Review: Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina

So, can you tell us a little about this place?
Located directly opposite the vast, grandiose 15th-century Pitti Palace, this small enoteca, or wine bar, has a loyal local following. Inside, a marble-topped bar counter takes center stage in a room where wall-to-wall shelves are stacked high with wine. Three Enomatic machines (for preserving fine wines once they're opened) behind the bar hint at the serious credentials of this place.

Excellent. So who’s there?
Although there's a strong local fan base here, the location—on one of Florence’s more touristy squares—means that there are a fair number of walk-in customers, too. Some come here for a quick glass of something boozy; others, well aware of the treasures buried in the wine list, are prepared to settle in for the evening.

Got it. And how are the drinks?
This is a serious wine bar with a vast, carefully curated list that's mostly centered around red wines from Tuscany and Piemonte; there are many bottles dating from the 1960s and ‘70s—and even the ‘50s—which you won't find in any other Florentine bar. The list of wines by the glass rotates—there are usually around 20, all priced between €6.50 to €11 (about $7 to $12.50)—and you'll also see a decent selection of affordably priced bottles under €35 (about $40). Something to celebrate? Order a bottle of Champagne or the cheaper Franciacorta, a sparkling wine from Lombardy made using the same methode Champenoise. If you want to explore a few, opt for one of the three-glass wine flights, guided by one of the expert owners; say, Forty Years of Chianti (€20, or about $23 per person) or the more wide-ranging Discover Italy (€25, about $28).

Wow—sounds like there's a lot to try. Worth ordering something to eat, too?
The food is designed to complement the wines, from apps (anchovy fillets with smoked butter, prosciutto crudo with truffled gorgonzola, platters of top-notch cheeses and cured meats) to seasonal pasta and rice dishes (spaghetti with wild boar sauce, nettle-and-taleggio risotto, tortelli stuffed with squash and ricotta).

Yum. Did the staff do you right?
Owners Edoardo, Manuele, and Zeno, all qualified sommeliers, are well-equipped to guide guests through the vast wine list. They're passionate about wine, and it shows.

Perfect. Wrap it up: what are we coming here for?
This is just the place to bring your serious wine-buff friends if you're looking to impress them. There are only six tables inside—although in summer, the terrace doubles that capacity—and most are for just two, so it’s best for an intimate evening.