I have described Purple Fete’s services and houses, but who better to speak to the advantages of a Purple Fete Tuscan Villa experience than our guests. While I routinely visit the villas, and continually improve Purple Fete’s services, here is a sample of what is being said by the press and Purple Fete’s guests about their experiences, what they think about the residences, and how they feel about their expectations being met…or even exceeded. Sincerely,
James A. FantaciPurple Fete has been recognized by the press for the personal service, the quality of the villas, and the incorporation of wine appreciation into the Tuscan villa experience. James A. Fantaci, proprietor was recently interviewed by Al Bassano, the wine specialist for Bloomberg Radio, and by the luxury lifestyle magazine, the Robb Report as well as Hamptons Cottages & Gardens and Connecticut Cottages & Gardens. The following quote is an excerpt from the Robb Report article:
VILLAS AND VINTAGES
On a gray February afternoon, who has not fantasized about a siesta in the sun-drenched courtyard of a Tuscan villa, book-ended by ventures throughout the Italian countryside to savor the local cuisine and the bounteous liquid offerings from the vine? And who has not been deterred by the task of arranging it all?
To that end, Purple Fete, creates personalized villa vacations-especially for wine aficionados and those who wish to gain first hand knowledge of local vintages. Purple Fete offers wine appreciation services as well as luxury villas. Proprietor, James Fantaci, a wine consultant whose special interest is Tuscany, will arrange wine tastings and excursions to local wineries.
The company takes care of the many of the details that accompany a vacation rental, including stocking the kitchen with food, and engaging the services of a private chef. All villas are supplied with custom-made crystal stemware, and a mixed case of the area’s best reds and whites can be on hand at arrival time, for an immediate attitude adjustment.
-Karen Cakebread
Article in the Financial Times (ft.com) - February 2008
"Escape to Tuscany" - Article in Hamptons Cottages & Gardens Magazine featuring Purple Fete
(This is a PDF file and you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader. Click to download!)
GUEST TESTIMONIALS
James,
The description and photos (of Magnolia) were actually above my expectations.
Susan Pennington, the concierge, was very helpful, as was Federica, the Estate Manager.I even met the owner at the property and they invited me to their home in Fiesoli. They were very nice.
Everyone at the property was very hospitable. Between you and Susan, everything I needed was taken care of. I would use Purple Fete again, and I would recommend it to family & friends.
Ellis Landau
James
The description and photos almost did the villa justice. It was better than what we expected. It was charming, and in good condition. Susan Pennington was a great asset, and very helpful. We didn’t realize what to expect, and we were delighted with what she added-also the dinners were wonderful and the ladies were charming.
Phyllis Kiehl
Dear James,
We had a wonderful time at Bella Vista. It was a beautiful place and Giorgio was extremely helpful and really made the vacation memorable. We particularly enjoyed the dinner he prepared for our anniversary and the cooking class. He was very flexible as our plans changed due to weather etc.
The pictures of Bella Vista did not do it justice. It is an incredibly beautiful spot and home and far exceeded our expectations. The views, pool (which due to rain and cooler weather we did not use much), rooms, flowers and the fabulous rosemary hedge that scented the area and wafted into our bedroom to wake us in the morning was one of my favorite memories. I have a new gardening goal! The property was in perfect condition and very well maintained. We were all thrilled with the villa.
The recommendations in the information you provided was extremely helpful. I would be happy to recommend Purple Fete to anyone looking for a villa in Italy. If we return to Tuscany, and we are already talking about taking a place south of Sienna, we would definitely be calling you. Thank you for a wonderful week in Tuscany. Please forward our regards and thanks to Giorgio.
Warmest regards,
Barbara Schnepper
James
Giuncheto was everything that was promised. The villa of Giuncheto is beautiful; the rooms were very comfortable and Immaculate. At Casina Di Mello, the house and property were quite beautiful, and Angela and Giorgio are wonderful. They did everything possible to make our stay more comfortable and enjoyable.
The concierges at both properties were wonderful. Very accommodating and helpful. We especially appreciated talking to the concierges ahead of time. Great cooking, helpful, hospitable and gracious in every way. They all went way out of their way to make our stay very special (arranging babysitting and a visit to the veterinarian, driving to Siena to help us park!)
We would definitely do it again!
Amy Augustine
James,
The photos were helpful, but didn’t do justice to the villa and its surroundings! The property was delightful and exceeded our expectations.
Susan was a wealth of knowledge and extremely helpful in this regard. Susan arranged for Anita to cook for us. The first night was so enjoyable and well done that we cancelled our Poggio Antico Restr. and actually did 3 nights with Anita.
Overall, we had a fabulous and thoroughly enjoyable experience!! Susan is a qoldmine of information and help!
Keith Flaugh
James,
Rosa was great! Her cooking was wonderful. We really only used her for dinner, in which we just asked her to surprise us, and she did every time. She kept the house clean, and washed our laundry.
The staff were great with the kids...especially when you really need them, like when my 2 yr old son was accidentally hit in the head by a rock (from my 9 yr. old nephew) she got us to the hospital and got us the top care there! The highly regarded doctor who owns the villa and Rosa helped him, and got us the best care for our son. She was great to us... and very missed.
I wish I had sat around that lovely home a little more. I cannot say enough great things about Villa Giuncheto!!!
Mara Akil
Hi James,
Thanks for recommended that delightful villa. We had a wonderful time. The house and property were in excellent condition, and the caretakers were outstanding and better than we could have expected.
Best,
Sharon Stone
James
The description and photos (of Bellavista) were right on, however, they can't do justice to seeing it with your own eyes.
The caretaker, Federica, was very gracious and also a great cook. We used several of your recommendations, which were very helpful, and the wine tour at Cupano's was a special treat. Lionel is a really neat guy and makes some great wines.
Thanks again for your support throughout the trip. We look forward to using your services in the future.
Sincerely,
Terry & Lynn Fortino
Everything was wonderful. Terrubino was lots of fun with the couples. Elisa Cioni was a delightful young lady and we did call on her from time to time with questions-so very helpful. The young lady who is the maid/cook was delightful. She of course spoke no English, but I have a respectable grasp of Italian so we did just great.
As for Mello, well, what can I say? It was spectacular. It was glorious in every respect. I do not know the owners, but yet I know a lot about them just by looking around the house. That is a house that they love, use and enjoy for big-time entertaining. The way the house is outfitted with lovely sets of china, crystal, linens, flatware, cookware...that's my kinda house. And Giorgia and Angela were the two most delightful people I think I've ever met abroad. They are incredible. And in spite of their speaking no English, we had lots of conversations with them. They talked to us as though we understood every word. And, boy, is she some kind of chef. When I found out that she had worked at the Badia a Coltibuono cooking school, that explained a lot. I've been familiar with that for some time. The house was magnificent, but those two people made it the most special time we've ever experienced. It was everything we had anticipated and a lot more to go with it.
What a way to celebrate a 40th wedding anniversary. Eliza Nash was super nice as well. She called on Sunday to check in, and then on Wednesday; came by on Thursday evening to make sure we were okay with Giorgio's and Angela's statement of charges. She said we were the easiest guests, that we never called asking or demanding anything; that, indeed, she had to call us to check in. A nice compliment.
Mello was unbelieveable.
Irveta Shouse
James,
I just wanted to let you know that we had an absolutely wonderful stay at Giuncheto. It was all that we had hoped for and much more. It'a a very special place. Rosa is a real gem --an extremely gifted cook and an exceptional person. She can really work some magic in the kitchen, and we're glad we took advantage of it.
Susan was terrific in helping us in any way we requested. We also met up with Clare to see some villas for sale in the Chianti area. She's quite impressive -- knowledgeable, bright, and a real advocate for a prospective foreign buyer. By the way, the A/C worked great, and it was an absolute Godsend given the heat wave that hit Italy during our stay.
We all liked Giuncheto a great deal, and much prefer the openness of its location over the Chianti area. If you ever think the doctor would be interested in selling Giuncheto, we'd appreciate your letting us know. It's probably out of our price range, but we'd certainly like to seriously consider it should the doctor become interested in selling.
Many thanks for all of your help.
Rich Sgalardi
James
Can I tell you what a Fantastic time we had staying at Giunchetto! Between the villa itself, its beautiful location, Rosa and her wonderful cooking and Susan with her great hospitality it was Unbelievable and a memory for a lifetime.
Roland Emmanuel
James,
We had a spectacular time at the villa. I will highly recommend you and your company to anybody that asks and some who don't. The entire booking process was most helpful, courteous and professional. James, was extremely knowledgeable with each and every villa his company represents. A+
The description and photos of the property were accurately represented. However, the pictures and descriptions can't begin to express the energy and aura that surrounds this place, the entire being of this villa was fabulous or should I say unsurpassable. The restaurant recommendations were exquisite. James’ wine selection was some of the most outstanding wines I've tasted.
The concierge is a lady names Susan. She was always looking out for us and offering several suggestion with day tours and local fanfare. She was such a nice person we invited her for dinner several times and really enjoyed her company and quick wit. We were sad to say good-bye to her and the villa. We have promised ourselves, god willing, we will return in the next couple of years.
James, this was a trip of a life time, Thank You for all your help.
Joe Paneno
Hi James,
The laughs, wine drinking, site seeing, loving, acting out, eating, sun rises and sets, beautiful rolling Tuscan hillsides, rainbows, shopping, works of art, new friends, old friends -----all vivid memories of a wonderful 3 weeks at Villa Giuncheto. We ate every evening meal with Rosa. She is an amazing woman and loves living and working at Villa Giuncheto.
I think the photos on line do not really do Villa Giuncheto justice. It is far more beautiful and spectacular than what is represented on line. I am so happy we decided to book for 3 weeks. It would have been very difficult to sort with only a week of time at the Villa. I would recommend at least 2 weeks, if not more.
The wine and the wine cellar were great. We had more wine advocates the 3rd week but it was very convenient to have a variety of wines available to us. This is really added value for the guests staying at Giuncheto. Rosa truly loves Giuncheto and the people who come to experience Giuncheto cannot miss the care and investment she makes in her surroundings. She makes "take care" of all us seem simple and easy and effortless. She works hard and we really appreciated her fine cooking and masterful presentations. She received alot of rave reviews from me and all of my friends. She is the heart and soul (as I wrote in her journal) of Villa Giuncheto. She took the whole experience over the top for everyone of my friends. Everyone in Gallup knew we were going on this trip. I am hopeful that some other people will want to come to Giuncheto. I will sure be a huge advocate. If any of your future customers want to talk with someone who has experienced the Villa, I would be happy to be a reference. Additionally, Susan was most helpful in terms of figuring out pacing and time frames especially with the children. She is extremely effective in person----just a charming person. She also helped on several occasions with communication between Rosa and some of the guests.
Best,
Cheryl Beamer
James,
Bosco was great. The DVD and the website were very helpful in getting to preview the property but there was one "problem"- it was even better than we thought it would be. We are seasoned travelers and it's not often that when I travel my expectations are exceeded. But this time that happened. It was incredible- perfect for our situation. And to think you kept telling me Bosco was the place for us and I kept pushing back. My concern was Southern Tuscany Chianti but I was wrong and this was perfect from a location perspective. We couldn't say enough positives about the Villa or the experience overall.
The owner and his family were outstanding. They were a major part of the experience and added immensely to the time we had. Duccio, Daniela, Carlotta, Vittoria, Nonna and Adriano all did everything imaginable ton support us while we were there. To cite one small example of how accommodating they were- my wife had purchased 4 bottles of different Brunellos for a wine tasting so we could decide on the wine we wanted to have on the last night. Believe it or not, at 9:30 in the morning on our last day we decided to do the tasting. Duccio happened to be there keeping a fire going in the dining room and overheard our conversation. He immediately offered to host it, set up and arrange the tasting and explain a great deal about Brunellos as to what to look for. This was one of the highlights of the entire trip- to have a wine producer lead a tasting, host it at 9:30 AM and share his knowledge with us. There wasn't much they wouldn't have done for us. Words fail me in trying to describe their hospitality.
I would recommend you without reservation and would be happy to serve as a reference by either E-mail or telephone. In fact, you will likely hear from some members of our party about renting a Villa, perhaps even Bosco. I would definitely use Purple Fete again.
John Moyer
James,
First of all, let me just say that we loved our 3 weeks at Casina di Mello. It quickly became our "home" in Chianti, Tuscany and we truly lived the lifestyle suggested by the property. Angela and Giorgio quickly established themselves as controlling elements in the experience, and our contentment was maximized under their attentive care.
We spent half of our time on day trips, and the other half simply living at home. Almost literally, we would go out for a day, and then spend a day at home, and then out for a day, and back home for a day. In this way, all of our 8-person family were accommodated; those who wanted to "go forth and experience" and those who viewed the villa as a destination in its own right.
The booking process was extremely easy, convenient and helpful. Of course, I had the advantage of having your professionalism, credibility and integrity. Truthfully, I relied on your verbal representation (of Casina di Mello). The pictures available to me at the time did not do proper justice to the absolute beauty and luxury of the property. The condition of the house and property was SPECTACULAR. The stone house was spacious, with more living space than necessary for the 4 bedrooms, and a world class luxe interior design. The layout was particularly interesting, because the somewhat indirect routes to bedrooms gives the impression that the house is far more expansive than it really is. The stonework kept the house reasonably cool even in the heat of July. The outdoor eating area was both practical and romantic, and we ate ALL of our meals there. The pool was wonderful, and the 9' depth of the deep end was particularly interesting in this age of universal litigation-adverse 2'-4' resort pools; we spent many, many days lounging poolside appreciating the well-landscaped grounds, the views of the surrounding valley, and our Italian villa lifestyle.
In the words of my teenage daughter, Oh M'God! Giorgio and Angela are, as a team, a gift from the gods. Their maintenance of the house and property kept it in pristine condition. Their attention...their DOTING on us made us question the sanity of ever leaving the house. Their meal service talents are extraordinarily sublime. Angela is a professional and passionate chef whose kitchen efforts consistently resulted in works of art. So good are her talents that we realized that a gourmet multi-course (usually appetizer, primi, secondi, salad, dolci, coffee) Italian meal for 8 could not possibly be more satisfactorily experienced in a restaurant...nor with a better value...so over the 3 weeks we let Angela plan many meals for us. Giorgio and Angela were KEY elements of our contentment and satisfaction with Casina di Mello...not to mention primary motivators for our long walks to ensure that we continued to fit in our clothing.
Ever mindful that the bulk of our travel experience was based in and on our rental of Casina di Mello, I reiterate that our 3 weeks were an over-the-top wonderful experience. I would use your services again in an instant, and would recommend Purple Fete heartily to anyone considering Tuscany as a destination. On a personal level, I want to thank you for making our vacation a sublime and wonderful experience for all of us. Your attention to the needs and desires of your customer was critical to my contentment, both anticipated and realized. I could not possibly be more pleased with our Italian experience, and particularly our enjoyment of our villa lifestyle, and for that I thank you profoundly.
Mark Pullman
James,
Just wanted to let you know that we had a fantastic time at Pipistrelli. It couldn’t have been better. We were very impressed and can't wait to book another Purple Fete villa (or Pipistrelli again).
The property was a million times nicer in person. It exceeded my expectations, it could not have been more perfect in any way.
Susan Pennington was such a wonderful and charming woman. Our trip wouldn’t have been the same without her.
Thanks.
Adina Eigen
James,
I've been meaning to send you an email to tell you how fantastic the villa was and what a great time we had. What can you say about Giorgio and Angela. They were truly a dream come true. I think you make a mistake in not saying more about the services that they provide. Angela is an amazing cook (Fresh pasta, foccacia, pasta, steak on the outdoor fireplace, home made polenta with Bolognese sauce, fresh fried zucchini flowers, amazing salads, great frittatas in the morning, etc., etc. And the way they serve dinner, wines and after dinner drinks is great) Eliza was very helpful as well.
The house was extraordinary.
Bob Gold
James,
We were very pleased with the house and property. It met our expectations and then some.
The owner and his family were first class, amazingly kind and helpful.
Thanks again.
Aulaire Single
Hi James,
We are back from Italy and had a wonderful time. Bellavista was superb! The villa is absolutely beautiful we could not have asked for anything more. The staff was wonderful and cooked us the most delicious meals. I will refer you and this villa with confidence!
Thanks for everything. We are all planning our next trip so you may be hearing from us again in the very near future!
Sincerely,
Elissa Rickmers
The trip was wonderful. The house is fabulous --- comfortable, large, charming, very liveable, views were stunning, the pool lovely. We very much enjoyed the meals cooked by (and lessons by) Serena, the cooking school teacher, really the best food we had…..thanks for your help --the house was really special, and fit our needs perfectly.
-- Stephen Berzon
We found the process (booking process) convenient and helpful. Although it was the first time working with you, we found you professional and reassuring.
The photos were accurate and upon arriving at the house, our expectations were more than met. The house is amazing and truly beautiful-a touch of paradise.
Rosa was such a wonderful cook that we ate at home most evenings-as our children said, “why go out when we have Rosa at home.” Rosa was a joy!!! She was most helpful to everyone. She made our stay a real vacation for all. Elena was a delight….We did enjoy your suggestions for trips, restaurants, and wines.
--Mr. & Mrs. Robert Tardio
James,
The house and property were excellent. It exceeded my expectations. The photo's of the property gave an idea but did not do the actual property justice, it was more beautiful and special…..the lists (you provided) were very helpful and it was something that referred to on a daily basis….. Fantastic wines! Excellent selections.
Barbara (owner's daughter/caretaker) did such an outstanding job aiding us for anything and everything, I can't imagine the stay without her assistance. She went above and beyond the call of duty.
I would highly recommend Purple Fete and when I return to Europe I can only hope you have the property that suits our trip!
--Charles Bertucio
James,
The property was truly magnificent! There was plenty of room for everyone to do what they wanted when they wanted.
Rosa and Calla were efficient and helpful. Everyone felt very comfortable there. At your suggestion, we did have Rosa prepare several meals, all of which were scrumptious.
I would say, without reservation, that everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. We look forward to a return trip.
With regards,
--Denise Ellwood
Hi James,
Thank you for everything-we had the best time.
Both Villas were wonderful and each had its own personality and charm.
Giuncheto, as I know I don't need to tell you, is a magnificent property and the up to date renovations at Terrubino made it very easy to enjoy. Merita prepared spectacular meals and was so sweet and charming, Rosa was warm and clearly seemed sad to see us go, and Mariaclaudia did a terrific job with all the tour plans.
My family loved being in Tuscany and all that Italy had to offer-the food, country side, small hill towns, museums and just hanging around looking at the gorgeous country side.
The entire trip was an A+ for us
Lisa & Mitchell Newmark
James,
We had a fabulous time! The villa was lovely-I just got some of my pictures
back.
Rosa was a delicious cook and very nice to deal with and your wine selection was wonderful too.
Thanks! It was a very memorable vacation and we will highly recommend your services.
Nina
James,
I greatly appreciated that you always followed up promptly with me and even called the villa while we were there to make sure all was well. You responded quickly to my inquiry, were very prompt with your replies to my questions and were very helpful to me in making a final decision. I most appreciated that you always followed up with me in a timely manner throughout the process. And I must say, it was nice that I dealt exclusively with you and was not passed on to anyone else. I felt well cared for.
The house and grounds were actually much more beautiful than the pictures conveyed. I was a little concerned that the property would not be what I envisioned but I must say it greatly exceeded my expectations and was exactly what I hoped it would be...very memorable and comfortable.
Bartek and Mikah were exceptional. They really made each member of our party feel important and special. They were entertaining, warm and extremely helpful. The meals were outstanding and a special dinner and cake were prepared for my parents' anniversary on our last evening. The housekeeping was excellent and very respectful. We were most impressed with their ability to be both professional and friendly. They took great care of us.
The villa was exceptional. We enjoyed absolutely everything. You helped me pick the perfect property for my parents' 50th wedding anniversary. Thank you for all your help and reassurance along the way. I will be sure to tell anyone interested in traveling to Tuscany that Purple Fete is the way to go.
Mary Lemanski
James,
The reality (of the property) exceeded the expectations developed from the photos and text-fantastic! (The caretakers of Boscarello) were most gracious, a vital part of the experience, unmatched in our travels. I will recommend Purple Fete whenever I think you can help a friend or acquaintance.
Carter Schelling
James,
Thank you. The villa was very attractive, new, and in an idyllic setting, and your recommendations were very helpful. We especially liked the seafood place--Da Antonio. [Your input] sets your service part from any other I have used. The owner and the caretaker, Antoinette, were great.
You're the most conscientious rental agents I've ever dealt with! You've been a pleasure to deal with.
Larry Luing
James,
Now that we have returned home and sadly our vacation is over, I just wanted to tell you how fantastic everything was and thank you. It is very rare that something that you find on the internet is even nicer then what is advertised. The house was gorgeous, the pool was wonderful, and the views beyond description. Merita was a great house keeper, cook and very nice person. The information you provided was very helpful. It was really a vacation of a lifetime. Thank you so very much. I have recommended you to everyone I know and hopefully, we will be back again.
Sharon and Bill Levin and family
companies, which includes Bare Fete, a provider of luxury
Mega-Yacht Cruises.
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