The Revival of Italy’s Wine Windows

Businesses in Italy are bringing back the tradition of selling wine and other drinks through tiny wall hatches known as wine windows. This charming practice dates back to the 1600s during a time when the nation faced a pandemic.

Wine Windows in Tuscany

In the region of Tuscany, wineries, gelaterias, and bars have cleverly implemented these wine windows, or buchette del vino, to serve drinks while maintaining safe physical distancing. As the region emerges from lockdown, these windows have started providing contactless experiences for wine, Aperol Spritzes, gelato, and even coffee—perfect for customers looking for a delightful pick-me-up.

It’s cocktail hour at this wine window in Florence ©Buchette del Vino

Currently, there are about 150 wine windows in Tuscany, according to Buchette del Vino, a non-profit cultural organization founded in 2015 by three friends—Matteo Faglia, Diletta Corsini, and Mary Christine Forrest. Their mission is to promote and preserve these unique architectural features. Notably, over 100 of these distinctive windows can be spotted in Florence’s historical center.

Detail of an old stone wall with a wine window in Florence ©Simona Sirio/Getty Images/iStockphoto

The wine windows first originated in the 17th century, when innovative wine merchants creatively carved openings into their walls. This was their solution for continuing to serve drinks to the public during the Italian Plague of 1629–1631. These merchants recognized the risk of contagion, according to Buchette del Vino.

They would pass a flask of wine through the window rather than receiving payments directly. Instead, a metal pallet was presented to clients, who would place their coins on it, and then the seller would disinfect the coins with vinegar before collecting them, thereby prioritizing safety.

Most wine windows can be found in Florence’s historic center ©Getty Images/iStockphoto

Over time, as the demand for these windows faded, many were boarded up. Consequently, they have often been overlooked by both tourists and locals alike. However, today, as Italy faces new pandemic-related challenges, several businesses in Florence, including Osteria delle Brache and Babae, have reopened their windows to once again serve drinks. The owners of Vivoli ice cream parlor are also providing coffee and gelato to passersby.