Contemporary architecture generally seeks to dissociate itself from the world of emotions in order to create a rational relationship between building and man, devoid of all emotion. In some places, though, the synergy between architecture and its surroundings has been recreated. This is the case at two unique Tuscan wineries where indigenous style and age-old traditions have embraced modern designs and technologies.

Departing from and returning to your hotel in Florence, first stop is La Rocca di Frassinello winery where a joint venture between Italian and French wine producers hired world-famous superstar architect Renzo Piano to design their new winemaking facility and cellars. The result is breathtaking, combining traditional forms of Tuscan architecture with an industrial theme that features steel-mesh shades, a terracotta piazza and a tall spire concealing heliostats that reflect daylight into the interior. The underground cellar resembles an amphitheater lined with 2,500 barrels of wine; here a guided tasting of the estate's finest vintages will be held.

The park of the Villa Guerrazzi in Cecina is the leafy setting for an al fresco lunch at the Osteria Enoteca la Cinquantina. Traditional Tuscan dishes using local fish and seafood are accompanied by an exclusive selection of wines. After lunch, enjoy a short walk on the beach.

Petra in Suvereto is a state-of-the-art winery designed by renowned Italian architect Mario Botta in 2000. An oblique, cylindrical structure of golden-hued stone divided in two by a steeply rising exterior staircase, this magnificent building is as bold as the Super-Tuscans you will sample in the guided wine tasting.