Butcher and Culinary Apprenticeships - Tuscany

Apprentice at Spannocchia

Butcher Apprenticeship | Culinary Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship Overview

We believe that the artisanal traditions of Tuscany can be preserved by providing learning opportunities for the next generation. Spannocchia offers two unique, hands-on apprentice programs for people interested in learning the art of Italian salumi production or enhancing their culinary skills in a farm-to-table Tuscan restaurant. Our knowledgeable and experienced staff share their expertise and provide apprentices with an informal, intensive training. These immersive programs give participants practical experience and allow them to explore an unparalleled career opportunity in a gorgeous and historic setting.

Diagram of where meat comes from on a pig

Butcher Apprenticeship

Spannocchia produces around 15 different types of salumi (cured meats) from the Cinta Senese pigs raised on our property. Named for their distinct white belted band (cintura), they are a rare heritage breed that was at risk of extinction. These animals are all raised in an extensive, semi-brado (semi-wild) state, with access to forage and pasture year round. The unique qualities of the Cinta Senese breed pigs raised in a free-range system guarantee the quality of our products, which our norcino (butcher) produces on-site according to traditional techniques and recipes, and without the use of preservatives like nitrates or nitrites. Many of the seasonings and spices used in our salumi production are also harvested on the property, like the wild fennel, bay leaf, and juniper berries.

Our apprentices go through butcher training by working alongside our on-site butcher to learn all aspects of creating our award-winning artisanal salumi. Butcher apprentices will be exposed to all phases of production, from slaughter to the curing process to assisting at markets. Apprentices can expect to work approximately 45 hours per week, with free time to explore other areas of personal interest as well as the Tuscan countryside.

While butchering can be physically challenging work, it is also extremely rewarding. Apprentices learn new skills and interact closely with the Italian workers, who can often provide a wealth of knowledge about Tuscan farming techniques and cultural traditions.

Butcher Apprenticeship Dates & Application Deadlines

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect countries around the globe, we have regrettably decided not to hold our Apprenticeship Programs in 2021.

We’re saddened to not be able to welcome these special members of the Spannocchia community this year, but we recognize the health and safety of our farm staff and residents, as well as our potential interns, needs to be our priority.

Stay tuned for more details about our 2022 Apprenticeships by joining our mailing list:

“I absolutely loved my days working with Riccio in the transformation room. I gained a comprehensive knowledge of both the science and the art of traditional Tuscan salumi. Riccio shared his deep appreciation and understanding of the entire life cycle of the cinta senesi. It was powerful to work with a butcher who so profoundly respects the life and sacrifice of these animals. The days could be long and the work hard, but we grew close and shared unforgettable moments. Few educational experiences have so clearly altered the course of my life. I am forever grateful.”
– Vincent Feucht, Former Apprentice

Chef Apprentice harvested fresh organic red tomatoes and purple egglants

Culinary Apprenticeship

Chef Apprentice and Chef preparing a meal in the kitchen

During the summer months, Spannocchia’s orto (vegetable garden) offers a vast variety of fresh, organic fruits and vegetables—creating an incredible cooking experience for culinary professionals interested in providing farm-to-table meals and service. Pietrina, our head chef, has decades of experience managing a kitchen and utilizing native Tuscan ingredients in traditional and modern dishes. The focus of meals at Spannocchia is local and fresh with the evening menu often highlighting products harvested that day. Our Culinary Apprentice will have the opportunity to work alongside Pietrina learning the fundamentals of Tuscan cuisine in our family-style restaurant.

This apprenticeship is for chefs who are serious about improving their culinary skills and seeking an understanding of Italian cuisine at a deeper level. The program is also perfect for chefs trained to prepare different cuisine types and wishing to expand their skill set and learn how to properly prepare Italian cuisine. Applicants should have previous experience and training in a professional setting; however, this program is not for well-established chefs in leaderships positions. The ideal apprentice will have an interest in learning more about farm-to-table and Italian cuisine, a willingness to learn Italian, and a desire to become a part of a unique Italian/American community during their stay.

Culinary Apprentice Dates & Application Deadlines

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect countries around the globe, we have regrettably decided not to hold our Apprenticeship Programs in 2021.

Stay tuned for more details about our 2022 Apprenticeships by joining our mailing list:

Housing for Butcher and Culinary Apprentices

Our apprentices live in Casa Pulcinelli, a large farmhouse located in the Castello complex. Casa Pulcinelli has seven bedrooms, three shared bathrooms, and a fully-equipped kitchen.

Apprentices live in double-occupancy rooms with other apprentices or interns, share all meals together, work together, and often spend free time together. Apprentices and interns have use of a vehicle one afternoon a week for a trip to the neighboring town of Rosia for grocery shopping.

There are a number of recreational opportunities at Spannocchia including hiking trails, dirt roads for running, forests for foraging wild herbs and mushrooms, and a swimming pool. The views of the countryside and surrounding farm inspire painting, drawing, and other forms of artistic expression.