VIA TORNABUONI. This is one of the most upscale wine bars in Florence, featuring local and regional wines from the Antinori wine makers of Florence, who have many vineyards throughout Tuscany. The atmosphere is elegant, and the food is exceptional. Snuggle up to the bar, where you'll receive outstanding and competent service with great explanations of wines, or dine at a table next to the bar or in the cozy, intimate upper area. Take your time with the wine menu, which is several pages long, and don't be afraid to ask questions about a particular wine.

Le Volpi e l'Uva is a wine bar that offers over 100 wines for tasting or purchasing. For L3-10,000, you can sample wine from their extensive collection, which features French and Italian labels. On occasion, Le Volpi e l'Uva will sponsor guided tastings, featuring Californian, Chilean, and New Zealand wines. Of course, they also offer a conglomeration of cheeses that you can sample along with your wine. Favorites include the Brie and robiole.