On our way to Florence through the rolling hills of Tuscany, we stopped at an olive pressing station where they make a variety of.. of course.. molto bene (very fine) olive oils. However, it is also one many places where you can buy wine by the the liter from a pump just like gas - bring in your container and "fill'er up"! It was surprisingly good. The wine is transported in tanker trucks just like gas.

On the spur of the moment, we decided to pull off the road as we passed a small vineyard where grapes were being harvested (probably by a local family and friends, but described as "peasants" by our wonderful guide Clara). Good-naturedly, and with enthusiasm, they joined us for a group photo and gave us bunches of grapes to go. We were impressed with their friendliness. Definitely one of the highlights of our day.