommodating gluten-free diets poses significant challenges due to potential contamination. As such, we regretfully cannot host individuals sensitive to gluten.What else ...
Tuscany unfolds countless treasures, from stunning landscapes to captivating cultural sites. Florence, an art-filled city, sits just 40 minutes away from the farm by bus. Siena awaits 50 minutes away, and Lucca beckons within an hour's journey. While having your transportation is recommended for flexibility, exploring by bus is a feasible option.
A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
Can host digital nomads
Internet connection is via radio bridge. It is good and steady but not as fast as an optical connection.
Space for parking camper vans
This host can provide space for campervans.
Can possibly accept pets
No
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
25 hours a week
Feedback (10)
Silvio is a very nice man who has been through a lot in his life and can give out one piece of advice after another. He is friendly, likes his peace of mind,… read more
He is a very welcoming and warm hearted man, a great host. Though it was a busy time for him, Silvio always found time to enjoy the evening hours with his guests, sharing dinner and having great conversations on his teracce. I was able to learn a lot about culture in Tuscany,… read more
He is a wonderful host and a beautiful human- very kind, generous, inclusive, charismatic, witty and jovial - always greets you with a warm smile!
I highly recommend Silvio as a host because of his… read more
Feedback
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Accuracy of profile:
(5.0)
Cultural exchange:
(5.0)
Communication:
(4.9)
Silvio is a very nice man who has been through a lot in his life and can give out one piece of advice after another. He is friendly, likes his peace of mind,… read more
He is a very welcoming and warm hearted man, a great host. Though it was a busy time for him, Silvio always found time to enjoy the evening hours with his guests, sharing dinner and having great conversations on his teracce. I was able to learn a lot about culture in Tuscany,… read more
He is a wonderful host and a beautiful human- very kind, generous, inclusive, charismatic, witty and jovial - always greets you with a warm smile!
I highly recommend Silvio as a host because of his… read more
She has proved to be a very pleasant person, a quick learner and a very efficient and precise worker when given indications on what to do and how to do it. She is Independent but she quickly blended in and enjoyed the presence of other people from different countries. I would certainly… read more
Once instructed he can be very efficient and he is certainly not afraid of work. At times maybe a little bit absent minded but immediately ready to make up for what was left behind. He is also a sensitive person who respects the… read more
Willing to help in… read more
I was gone for 2 days and she was left by herself taking care of… read more
My main tasks were basic daily house chores, keeping the house in order, helping with wine degustations, cooking, etc.… read more
She quickly blended in, founding her own space with independence.
Her help around the house was very valuable as well as in the chicken shed and let’s not forget some very interesting… read more
I personally helped around the house, improving the chicken shed and some other general tasks. The house where volunteers stay… read more