best montepulciano wineries to visit

12 Wineries in Montepulciano Not to Miss

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 17/02/2024

Montepulciano is quite frankly heaven for wine lovers. This stunning hilltop Tuscan town is ridiculously beautiful and it is just filled with wine. Wineries, red wine, white wine, wine cellars, oak casks, wine shops, wine bars – it really is just wine-tastic. There are so many wineries in Montepulciano.

But I have to say I didn’t find it particularly easy to plan my Montepulciano winery visit before I went. It wasn’t easy to figure out which wineries were in town, out of town, how far etc.

So here is my guide to the Wineries of Montepulciano – with some bonus hedgehogs and great meals thrown in.

Wineries in Montepulciano – How it all works

Quite a few wineries are actually in the gorgeous little hilltop town of Montepulciano Italy. I was surprised by this – normally visiting wine regions involves getting out of town.

Of course, the Montepulciano vineyards aren’t in the old town but quite a few of the wineries I visited within the town had all of their barrels tucked away in the hill of Montepulciano Tuscany.

I assumed some of these wineries were a smaller cellar door operation and that it may well be possible to visit the wineries where the grapes are.

Having said that, I am not sure if they would offer much past what is available at their operations in the town – and it is so much more convenient to just wander the town and visit wineries rather than having to join Montepulciano wine-tasting tours or organise a driver.

So, there are numerous wineries in the old town of Montepulciano as well as of course several that are outside of the town in the Montepulciano wine region.

Another thing I loved about Montepulciano was the huge number of wine bars. Every second shop seemed to be a very atmospheric wine bar with a great wine list featuring local wines.

The best thing was that virtually all of them offer wine tastings. This then means it is possible to try many of the best wineries in Italy (like Poliziano and Avignonesi) without having to leave town and go to their wineries in Montepulciano.

Quite a few of the Montepulciano wine bars also have those new style wine fridges that have little taps on the top and allow you to pick your own wines to try and the size. These were fantastic and provide a great wine tasting experience.

Plus, we found all the staff very keen to help when we were running our own Montepulciano Italy wine tasting so we learned a lot more about the wine.

So I am going to structure this post around the wineries in Montepulciano, the best wine bars we found within Montepulciano and then wineries outside the town (including some of the best wineries in Montalcino) – plus how to get there.

And some food recommendations – plus photos and hedgehogs. The hedgehogs will make sense later on.

Wineries within Montepulciano

I’ll start with the wineries that I visited in the old town.

1. Contucci Winery

In all honesty, I was a little disappointed in Contucci . They have the most amazing location virtually on the main square at the very top of Montepulciano (virtually opposite the tower).

There are two entrances – make sure you go in the one on the side street rather than the main square as this has access to all their amazing cellars and had much more atmosphere.

Contucci winery is 1000 years old! Some serious history – and an explanation for their amazing location I imagine. It is definitely worth going in for a look at their fantastic wine cellar and barrels.

In terms of tasting when I visited they were only offering 4 wines for tasting. Two were free of charge – a Rosso and a Vino Nobile. There were two others available for a price. But it seemed a very limited offer from such a prestigious winery.

Their wines were perfectly pleasant but I really felt like they were missing a trick.

2. De Ricci Winery

Ricci means hedgehog in Italy. There are a lot of hedgehogs in and around Montepulciano. There is a Hedgehog street (Via Ricci), a hedgehog hotel (Il Meuble Ricci where I stayed – more on that later) and of course a Hedgehog winery.

I very much enjoyed visiting De Ricci Winery . We started at the main entrance. It was then possible to head down many steps into what felt like the center of Montepulciano and visit their many barrels and tucked-away cellars.

At the base of the winery was the tasting room which was great fun and nice and busy.

For just five euros we had a lovely wine tasting Montepulciano of six different wines.

3. Ercolani Winery

For me, this was the best Montepulciano wine that I tried. Ercolani is a bit further down the hill within Montepulciano. It has everything going on.

Upon entry it feels like walking into a gourmet food store meets winery. There are loads of local treats – from truffle pici to all variations of pecorino and loads more.

The wine tastings are held down the back and are free. Not only were we given 5 different wines to try we were also given some very tasty snacks.

And the staff were super friendly. I ended up making a couple of purchases here of their red wine Montepulciano.

The winery is run by two brothers – Carlo and Marco. They have been agricultural entrepreneurs for 30 years. The winery itself is on 14 hectares of vineyard.

They follow the traditions of the area and use the four native grapes of the region.  Their wine is then aged in barrels in the cellars of the underground city.

Yes, this winery is also the entrance to the underground city of Montepulciano. There is 4km of paths that connect seven historic buildings of Montepulciano.

We wanted more wine so only did a quick exploration but it did look quite fun. And there are also some Etruscan Tombs that seem quite popular in this area.

⇒ If you’re looking for another beautiful place to visit in Italy you’ll enjoy my post on 14 instagrammable things to do in Rimini and around Rimini

4. Talosa Winery

Again, Talosa Winery wasn’t as good as we had expected. We had read excellent reviews. Like Contucci Winery, there was nothing wrong with it but it just seemed a bit ho-hum.

There was a free tasting of four wines which were okay but nothing amazing.

It was possible to go down to the cellars and visit the barrels but we felt a bit barrelled out by this point! However, if you are early in your Montepulciano wine tour it may be worth a visit as it has been there since 1500.

There are some other wineries in town that we didn’t get to. These were Gattavecchi Winer y and Crociani Winery . Drop me a line and tell me what they’re like if you visit.

Top Tip – check all the opening hours before visiting. Most of the wineries in town are open every day. However, some have a big lunch break, some are open quite late – it is quite the mix.

As you will be told via signs more than 10 times, most of the wineries also ship worldwide. But shipping costs can vary widely – and ensure you are up to speed with your local wine taxes on imports.

Best Wine Bars in Montepulciano

La dolce vita.

This was our absolute favourite. If you only go to one place in Montepulciano, make it La Dolce Vita !

Located on the main street, the bar runs back a long way and is filled with many wonderfully displayed wine bottles.

They have a huge range of wines by the glass (including nobile wines) and their comfortable tables are perfect for kicking back and digging in and having your own wine tasting Montepulciano.

The staff was so lovely and friendly. They provided fantastic advice and by our third visit in three days, we were told we were their customers of the week – what an honor.

We also had lunch here and my gosh the food was amazing. I had possibly the best soup I have ever eaten – full of Tuscan tomatoes and bacon and it was just extraordinary.

We also had local beans in tomato on the side which were also just amazing. The highlight of a trip full of highlights.

This little wine bar is tucked away on a windy street heading up to the main square. Per Bacco is also a deli of sorts with snacky delicious options – including the most amazing truffle pecorino – and some slightly more substantial offers.

We did a 12 euro tasting which offers four wines from the region – one white wine, one red wine Montepulciano, one full Montepulciano Tuscany wine and one nobile wine.

The tasting is presented on a paper placemat and the wines are written down.

My friend did the same tasting but was given different wines. And it is possible to make requests if you have tried the wines previously.

La Bottega Del Nobile

This wine bar on the main street offers over 60 wines for tasting through the machines. La Bottega del Nobile also serves up some great bar snacks.

We got a card worth 50 euros. This covered our tastings and snacks for the 3 of us. I don’t think we had to use the full amount, but we ended up doing so.

The staff at La Bottega del Nobile were very helpful and lovely here. Lots of ideas about what to try and places to visit.

Seating was offered inside and outside – a lovely place to hang out and drink more great Tuscan wine.

Consorzio del Vino

This wins for possibly the best wine bar location in Montepulciano. Consorzio del Vino is at the top of the town – literally. It is a classic building with a modern interior.

Consorzio del Vino has a restaurant plus many wine fridges that all have the little taps so many many wines can be tasted here.

From what I could understand, this is a consortium or grouping of wineries from the region (76 in total) which looks to promote Nobile di Montepulciano – thus the range of wineries to sample.

The restaurant/wine room at Consorzio del Vino is built on top of old cellars. The floor is glass so all of the old cellars are clearly visible underneath.

This looks fantastic but for some of the deeper ones, there is a rather strong sense of vertigo.

Even better there is a large outdoor area with seating and some rather wonderful views – perfect for wine tasting on a lovely day!

⇒ Do you like to visit wineries during your travels? I do. Check out my posts on the Best Places for Livermore Wine Tasting , 9 Best Wolfville Wineries , 12 Wineries in Montepulciano Not to Miss , 15 Vineyards in Portugal you’ll love , 14 Sensational Wineries of McLaren Vale and 7 Wine Tours Stellenbosch South Africa .

Wineries Outside Montepulciano Old Town

These are wineries that I didn’t manage to get to but looked good in my research. I also tried some of their wines in town which I will mention.

They are outside of the walled city but still not terribly far from town by car.

Poliziano Winery is one of the big names in the area. There is quite a bit of Poliziano wine on offer in the wine bars in town so perhaps try it and if you like it then organize a trip to their winery.

Like most other wines of the region, I enjoyed this when I tasted it.

Avignonesi Winery is another big name and the greatest distance from the old town. Again, Avignonesi wines are on many wine bar menus in town.

Finally, Palazzo Vecchio and Tenuta Valdipiatta showed up often in my research but I didn’t have time to visit. Do email me and tell me your thoughts if you make it to either of these wineries.

⇒ Puglia is one of my favourite regions in Italy – find out why in this post on the best places to visit in Puglia

Wineries Outside Montepulciano – Montalcino

We found our driver on google and gave him a brief – we wanted some further out wineries around Montalcino that were more focussed on Brunello.

Fabrizio was brilliant. He took us around for 7 hours and helped plan and adjust our itinerary.

He was extremely knowledgeable about wine and different types of wineries – particularly those more boutique. I highly highly recommend him.

Here are his contact details: [email protected] +39 335 537 7820

Banfi Winery

Our first stop was Banfi. Banfi Winery is where this area all began. It is run by an Italian and his delightful American wife, Pamela, whom we were lucky to meet.

Banfi was the first of the big wineries that put the area of Montalcino and Montepulciano on the wine map.

This is a big winery. Very big. But it still felt very personal. Pamela was at the entrance desk, and we ended up chatting with her for quite some time.

We were then passed on to the fantastic Lisa for our actual tasting. I think we tasted at least seven wines – I did lose track a bit. I LOVED the chardonnay and the sparkling.

I know this region is supposed to be more about the reds and I very much enjoyed these as well but it was the whites that came home with me.

The main tasting room at Banfi is more like a hall and is just lovely. There are also all kinds of produce – olive oils, truffles, ceramics, bread – all the region’s specialties.

I particularly enjoyed the giant bottles – check out the 5 litre Brunellos.

Whilst wine tours etc can be conducted at Banfi it is possible to turn up and taste as well.

The winery has two restaurants. We visited the Banfi Taverna which was just stunning. It is the most gorgeous room and a wonderful mix of special and comfortable.

There was a tasting menu option but alas we were on a schedule. I enjoyed my first serving of the local Pici pasta with a wild boar ragu – sensational.

And despite our rather sad ordering of only one course, we were brought some very tasty amuse-bouche options. And of course, we had a bottle of wine.

There is also a very high-end restaurant at Banfi. It took about 90 minutes to get from Montepulciano to Banfi by car.

Canalicchio Di Sopra Winery

Our second winery was Canalicchio Di Sopra . This was a truly boutique winery with small productions. Tasting here is by appointment only, so do book ahead.

Altesino Winery

Our third winery for the day – and bear with me as it is getting a little blurry now – was Altesino Winery which I loved.  This was my one case order of the trip – the Palazzo D’Altesi 2016 which was ridiculously drinkable.

This winery should also be pre-booked and can also organise lunch if needed.

All three wineries were on stunning estates which were extremely photogenic.

Montepulciano Wine Tours

There are many Montepulciano vineyard and wine-tasting tours on offer. Within the town, there are options to have a guided tour of one winery and i ts cellar or the same with lunch as well.

Or why not combine a guided walking tour of Montepulciano with a wine tour?

Or head outside of the old town with a wine tasting and light lunch at one of the vineyards.

⇒ Book your Montepulciano Wine Tour

Montepulciano Restaurants

We did not have a bad meal in Montepulciano. Indeed, every meal was a pretty darn extraordinary meal.

I imagine it would be hard to survive in Montepulciano if you served up bad food so I think most restaurants in town would be a good bet.

Here is where I visited and what I ate:

La Pentolaccia

Next door to La Dolce Vita on the main street, this tiny restaurant with outdoor seating definitely requires a booking. La Pentolaccia was full each night we were in town – we clocked making a booking the second day.

La Pentolaccia has two menus. One features seafood with different options for all courses. There was enough seafood option for it to be an entire restaurant itself.

There is a second menu with meat, chicken, and other non-seafood options. There are a lot of choices.

I started with the absolutely delicious cuttlefish salad. So fresh and light and the cuttlefish was perfectly cooked. We also tried the swordfish, which turned out to be smoked and wasn’t as good.

For the main, I went with the Tuscan beef. Although it was very nice beef, it was literally just beef which was a bit of a surprise.

One of my companions had the seafood pasta, which looked amazing – and apparently tasted as good. My advice here is to go with the seafood options.

L’Altro Cantucci Ristorante

L’Altro Cantucci Ristorante on the main street in Montepulciano was fantastic. This is a modern-style restaurant featuring modern Italian meals.

I enjoyed artichoke prepared in five different ways (including as ice cream) for a starter and then their homemade Pici pasta with Tuscan style ragu – amazing.

Pici is the signature pasta of Montepulciano. I had never heard of it before this visit. It is basically spaghetti plus. However, it is quite tender and more like a noodle. And may I say it is rather delicious.

The menu was classic Italian style of antipasti and first and second plates. Most of the pasta options were quite innovative and featured ingredients like smoked butter, raspberries, pistachios and much more.

Most options featured some ingredients you knew with a twist.

It was a lovely room as well – well worth a visit.

Caffé Poliziano

This is the most famous café in Montepulciano. Caffe Poliziano is a beautiful old European building and filled with atmosphere.

The range of cakes on display is rather amazing. There are two large rooms with fantastic views over the Tuscan countryside.

We just went for coffee but they offer full menus for lunch and dinner. Don’t leave Montepulciano without stopping at Caffe Poliziano at least once.

I didn’t get to Osteria Acquacheta , but it was jam-packed every time we walked past, and it was open. A meat-heavy menu but a lot of pecorino cheese options. This would have been next to try if we were staying more time.

Cucineria Pane Vino et Zucchero is a gorgeous cellar style restaurant. We enjoyed some amazing burrata and tomatoes to start with basil ice-cream. This was, of course, followed by some more Pici in a beef ragout.

Osteria del Borgo offers amazingly soft and fluffy spinach gnocchi which was one of my eating highlights – plus a roasted pork knuckle to die for.

Where to Stay in Montepulciano

I just loved Meuble Il Riccio – our historic little boutique hotel just off the main square (perfect for exploring and walking to wine bars and restaurants).

The couple who run it are delightful – they always seemed genuinely pleased to see me.

As were the many hedgehogs throughout the hotel. From small to large to paintings to door stops hedgehogs in all their forms are prevalent at the Hedgehog hotel.

But the highlight of Meuble Il Riccio is the amazing view. Even my bathroom had a jaw-droppingly stunning view over the Tuscan villas.

My room was huge with lovely high ceilings. A very large bathroom as well with shower and tub. It is very easy to buy the Italian wine Montepulciano and bring it back to the hotel to enjoy. There is a large room with tables and couches where breakfast is served plus several rooms have their own terraces.

A buffet-style breakfast is offered each morning, including cappuccinos with smiley faces and Ivana’s amazing homemade cakes.

⇒ Read more reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

Villa Poggiano and Villa Cicolina also came highly recommended.

And don’t miss my post on 7 Charming Tuscany Boutique Hotels .

For somewhere really special to stay

Wonderful Banfi, the winery I mentioned earlier, has its own Borgo. This is essentially an old Italian village.

With planning laws, very little can be changed about the borgo and they are now modernized inside to create stylish and unique accommodations.

Banfi’s Borgo has nine rooms and five suites and is just stunning. I lost count of how many charming and photogenic places there were to drink wine.

And it has been ranked in the top 10 in Italy by Conde Nast Traveller. Somewhere truly special and memorable.

⇒ Read reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

How to get to Montepulciano

The closest airports to Montepulciano are Rome and Tuscany. Rome airport has far more flights than Tuscany airport. However, Tuscany airport is much smaller. I flew into Tuscany airport from London and hired a car.

⇒ Flights to Rome & Tuscany

Montepulciano is on a minor train line, and the station is a few miles outside of town. There are then buses to get into town.

A better option can be to take the train to Chiusi, which is on the main train line. Hourly buses from Chiusi station to Montepulciano.

I would highly recommend hiring a car. Car hire is quite cheap in Italy. Meuble Il Riccio has parking.

I literally drove into Montepulciano and parked and then next used the car when I was driving back to Tuscany airport.

NB: If you do hire a car from Tuscany airport the car hire pick up and drop off is a decent shuttle bus ride from the terminal. Do make sure you allow a good extra 20-30 minutes to get to the car hire area and complete the paperwork at both ends.

⇒ Car Hire Options in Tuscany

Some of the articles I used to plan this trip:

⇒ Decanter

⇒ Emilia Delizia

⇒ Wine Words Wisdom

Related Posts:

Wineries in Rioja Spain

Vineyards of Portugal

Things to do in South Moravia Czech Republic

Who Paid for What in this Post?

I covered the cost of everything in this post. I was visiting with friends so it wasn’t meant to be a travel blog trip – but then I loved the wineries so much I thought I would share it.

And special thanks to my wine tasting partners in crime Pru and Thibault. Not only were they brilliant company and great fun they came with extensive research.

However, this post on wineries in montepulciano does contain affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will most likely receive a small commission. It won’t affect the price that you pay.

READ NEXT: 9 UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN SICILY ITALY

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Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Wednesday 30th of August 2023

This is amazing! Thank you so much. As I prepare for a visit to Montepulciano in 2 months, I've been finding it very difficult to find any specifics about wineries and tastings in the old town of Montepulciano vs. outside the town. This will give us an opportunity to maximize our enjoyment in the town and I'm so grateful to you! One question - you mentioned that you hired a driver, Fabrizio, to go to Montalcino. Would it be possible for you to share how you found a driver? I've been struggling with how to find one for some other wineries we have plans to visit. Thank you for any insight you can share. And thanks again for the wealth of information here! Colleen

Amanda OBrien

Thursday 31st of August 2023

Hi Colleen - thanks so much! this is why I wrote my article! My friend who I was travelling with found him. Why don't you ask your hotel for a recommendation? Hope you have a great trip! amanda

K. Grossberg

Wednesday 5th of July 2023

This was so helpful. We are traveling to Italy and staying in Montepulciano in the fall. We were having a problem figuring out when and how to visit wineries. Your blog is excellent. You must be fun to travel with! Thanks.

Thursday 6th of July 2023

Thanks so much for such a lovely comment! Have a great time in Montepulciano - it is fantastic!

nilmara maschio

Friday 21st of April 2023

Hey! Do I need to schedule a visit upfront for Contutti? Or can I simply go there and request a visit/wine tasting? Their website has poor information about the visits. Thank you!

Monday 24th of April 2023

Hi - why don't you try to contact them on social media and ask? cheers Amanda

Michelle King

Friday 16th of September 2022

This was so helpful! My husband and I are visiting this area next week and have struggled to find much information about wineries in the area!

Saturday 17th of September 2022

Thanks Michelle! Hope you have a great trip!

Friday 17th of April 2020

Wonderful insights and review. We visited on way from a Reggello Villa toward Rome as a side trip for lunch a couple years ago. I will always remember the glass of Brunello and presentation of Chianina. Not a light lunch. God willing, I will use your guide in this September for more.

The Boutique Adventurer

Saturday 18th of April 2020

thanks Don! Can't have a light lunch in Italy! I am hoping to be back in Italy by September as well!

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The 21 Best Wineries In Montepulciano

We asked italians living in montepulciano "what are the best wineries" - these are their local favorites.

Nathan Heinrich

• June 17, 2023
• Rome, Italy

In this article, we will look at 21 of the very best wineries in Montepulciano with a local Italian as our guide.

Besides the best wines, we will also highlight the breathtaking views, wine production style, and lovely tasting rooms of these top regional winemakers.

We will also showcase other local products such as extra virgin olive oil, of which many local producers offer free tastings.

The town of Montepulciano, and the surrounding area, are renowned for their historic Sangiovese grapes and their famous Vino Nobile of Montepulciano (Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG) varietal.   

Montepulciano, nestled in the heart of Tuscany, is a dream destination for wine lovers seeking to indulge in world-class wines and explore one of the world’s most wonderful wine regions.   

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Our Local Wine Expert

With its rolling vineyards, picturesque landscapes, and charming town, the Montepulciano “wine district” or “wine region” offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts. 

Guiding us to each beautiful location will be Vera Sarzano, a local wine expert and virtual Italian language coach, who lives in the nearby Chianti Classico wine district.

So off we go to Montepulciano in the region of Tuscany in Central Italy to taste the best Montepulciano wines and visit family farms with their rich history of winemaking in this beautiful place.

1.) Gattavecchi Winery

When planning your winery visits, Gattavecchi Winery should be at the top of your list.

This historic winery offers a remarkable tasting room experience.  

Their well-known Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, made from Sangiovese grapes, is one of the great wines of the area.

The winery’s commitment to quality winemaking, combined with its beautiful vineyards and panoramic views, are just a few of the many reasons Gattavecchi Winery is at the top of our list of the best wineries of Montepulciano.

2.) Cantina Ercolani

Cantina Ercolani is well-known in the Montepulciano area as a top wine shop.   

This is a great starting point on your tour of the area as it is one of the most popular wineries with truly fantastic local wines.

3.) Talosa Winery

Immerse yourself in the world of fine wines at Talosa Winery , a historic establishment with a legacy dating back to the 16th century.

This picturesque winery offers guided tours of the vineyard, where you can stroll through hectares of vineyards and learn about their dedication to sustainable winemaking practices.  

Their remarkable Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG is truly a noble wine with excellent aging potential.

The winery’s inviting tasting room allows wine enthusiasts to sample their extraordinary wines while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

4.) Contucci Family Cellars

Contucci Family Cellars is one of Montepulciano’s oldest wineries.

With a history spanning over a thousand years, this winery offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s winemaking heritage.

Cellar tours will take you through an underground sea of oak barrels filled with the family’s delicious wines made from the famous Montepulciano grape varietal.

5.) Avignonesi Winery

Avignonesi Winery is located in the picturesque Val di Chiana area.

It is well-known for its dedication to organic and biodynamic practices.

This environmentally conscious winery produces fantastic wine, including the prized Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG and the iconic Vin Santo. 

Take a guided tour of their vineyard and observe their commitment to sustainability.

The Avignoesi family makes the perfect wine for the organic wine enthusiast. 

6.) Boscarelli Winery

Nestled among olive groves and vineyards, Boscarelli Winery is a hidden gem in Montepulciano.  

This family-owned winery produces exceptional Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG wines that beautifully reflect the true character of the Sangiovese grape.

This incredible winery’s welcoming tasting room invites wine lovers to savor their red wines while immersing themselves in the beauty of the Tuscan countryside.

7.) Poliziano Winery

Located in the heart of Montepulciano, Poliziano Winery is a true blend of tradition and innovation.

With their meticulous vineyard management and modern winemaking techniques, they produce exceptional wines that capture the essence of the region.

Their historic wine cellars are absolutely gorgeous.  

The winery’s tasting room, with its elegant atmosphere and beautiful view of the vineyards, provides the ideal setting to sample its impressive range of wines.

8.) Bindella Winery 

A visit to Bindella Winery is the perfect way to experience the rolling hills of Montepulciano.  

With a focus on organic cultivation and minimal intervention, Bindella produces exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Montepulciano region.

9.) Canneto Winery

Located just a short drive from the city centre of Montepulciano, Canneto Winery is a hidden gem known for its commitment to traditional winemaking techniques.

This boutique winery focuses on producing limited quantities of high-quality wines, including Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG and Rosso di Montepulciano DOC.  

Be sure to add this understated winery to your Montepulciano wine tour.

10.) Salcheto Winery

Salcheto Winery stands out for its innovative approach to sustainable winemaking.

Embracing biodynamic and carbon-neutral practices, Salcheto produces exceptional Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG wines that express the unique characteristics of the terroir.  

Take a tour of the vineyard and learn about the family’s commitment to energy efficiency and eco-friendly production.  

Salcheto is one of the best places to taste the organic wines of the Montepulciano region.   

11.) Icario Winery

This winery is a truly fantastic location in the Tuscan area of Montepulciano.  

Their Nysa Rosé wine is rated as the best in Tuscany by visitors.

 A visit to Icario is a great way to see and taste the local wines of this unique region.  

A private wine tasting tour at Icario is the perfect way to spend your time in Montepulciano.

Whether you’re a white wine or red wine connoisseur the best way to enjoy both, while visiting Tuscany, is at this boutique winery.

12.) Dei Winery

Located just a few miles from the city walls of old town Montepulciano, Dei Winery is an impressive winemaking facility.

With vineyards extending over 700 acres, Dei Winery is one of the most exceptional wineries in the region.  

Behind the cellar doors at Dei are some of the best wines in the area, especially the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG which is well-known for its elegance and structure.  

Of the numerous wineries in Montepulciano, this is one you won’t want to miss.

13.) Villa Sant'Anna

The wine at Sant’Anna is “Smooth and soft with an elegant structure” according to owner Signora Simona.  

This woman-owned and operated winery is just one more good reason to visit Montepulciano.  

While savoring la Bottega del Nobile vino or Vin Santo, at this fantastic winery, you will be so grateful you included it in your winetasting tour of the area.

14.) La Braccesca

​ This small family-owned winery is well worth the visit.  

Their Nobile di Montepulciano is one of the best DOC wines in this wine region.  

You can expect to get VIP treatment at La Braccesca Winery .  

After a short walk at your own pace through the Trebbiano Toscano vines and tasting their Montepulciano d’Abruzzo wine, you will add this winery to your list of favorites.

15.) Manvi Winery

​ The first thing you will appreciate about this gorgeous location is the stunning view out over the  Montepulciano hills.  

A close second to the views is the delicious wine that is poured by the warm and inviting owners and staff.  

This boutique winery is well-known for transforming local grape varieties into some of the region’s most fabulous wines.

Rather than searching for Manvi wines in Montepulciano town wine shops, go directly to the source and taste them at the winery.  

This winery is guaranteed to become one of your favorites.

16.) Cantina Crociani

​ This family-owned local  Montepulciano winery is truly unique.  

The Crociani family will make you feel welcome and spoiled during your visit.  

If you have the unique opportunity to indulge in their incredible wines in the comfort of their beautiful tasting and dining room you will never forget it.

Besides the wine, the family and their staff will serve you fresh-made local bread with their very own extra virgin olive oil.  

Don’t miss the chance to experience this wonderful winery just a short drive from the main street of Montepulciano.

17.) Carpineto Winery

​ Carpineto Winery , located in the picturesque Montepulciano countryside, is recognized for its portfolio of premium wines that capture the essence of the region.

With vineyards spread across Tuscany, Carpineto Winery combines tradition with modern techniques to produce wines of exceptional quality.

Carpineto Winery offers special guided tours of its vineyards and cellars, allowing visitors to explore the winemaking process and appreciate the scenic beauty surrounding the estate.

18.) La Ciarliana Winery

​ La Ciarliana Winery is truly a hidden gem nestled in the rolling hills of Montepulciano.

This family-run winery is known for its commitment to organic and sustainable winemaking.  

While visiting La Ciarliana, sample their range of exceptional wines, including their flagship Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, which beautifully represents the region’s terroir . 

La Ciarliana Winery offers personalized tastings and guided tours, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic and intimate atmosphere of the estate. 

19.) Tenuta Valdipiatta Winery

Tenuta Valdipiatta Winery is a prestigious estate situated on the outskirts of Montepulciano.

With a focus on sustainable viticulture, the winery produces a range of outstanding wines including the acclaimed Riserva. 

Visit their fantastic tasting room, where knowledgeable staff guides you through a selection of exceptional wines, known for their balance, complexity, and longevity.  

Just a few kilometers from the main square of Montepulciano, perhaps this should be the first wine you taste in the area.

20.) Tenuta Valdipiatta Winery

Besides wine, be sure to taste some of owner Gabriella’s special Lemoncello while visiting Azienda Agricola Romeo winery .

 You will be telling all your friends and family about this wonderful place and counting the days until you can return.

The great wine, excellent service, and beautiful location are a must while touring the Montepulciano wine district.

21.) Podere Le Berne Winery

Podere Le Berne Winery is a small, family-owned estate in Montepulciano’s picturesque countryside.

Embracing organic and biodynamic practices, the winery produces a limited quantity of artisanal wines.  

Indulge in the flavors of their exceptional wines, including Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG and Rosso di Montepulciano DOC.

Podere Le Berne Winery also offers vineyard tours and walks through their olive groves, allowing visitors to connect with nature and experience the harmony between the vineyards and the surrounding landscape.

The Closest Airport To Montepulciano

If you’re planning a trip to Montepulciano and are looking for the nearest airports, there are two you should consider.  

The city of Florence has a small regional airport named Amerigo Vespucci.  

Pisa, which is also in the region of Tuscany, has a small airport as well which is called Galileo Galilei .   

You will want to fly to a larger international airport, such as Milan or Rome when flying to Italy.

But once you’re in Italy you may want to take a local flight into one of these smaller, less-crowded airports to get around Italy quickly.

Conclusion 

By exploring these remarkable wineries in Montepulciano, as a wine enthusiast, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the region’s winemaking heritage and indulge in the flavors of the world-class wines it has to offer.

With their sustainable practices and artisanal approach, each winery showcases the unique characteristics of Montepulciano’s terroir and the passion of its winemakers. 

As you embark on a wine journey through Montepulciano, let the beauty of the vineyards, the passion of the winemakers, and the exquisite flavors of the wines captivate your senses.

Whether you prefer the complexity of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG or the charm of other local varieties, these wineries promise an unforgettable experience that combines history, tradition, and the artistry of winemaking.

Each winery mentioned above offers a distinct experience, showcasing the diversity and craftsmanship of Tuscan wines.

Take the time to explore the tasting rooms, vineyards, and cellars, immersing yourself in the flavors and stories that make these best wineries of Montepulciano, truly remarkable.

While visiting Tuscany you may also want to visit the C hianti Classico Wine Region .   

Read our local guide to the 23 Best Wineries in Chianti.

Official Websites For The Montepulciano Wine Region:

https://montepulcianoit.com/

Disclosure: Here at All Roads Lead To Italy, we only recommend products we would use ourselves and all opinions expressed here are our own.

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Nathan is a writer, designer & horticulturist. He is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of "All Roads Lead to Italy" Magazine & host of the Top-10 Travel Podcast, "I'm Moving To Italy!". Nathan was born and raised in a 6th generation farming family in Northern California, he is currently, a dual Italian citizen, living in the Prosecco Valley of Northern Italy, near Venice.

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10 Wineries to Visit in Montepulciano

• April 10, 2022
• Food & Wine , Italy

Can’t Miss Vino Nobiles During Your Tuscan Tour

When we embarked on our journey to find our perfect enclave for a wine-drive luxury boutique hotel in Tuscany , Montepulciano kept coming up tops for us for a reason. Chianti most certainly is more famous in the minds of many Americans, and Montalcino has its famous robust Brunellos that wow wine aficionados but Montepulciano has its Vino Nobile, which I see as a perfect balance between the two, balancing the elegance of Chianti Classico with the structure of Brunello. Add to the fact that Montepulciano is the oldest DOCG in Italy and the region still remains beautifully true to its heritage. There are dozens and dozens of amazing vineyards producing wonderful wines at great values; some are larger producers that you may see in your local wine shop but many are small local producers that are family-owned and operated, as they have been for generations, putting tons of heart and soul into every harvest and every bottle.

Sangiovese is Tuscany’s most predominant grape and per the DOCG guidelines, Vino Nobile must be at least 70% Sangiovese though many producers go well beyond that, with some using exclusively Sangiovese for their production. You’ll find Canaiolo, Mammolo, and Colorino are the most commonly used indigenous varieties in blending, though some international varietals are used as well. The majority of wineries produce a Vino Nobile in line with the DOCG requirements, but you’ll find some offering whites and rosés, others specializing in unique Supertuscans, and yet others that offer some unique single varietal options that are rare to find. Below, in no particular order, I’m sharing 10 wineries to visit in Montepulciano when wine tasting in Tuscany , plus what makes each worth visiting.

1 Located adjacent to Borgo San Vincenzo , Poderi Boscarelli’s vineyards feature prominently in our aerial shots and it’s a winery that consistently ranks amongst the top wineries to visit in Montepulciano for visitors to the region. Dating back to the 1960s, Boscarelli focuses primarily on their Vino Nobile, which makes up about 80% of their production. Their tasting room is modest and rustic, which I think adds to the charm of it all. Nothing here feels like it’s done for show; it’s a true, functioning wine farm. If timed right, you can see harvest underway and grapes being destemmed and sorted while you walk through before a tasting. Their Vino Nobile is the standout here, but for anyone wanting to mix it up from Sangiovese, they also offer a Merlot produced from vineyards in Cortona.

Read more about Poderi Boscarelli. ✪

De’ Ricci

2 De’ Ricci is located  in  the medieval town of Montepulciano and benefits from having one of the coolest wine caves around. De’ Ricci offers scheduled tours during the day (including English language) which makes visiting and tasting very accessible. During the tour, you’ll visit the Etruscan cave and Wine Cathedral, which provides a serious sense of place. When you’re done, you can marvel over the views of Montepulciano from the viewpoint — truly a stunner! You’ll have a choice of tastings, which can include a more comprehensive option that serves up their exclusive Soraldo — and don’t miss a taste of their housemade olive oil while you’re at it.

Read more on De’ Ricci here. 

La Combarbia

Read more on La Combarbia here .

La Braccesca

Read more about La Braccesca. ✪

5 Led by Caterina Dei, Cantine Dei focuses on sustainable winemaking with a great range of wines that includes a white and rosé.  The Dei family was historically involved in excavating and processing travertine for generations and it’s something that’s apparent when you visit their impressive travertine cellar. A local singer, Caterina is also a woman of the arts and the artistic edge is highlighted with a sculpture garden outdoors. If you’re looking to mix it up from traditional reds associated with Tuscany, Dei’s whites and rosé are a great way to beat the summer heat! That said, you may not get a taste of it, but don’t miss Madonna delle Querce, Dei’s premium red label that is one of the region’s finest.

Read more about Cantine Dei here . ✪

6 Another art-driven hotel, Bindella melds art and wine in their impressive tasting room. It’s one of the few wineries that offers a full restaurant – an impressive one at that – making it a good place for a lunch with pairings as well. I’ve talked about how the Douro Valley is arguably the world’s most beautiful wine region but let’s be real: Tuscany gives it a run for its money with neverending vineyards and undulating hills for days. The outdoors offer up incredible views of the vineyards below and the inside offers contemporary art, largely done by a Berlin-based artist who’s visited the estate for over a decade.

Read more about Bindella .

Montemercurio

7 Possibly my #1 bottle of wine ordered when I’m out to dinner is Montemercurio’s Messagero, their signature Nobile. It’s a solidly good wine that never fails to impress and was reason enough for us to want to go to their tasting room for a flight (€25pp) after realizing it was one of the few major wineries in Montepulciano we’d failed to visit. Wineries each typically have their premium wine that’s made during select years; something special that you rarely get to taste not necessarily due to price but due to the fact that few bottles are ever made. Dei has Madonna delle Querce, Avignonesi has 50/50. Here, Montemercurio has Damo, their premium offering that’s produced during exceptional vintages. And yes, it’s part of the tasting so go! 

Read more about Montemercurio here .

8 Avignonesi sits positioned on the cusp of Cortona and Montepulciano, a gorgeous estate with a focus on biodynamic viticulture that lends itself perfectly to guided tours. Avignonesi’s wine is top class and their tasting room and experiences on offer excel. They have standard options like a tour with tasting (available in English as well, which you can pre-book), but also offer cooking classes, ‘The Cellar Door’ Experience, and the ‘Grand Experience’. Avignonesi’s 50/50 is a must-try (it’s done in partnership with a winery in Chianti), and their sweet wines, a Vin Santo and their Occhio di Pernice, are super local specialties that are must-tries. Retailing at €100s for the miniature bottles, after learning the process of making Vin Santo, you’ll be impressed you can even get your hands on it at all.

Read more about Avignonesi here . ✪

9 Salcheto is really the leader in sustainability when it comes to wineries — not just in Montepulciano, but in Italy, and arguably within Europe broadly. A glance at their setup and you’ll quickly notice that they’re leveraging the elements for winemaking and for their facilities. The winery has an “off-grid” cellar which is considered a model of environmental efficiency and technological innovation on the continent. Their Salco wine is one of my faves, but for lovers of natural wines try their Obvius line, which brings that yeasty funk (in a good way) that you’ll find in orange wines. Salcheto offers lunch as well — another great option for a bit during your day of tasting!

Read more about Salcheto here . ✪

1 0 When it comes to wineries to visit in Montepulciano, Poliziano is one you may know from home; a wine that does make its way occasionally into the export market and has earned its place amongst the faves in the region with great wines and a great hospitality product. They offer a range of beautiful options produced in Montepulciano including their beloved Asinone but also produce a Supertuscan in Maremma that brings its own flair.

Read more about Poliziano here . ✪ 

✪ The six wineries starred here make up the Alliance Vinum. “Six pure Sangiovese wines, each the product of a single vineyard and the culmination of the utmost viticultural and emotional commitment on the part of six outstanding wineries. While being naturally different, their story brings them together: they are an example of the best things that the Tuscan Montepulciano can give. Above all, they strive to become continuous inspiration, direction and motivation. Always evolving and never just a destination.”

Wine lovers, which wineries are your favorite in Montepulciano? I know this list doesn’t scratch the surface so share any other small producers you love! 

More about Shannon Kircher

Shannon Kircher is the founder and editor of The Wanderlust Effect. Founded in 2009, she has continued to document her international escapes as an expat in Europe and the Caribbean. Additionally, Shannon is the founder of Compass & Vine, a luxury boutique travel design firm, and is the Director of Marketing for the Frangipani Beach Resort. Shannon holds an MSc in Social Policy and Development from the London School of Economics and is a current candidate for WSET Level 3 in Wines & Spirits.

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15 Wonderful Wineries in Montepulciano

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Wineries in Montepulciano won’t be hard to come by, as they’re the very backbone of this beloved Tuscan hilltop town.

While the ideal scenario would be to sip and savor at each of them, I’m breaking down some of the top wineries to help maximize your time.

Besides, this will free up room on your Italy itinerary for all of the other wonderful things to do in Montepulciano ! So whether you’re going full-on vineyard hopping or sizing up the options, I recommend visiting at least one winery while you’re in town. Speaking of, don’t forget to check out the best wine hotels in Tuscany while you’re at it!

So without further ado, let’s raise a glass to some of the best wineries in Montepulciano!

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Read the  full disclosure here .

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A Brief Word on Montepulciano Wineries

One of my favorite fun facts about Italy is that it’s the largest wine exporter in the world, so it’s easy to see why vineyard-hopping is such a popular activity in Montepulciano!

Plus, this wine-focused town is famous for producing some of the best wines across the globe, so it really is a can’t-miss experience when in Tuscany.

FUN FACT: As a significant wine producer, the old city of Montepulciano is perched above a fascinating underground world of wine cellars!

While there are a significant number of Montepulciano wineries within city limits, that’s only the beginning of what you’ll find in this incredible region. You’ll also find a bevy of them perched atop Montepulciano’s rolling hills and nestled in the landscapes of Tuscany .

While the region of Tuscany is known for a variety of wines such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino, the most famous variety – and the one we’ll touch on most in this guide – is Nobile di Montepulciano.

Generally regarded as the best wine in Montepulciano, this medium-bodied red is produced from the Sangiovese grape. It’s recognized for its vibrant, fruity aromas of plum, cherry, and strawberry, all of which are accented by subtle spicy and earthly notes.

15 Best Wineries in Montepulciano

1. avignonesi.

Avignonesi is one of the most special wineries I’ve visited on my travels (and trust me, I’ve been to quite a few)! Located just over a 5-minute drive from Borgo Tre Rose – one of the loveliest vineyard hotels in Tuscany – this winery is best known for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, made predominantly from Sangiovese grapes.

The Avignonesi estate was originally founded by the family who bears its name back in 1974. In 2009, it was acquired by Virgine Saverys who built it into the impressive 420+-acre Montepulciano vineyards you see today. Avignonesi is so large, in fact, that you can reach the property by helicopter!

Beyond Avignonesi’s initial beauty, you’ll find a truly unique and special winery that places an emphasis on sustainability and minimal intervention with nature and the ecosystem.

FUN FACT: Avignonesi is an organic, Biodyvin-certified vineyard. It holds the record as the largest biodynamic winery in Italy!

In addition, Avignonesi loves to share its sustainable mission with wine lovers through a variety of tours and classes. My husband and I did the “Tour & Taste” option and loved every minute of it.

During this tour, we visited the La Stella and La Tonda vineyards and got to observe the grapes at various stages of the winemaking process, from the drying room, to the barrel, to their final retirement in the cellar.

The tour concluded with a tasting of four wines, which was an absolute delight!

Plus, we even had the chance to meet the winery’s cutest employee after the tasting! As the staff said, she’s the one who truly runs this place!

In any case, I highly recommend that you join one of the available tours if you make the visit.

Avignonesi offers the following tours and classes:

• Tour & Taste – This is the most popular experience Avignonesi offers. This estate tour runs for approximately 90 minutes and provides an overview of how the winery is run through biodynamic viticulture. It includes a visit to two of the property’s most famous vineyards: La Stella and La Tonda and concludes with a tasting of four wines. Reservations are required.
• The Cellar Door Experience – This casual experience is held in Avignonesi’s wine bar and includes a 2-person lunch platter. Wine is available at an additional fee, whether you choose to enjoy your favorite variety or sample a range of different wines. Walk-ins are gladly accepted and no reservations are required.
• The Grand Experience – This special experience runs for approximately three hours, fusing a seasonal and organic gourmet lunch with a tasting of Avignonesi’s top wines on the winery’s panoramic terrace. It includes a visit to one of the most renowned wine plots in the country as well as the fascinating wine aging cellars. Reservations are required.
• The Cooking Class – Under the guidance of a top winery chef, this class will teach you the ins and outs of preparing a healthy four-course Tuscan meal – all while you’re sipping Avignonesi wine, of course! The class will conclude with a tasting of what you’ve made – including delicious pici pasta – so that you can enjoy the fruits of your labor. Since this tour runs for approximately five hours and thirty minutes (from 9AM – 3:30PM), be sure to set aside time in your schedule for this exciting half-day experience. Reservations are required.
• Private Dinner – Avignonesi is proud to serve as the centerpiece for those special life events, from weddings, to anniversaries, to milestone birthday dinners.

In addition, the property itself is also gorgeous and definitely worth exploring independently after a tour.

What to Know Before You Go:

Avignonesi closes its doors for the winter season in January and February. Beyond that, the winery is open year-round from March – December.

How to Get Here:

Avignonesi is located at Via Colonica, 1 53045 Valiano di Montepulciano, SI.

2. Cantina De' Ricci

Named after the Ricci family of 1150, Cantina De’ Ricci is a beloved winery located in Montepulciano’s old city. The first barrel from this winery’s cellar dates back to 1337!

Part of the thrill of visiting this iconic winery is the exciting descent you’ll make down the long staircases into the ancient cellar. Here, you’ll get a look behind-the-scenes at the wine as it ages in massive barrels – upwards of 10k liters to be exact – protected by the cellar’s huge vaults. How impressive is that?!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Wine Cathedral in Tuscany (@cantinadericci)

Underneath the impressive vaulted ceilings, wine tours and tastings are provided to curious travelers and history lovers. You can read about the winery’s interesting history here .

FUN FACT: Speaking of historophiles, Rick Steves visited Cantina De’ Ricci on his Tuscan travels!

In addition to cellar tastings, wine tastings with a view are offered on Palazzo Ricci’s terrace when weather allows.

Beyond the city-centric winery are the countryside vineyards, where the wine process begins.

Cantina De’ Ricci derives its wine from nearly 75 acres of vineyards located across three separate areas in Montepulciano. These are all ideal for cultivation.

There are a number of red and white grape varieties which are used for the different wines you’ll find at Cantina De’ Ricci.

Red grapes include:

• Petit Verdot
• Cabernet Sauvignon

White grapes include:  

Cantina De’ Ricci is located at Via Ricci, 11, 53045 Montepulciano SI.

There are actually two separate entrances in Montepucliano’s old city: one from Via Ricci and another from Via di Collazzi. Via Ricci (the common entry point) is located near the iconic Piazza Grande, at the highest point of Montepulciano’s old city. From here, you can access the winery from a large brick staircase.

3. Podere Casanova

Podere Casanova is more than just one of the best wineries in Montepulciano – it’s actually a winery/farmhouse combination!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Podere Casanova (@poderecasanovamontepulciano)

Surrounded by enchanting forests, vineyards, and lavender fields, you can enjoy a taste of delicious wine and a taste of country life with an overnight stay !

This 37-acre property was realized by a husband-and-wife team and pays tribute to Giacomo Casanova. While it offers a variety of Tuscan wines, it places a special emphasis on Nobile di Montepulciano, one of the unmistakable stars of the region.

In addition, the peaceful property offers ample opportunities for you to soak in everything the landscape has to offer, from guided tours and tastings, to a romantic dinner, to a relaxing picnic organized by Podere Casanova.

Plus, if you’re interested in exploring beyond the farmhouse, Podere Casanova offers a guided, 4-hour “ wine trekking ” experience. This tour will take you through the hills and vineyards surrounding the farm cellar for an up-close look at the viticulture. And, since it’s always wise to save the best for last, the tour will conclude with a cellar visit and a wine tasting with a delicious lunch!

Podere Casanova is located at Strada Provinciale 326 Est, n, 53045 Montepulciano SI.

Talosa dates back to 1972 and was started by the Jacorossi family. Its historic cellar and wine shop are located in Montepulciano’s old city, not far from the Piazza Grande.

Wine tastings are held in the impressive historic cellar, located under the Piazza Grande.

FUN FACT: The Talosa wine cellar dates back to 1500!

You can easily access the cellar through the wine shop entrance on Via Talosa 8.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fattoria della Talosa (@fattoriatalosa)

While touring the cellar, you’ll get a look at the giant barrels that house the winery’s supply of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Here, it’s aged for a period of two years alongside the sister variety, Vino Nobile Riserva, which ages for three.  

In addition, private cellar visits may also be arranged. These include a guided tour of the cellar followed by a sampling of several wines in an exclusive tasting room.

Beyond the wine shop and cellar, Talosa welcomes you to book at stay at their beautiful villa in the Montepulciano countryside.

Here, atop a hill surrounded by vineyards, you can enjoy a relaxing retreat.

Guests of Talosa Villa will receive a 10% discount on E-bike rentals to best explore the beautiful countryside!

Talosa’s historic cellar is located at Via Talosa 8, 53045 Montepulciano SI, about 20 meters from Piazza Grande.

5. Poliziano

The Poliziano Estate on which the Azienda Agricola Poliziano sits was first established in 1961 by Dino Carletti. This family business is now on its third generation. With humble beginnings of a “mere” 54 acres, this wine estate has blossomed into a whopping 640-acre area in between Montepulciano and Cortona.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Poliziano (@polizianowinery)

Upholding a similar mission to Avignonesi, the wine estate owes its success to its hands-off-the-land approach, allowing nature to run its course with minimal intervention. The focus is on strategically planting (and reassessing and replanting) where there’s optimal soil for the estate’s predominantly Sangiovese grapes.

In addition, solar panels provide power for more than 20% of the winery.

FUN FACT: 2021 saw Poliziano’s first official harvest of 100% certified organic wines.

A tour of the winery will be an experience to remember. You’ll discover the process of winemaking from the vine to the cellar and finish with a tasting of the estate’s best wines in the newly-renovated Angelo Ambrogini room.

Poliziano specializes in 6 different wine varieties:

• Poliziano Rossi Di Montepulciano DOC
• Poliziano Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano DOCG
• Poliziano Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano Asinone DOCG
• Poliziano “Le Caggiole” Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano DOCG
• Poliziano “In Violas” Merlot Cortona DOC
• Poliziano “Le Stanze Del Poliziano” Toscana IGT

Too enamored by the picturesque property to leave? Not to worry! The estate also has a villa for those who wish to spend the night in rural luxury.

Azienda Agricola Poliziano is located at Via Fontago, 1 53045 Montepulciano SI.

6. Tenuta Vadipiatta

Tenuta Vadipiatta is a beautiful example of Tuscan biodiversity.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tenuta Valdipiatta (@valdipiatta)

This magnificent estate vineyard and winery was originally founded in the 1960s and was later acquired by Giulio Caporali in the 1980s. In 2001, Caporali turned it over to his daughter, Miriam. In 2018, it received its official EU organic certification.

Tenuta Vadipiatta offers the following tours & tastings:

• Wine & Extra Virgin Olive Oil Tasting – This tasting includes 4 Valdipiatta wines paired with Tuscan bread and EVOO .
• Classic Tour & Tasting – This experience includes a tour of the fermentation room and wine-aging cellar followed by a tasting of 4 Valdipiatta wines.
• Flavours of Tuscany – This tour begins with a visit to the wine production facility and aging cellar followed by a tasting of 4 Valdipiatta wines paired with sheep-milk cheeses, cold cuts, and Tuscan bread with EVOO.
• Old Vintages Tasting – This experience begins in the wine cellar for a look at the winemaking process followed by a tasting of three varietals.
• Valdipiatta Experience – This thorough, 90-minute wine cellar and production facility tour will conclude with a tasting of all Tenuta Valdipiatta’s wine production.
• Private Barrel Wine Tasting – For a more exclusive experience, this private tour includes the unique and special opportunity to sample wine right from the source – the barrel!
• Private Winemaking Class – This 2.5-hour experience will cover the ins and outs of the wine production process, including a vineyard visit. For the grand finale, you’ll have the opportunity to sample wines from different oak barrels.
• Yoga & Wine – For a full body-mind-and-soul experience you won’t soon forget, you can practice yoga in nature followed by a wine tasting with this 2.5-hour event.

Tenuta Vadipiatta is located at Via Ciarliana 25, 53045, Montepulciano SI.

7. Salcheto Winery

Born in the 1980s, Salcheto is one of the most unique and energy-efficient wineries in Montepulciano. Salcheto’s mission is to produce territorial wines in an off-the-grid fashion.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Salcheto (@salcheto)

Housed in a 13th-century farmhouse, this sustainable, energy-autonomous winery makes use of everything from solar skylights, to adiabatic irrigation of the roof, to photovoltaic-produced energy. Each of these measures helps to reduce waste and lower the carbon footprint.

FUN FACT:  The Salcheto name was inspired by the stream that starts at the base of Montepulciano and runs through a willow-tree-lined valley. The branches of the willows were once used to help secure grape vines to their posts.

Salcheto produces a combination of reds, whites, rosés, and dessert wines. This winery is also the proud recipient of international awards for its spectacular Vino Nobile.

In addition to a wine bar (which is open daily), Salcheto offers cellar tours followed by a tasting.

Alternatively, you can grab a seat at the wine bar and order an à la carte lunch with a tasting.

In addition to the winery, there’s also the Salcheto Winehouse , located in the center of the wine estate. This 6-room farmhouse is available for rent, with rooms offering sweeping countryside views.

The kitchen is open daily from 10AM – 5PM for lunch/brunch.

All guests of the Salcheto Winehouse will receive a complimentary breakfast with their stay.

Salcheto is located at Via Villa Bianca, 15 53045 Montepulciano SI.

8. Icario Winery

The Icario Estate began in 1999 and has since become one of the leading producers of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Located in between Val di Chiana and Val d’Orcia, this 126+-acre winery practices holistic precision farming in an effort to reduce chemical processes on its vineyards.

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If you’re interested in a tour or tasting, you’ll have the following options to select from:

• Icario Class Experience (Wine Tastings) – With this classic experience, you’ll receive an introduction to the Icario Winery followed by a sampling of five wines and olive oil. Tastings are available by appointment only.
• Icario Premium Experience (Wine Tours) – Wine tours include a visit to the vineyards and cellar and a lesson from a certified sommelier on winemaking and aging techniques. A tasting of six wines and olive oil will follow. Tours are available upon request.
• Icario Masterpiece Experience (Wine Tours) – Led by an art expert and sommelier, this tour will provide an introduction to the works of international artists on display in the glass-floored art gallery. A tasting of six wines and olive oil will follow. Tours are available upon request.
• Icario Prestige Experience (Icario Wine Lounge Terrace) – This customizable experience can be tailored to meet your individual wishes. It will include a guided tour of the cellar, a tasting of two vintages, a three-course lunch on the wine lounge terrace, and even a bonus gift! Tours are available upon request.

If you don’t want the fun to stop once your tasting/tour is over, you can enjoy a luxurious stay at the Villa Icario , including an infinity pool and concierge service. Rentals are provided on a weekly basis.

Icario is located at Via delle Pietrose, 2 53045 Montepulciano SI.

9. Carpineto

Founded in 1967 just outside of Greve in Chianti, Carpineto encompasses an impressive five estates throughout Tuscany: Dudda Estate, Montalcino Estate, Montepulciano Estate, Gaville Estate, and Gavorrano Estate.

As we’re specifically focusing on wineries in Montepulciano right now, I’ll exclusively be covering details for the Montepulciano Estate.

That said, you may wish to pay a visit to some of the sister estates, depending on how much time you have in your itinerary.

Carpineto’s Montepulciano Estate covers an impressive 442 acres of land in Tuscany’s desirable Vino di Nobile region. Of the 442 acres, approximately 300 of them are sustainably-farmed vineyards planted predominantly with Sangiovese grapes for Vino di Montepulciano.

In addition, some international varietals are also grown on the estate for the production of Farnito wines.

Beyond the vineyard, the estate is home to an impressive ventilated winery equipped with a solar panel system for improved sustainability as well as a spacious bottle-aging cellar.

Plus, perhaps the most impressive addition is the estate’s wildlife refuge, which is home to migratory birds seeking shelter.

A tour and tasting combination is available at the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Estate. The tour will begin with a brief introduction to the Carpineto mission followed by a walk through the vineyards, the highest density vineyards of their kind in all of Italy!

After the vineyard walk, you’ll enjoy a guided tour through the barrel cellar followed by a wine tasting overlooking the cellar.

The tasting will include:

• 1 Dogajolo Bianco
• 3 Carpineto wines
• 1 Super Tuscan

Alternatively, if you’d like to pair your tour and tasting with a picnic, that’s an option as well! The “Merenda Toscana” tour begins in a similar fashion to the traditional tour and tasting, but it’s followed by a picturesque open-air picnic overlooking the vineyards and a lake.

You can review the availability and pricing for each of the tours here .

Carpineto is located at Strada Provinciale della Chiana, 62, 53042 Montepulciano SI.

10. Fattoria Svetoni

Fattoria Svetoni – formerly Leopoldina and owned by the Grand Duke of Tuscany – has been producing wine since 1865. With nearly 57 acres of vineyards, a centuries-old cellar, and an elegant wine resort and villa available for rent, you can enjoy the royal Tuscan experience!

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While Fattoria Svetoni is most known for its Sangiovese grapes, this farm and winery produces everything from reds, to whites, to rosés.

Fattoria Svetoni offers three tasting options :

• Visit & Wine Tasting – This classic experience begins with a tour of the production facilites and cellar followed by a tasting of three wines.
• Svetoni Tasting – This next-tier experience includes a tour of both the vineyards and the cellar followed by a tasting of five wines.
• Sangiovese Tasting – This ultimate experience includes a full tour of the winery followed by a tasting in the historic cellar paired with fresh local produce.

As I mentioned, Fattoria Svetoni is more than just a winery; it’s also an intimate 12-room villa surrounded by gardens (including a vegetable garden), an olive grove, and the vineyard where Fattoria Svetoni is produced. Here, you can enjoy a comfortable stay with a pool surrounded by nature.

In addition, if the idea of a wine resort appeals to you, be sure to check out the most romantic wine hotels in Tuscany so you won’t miss out on the best ones!

Fattoria Svetoni is located at Via Umbria, n. 63, 53045 Montepulciano SI.

11. Montemercurio

Inspired by Greek-Roman mythology – particularly the God of Mercury – Montemercurio opened in 2007 and began selling wine four years later.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Montemercurio (@montemercurio_winery)

Although this winery is relatively new compared to the others on this list, the winery actually has a longer timeline dating back to the 1960s, when the first three hectares (7+ acres) of the vineyard were planted.

Specializing in Vino di Nobile Montepulciano, Montemercurio implements a strict manual harvesting policy to best maintain the integrity of their wines. The winery offers wine tours that incorporate a visit to the vineyards and cellar with a tasting.

Montemercurio is located at Via di Totona, 25, 53045 Montepulciano SI.

12. La Braccesca

La Braccesca Estate was named after the farm that once stood in its place. It’s one of seven impressive estates/properties located throughout Italy.

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These estates include: Marchese Antinori Montenisa Estate, Aldobrandesca Farm, The Mortelle, The Braccesa, the Monteloro Estate, Tormaresca, and Prunotto.

La Braccesca encompasses 1255 acres, and vineyards cover 840 of them. The estate is known for its red wines, including Cervognano, Santa Pia, and Gracciano.

Here, you can join a personalized tour through the vineyards and the wine-aging cellar followed by a tasting of the wine.

But wine is only the beginning! La Braccesca is also renowned for its wonderful culinary experiences. In fact, guests will also enjoy a delicious lunch as part of the tasting experience.

Plus, the estate also offers cooking classes where you can learn all of the behind-the-scenes techniques of making pici, the delicious local pasta.

La Braccesa is located at Via Stella di Valiano 10, 53045 Montepulciano SI.

13. Cantine Dei

Dating back to 1964, Azienda Agricola Dei Maria Caterina ( Cantine Dei ) was started by Alibrando Dei in Bossona. In 1991, Alibrando’s daughter, Caterina Dei, took over to continue the mission of protecting Vino Nobile di Montepucliano by respecting the environment in which its produced.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cantine Dei (@cantinedei)

A tour and tasting at Cantine Dei will be an experience to remember. The tour will begin with a descent into the wine cellar for the history of the Dei family. Next, you’ll get an overview of the production process for the estate’s Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Of course, the grand finale will be the wine tasting!

In addition to the winery, Cantine Dei is home to La Carliana Farmhouse, which consists of three apartments – one inside the main structure and the others within the barn.

A rustic stay here is sure to quench the spirit and round out your Tuscan experience.

Cantine Dei is located at Via di Martiena, 35, 53045 Montepulciano SI.

14. Podere Le Bèrne

Podere Le Bèrne is an estate winery and farm founded in 1960 by the Natalini family. With nearly 46 acres of land – and almost 25 of those acres occupied by vines – the estate’s been producing wine since 1995.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le berne (@podere_le_berne)

Podere Le Bèrne specializes in Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, Rosso di Montepulciano DOC, and Vin Santo di Montepulciano DOC.

Le Bèrne has been proud to offer an inviting on-site tasting room since 2004. Here, wines can be enjoyed and paired with the winery’s own EVOO.

In addition to wine, Podere Le Bèrne also produces a modest amount of EVOO with a delicate flavor.

Podere Le Bèrne is located at Via di Poggio Golo, 7, 53045 Cervognano SI.

15. Metinella

The newest of the wineries in Montepulciano on this list, Metinella opened in 2015.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Metinella (@metinella)

Spanning nearly 52 acres (almost 45 of which are vineyards), Metinella produces classic wines of the region, including Montepulciano DOCG, DOC, and IGT. In addition, the winery dabbles in a few other lesser-known varieties.

The winery underwent a full restoration in 2016, including a renovation of the cellar and oak barrels, realignment and replanting of the vineyards, and the replacement of several supportive structures.

Metinella offers three distinct wine tours:

• Allier Tour – This 30-minute experience includes a tasting of 3 wines (one white & two reds).
• 90-Minute Oak Tour – This guided experience provides a tour of the production facilities, including the vineyard, fermentation room, and aging room. It will conclude with a tasting of three wines paired with cured meats, pecorino cheese, Tuscan bread, and the winery’s own EVOO.
• 45-Minute Oak Tour (Plus Lunch) – Similar to the 90-minute oak tour, this experience also includes a tour of the production facilities. In addition, it includes a tasting of four wines along with a four-course lunch.

Metinella is located at Via Fontelellera, 21, 53045 Montepulciano SI.

Guided Tours of the Best Wineries in Montepulciano

While visiting these Montepulciano wineries independently can be fun, perhaps you’d prefer more of a guided experience on your first visit.

If that’s the case, there are a number of Montepulciano wine tours to choose from. Most of these tours include a visit to Montepulciano’s most historic cellars – and all include the grand finale of a wine tasting!

I hope you’ve enjoyed uncovering some of the best wineries in Montepulciano. Again, visiting at least one winery is a must while you’re in the area!

Have you ever visited one of these vineyards in Montepulciano? If not, which one is calling your name? Let me know in the comments below!

Looking for more Tuscan countryside inspiration? Check out my other posts on this magical region:

• 25 Most Romantic Wine Hotels in Tuscany
• 20 Awesome Things to Do in Montepulciano
• Breathtaking Landscapes of Tuscany: An Essential Photo Guide
• 20 Best Day Trips from Florence (Within Two Hours)

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Top 5 best wineries in Montepulciano – guide to wine tasting

Montepulciano

For a lot of people, when thinking of a vacation to Italy, one of the first images that come to mind is drinking some fine wine under the setting sun. Well, the region of Tuscany is particularly popular with the hobby of wine tasting and has a terrific reputation for its wine culture. This prestigious reputation can be found all throughout Tuscany , with the hilltop haven of Montepulciano being no exception.

Known for its sweeping vineyard-scapes, breathtaking scenery, and abundance of Medieval architecture, history, and culture, Montepulciano is truly unmatched when it comes to this unique combination of attributes. A traveler could argue that there is no better place in all of Europe than the things that Tuscany has on offer.  

Wine tasting tours and wine tasting, in general, are among the most popular and beloved activities enjoyed in the region. Every year, thousands of tourists and Italian locals come to the quiet suburb of Montepulciano to indulge in some of Italy’s best wines. Therefore, grab your wine glasses and get ready to take a swirl through some of the best wineries in Montepulciano , a review of their repertoires, and the full range of services they provide.

(This article contains 5 wineries in Montepulciano, which are best in our subjective opinion. The order of the wineries is not related to the quality they offer. Every winery has its pros and cons, so choose the one based on your personal preferences.)

Azienda Agricola Ercolani

The first stop on the list is the Azienda Agricola Ercolani winery and vineyard. A family-run tour going back generations, the Ercolani family and their guided tour through the historic streets of Montepulciano is one of the best wine-tasting experiences the leisurely town has at its disposal.

As well as being a highly-respected winery selling some of the finest wines in all of Italy, Azienda Agricola Ercolani also offers a variety of other products such as jams, honey, olive oils, pasta sauces, cured meats, and more , as well as several other services that come highly recommended. From free tasting for groups of up to 100 people to guided tours of their farm, seasonal hunts for extravagant truffles to an exploration of the underground city.

Located pretty much right in the heart of the town between the Palazzo Bucelli and the Palazzo Avignonesi historical palaces, Azienda Agricola Ercolani provides a unique way for you to uncover Montepulciano through the region’s greatest wines. The best way to book one of these unforgettable experiences is through Azienda Agricola Ercolani’s website or to call directly.

If you decide to buy some of their wines but don’t want to carry them on your trip, they can deliver wines to your city. Also, you can visit the webshop on their website and order more in the future if you want. This winery is open seven days a week from 9:00 AM (9:00 hours) in the morning to 10:00 PM (22:00 hours) at night. Some of the tours are season-specific, meaning they are not available all year long, so keep this in mind and check their website before booking anything.

• Location: Via di Gracciano nel Corso 80-82
• Website: ErcolaniMontepulciano.it
• Distance: 650 meters (0.4 miles) from Piazza Grande in Montepulciano
• Phone: +39 057 871 6764

Cantina De Ricci

A visit to the wine cellars at Cantina De Ricci is one of the best ways to feel as though you have time-traveled right back to Renaissance-era Tuscany. Its ancient bricks, high-arched ceilings, candelabra lighting, iron furnishings, and vintage barrels really paint a picture of how wine has been curated for hundreds, if not thousands of years.

On a visit to Cantina De Ricci’s winery, before enjoying a glass of the sweet domestic wine, you will sample the assemblage available as you learn all about the intriguing history of the winery itself , the origin of its name and founding, as well as the secrets behind the signature flavor of its wines. Not only does this provide context to what you will be tasting, but all greatly adds to the overall experience by knowing the story and spirit behind the wine.

Speaking of the wine, Cantina De Ricci supplies an affluent array of top-quality “De Ricci” brand wines. For those looking for a classic blend inspired by Tuscan tradition, Il Severe Igt Tuscany is a well-balanced choice. If you are looking for something sweeter and more indulgent, both the Red of Montepulciano Doc and the Vino Nobile of Montepulciano come highly recommended , and if you are looking for something different altogether, the Sansy Igt Tuscany Rose is light, fresh, and has a hint of “French” infusion.

Cantina De Ricci is open all year round, and tours are scheduled by reservation only . To book a tour at the winery that has been dubbed “must do” and “must try” by several travel review sites, check out Cantina De Ricci’s website or call their official number and book your tasting today.

• Location: Via Ricci 13
• Website: CantinaDeRicci.it
• Distance: 100 meters (0.1 miles) from Piazza Grande in Montepulciano
• Phone: +39 057 875 7166

Cantina Fattoria Della Talosa

Located in the center of the old town Montepulciano, the Cantina Fattoria Della Talosa’s main cellar can trace its roots all the way back to the 16th century . The hallowed, bricked passages and haunting magic that fills the airs of these cellars can be felt by all who visit them. Furthermore, this vintage feeling also comes through the taste of Cantina Fattoria Della Talosa’s bottles.

Like the other wineries based in the town, on the wine-tasting tour at Cantina Fattoria Della Talosa, you will be led down into the murky bowels hidden underneath the town , where you will be met with beautifully crafted arched hallways and wine barrels so giant, they have to be seen to be believed. Talosa brand wines are some of the most acclaimed in all of Montepulciano and would make an excellent gift for yourself or a loved one.

Their bottles range from as little as 20 euros to around 400 euros for the highest yields. Like any good wine tour, Talosa also provides accompaniments of meats and cheese to compliment the wine-tasting experience . It provides a shorter guided tour than some of the others presented on this list.

Therefore, this winery might be better suited to those looking to experience an authentic Italian wine-tasting tour without committing a full day to it . To book a tour, you should check out their official website or call them via phone. If neither of these booking ways suits you, then book a tour in their store in Montepulciano. The winery is open every day from 10:30 AM (10:30 hours) to 7:00 PM (19:00 hours).  

• Location: Via Talosa 8
• Website: Talosa.it
• Phone: +39 057 875 7929

Gattavecchi Winery

The Gattavecchi Winery is somewhat different from the others on the list in that there is also a restaurant located on the premises. With medieval cellars and views of the beautiful Montepulciano valleys from its windows, the Gattavecchi Winery is your one-stop shop for both top-quality Tuscan wine and authentic Italian cuisine .

Also known as the Cantina Gattavecchi, a tour with this particular wine-making establishment will take you both through the old town cellars as well as a trip to the La Famiglia Gattavecchi vineyard, where you will see the workings of the family-run winery first hand and enjoy all the wine produced by the family, with some specialty cheeses to match.

If seeing the sights of the cellars and gardens isn’t enough, why not also book a table for lunch or dinner at the Osteria La Cucina Di Lilian, the restaurant also owned by the family located in the old Santa Maria Dei Servi Monastery. Here you can enjoy many wonderful Tuscan-inspired dishes prepared by Lilian Gattavecchi to help soak up all that wine you just drank, or order another bottle of Gattavecchi’s finest and keep the party going.

The family even offers cooking classes on request . This amazing winery is open every day except Wednesdays from 11:00 AM (11:00 hours) to 6:00 PM (18:00 hours). The winery itself is situated on the outskirts of the old town, just outside the city walls, not too far from the Fortezza Medicea. To book a tour or reserve a table at the restaurant, talk to the staff inside or call directly through the phone.

• Location: Via di Collazzi 74
• Website: no website
• Distance: 400 meters (0.2 miles) from Piazza Grande in Montepulciano
• Phone: +39 057 875 7110

Manvi Winery

The last stop on our list, but certainly not the least, is the Manvi vineyard and family-owned farm. Located roughly 15 – 20 minutes outside of the town walls, Manvi Winery is arguably the most opulent tour in terms of atmosphere and visuals and is perfect for those looking for a quieter getaway away from the commotion and hubbub of the town.

Manvi also offers a small bed and breakfast service for an all-inclusive experience, as well as a private swimming pool and yoga classes on-site with an experienced teacher from India. As far as the tour goes, Manvi is a relatively young vineyard but nevertheless still provides an authentic wine-tasting experience that has been met with many 5-star reviews online. Manvi’s vineyard is over 20 acres in circumference and is said to produce over 30,000 bottles of wine each year.

Some of their wines include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon medleys, as well as several white grape blends. Manvi is also a certified organic winery , so you can be assured of the finest quality despite the vineyard’s lack of heritage. Manvi Winery and Vineyard are open all year round, and booking can be made at their website or by calling on the phone. Rooms can also be booked through hotel booking websites and are usually listed at around 130 – 150 euros per night. 

• Location: Via Villa Bianca 13/15
• Website: Manvi.it
• Distance: 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) from Piazza Grande in Montepulciano
• Phone: +39 392 746 4727

Where to find the best wineries in Montepulciano?

Montepulciano is a town mainly known for delicious and high-quality wine production, so you won’t have problems finding wineries both in the town and nearby . If you are in Montepulciano only for a day, pick one of the well-known wineries with a long heritage and go wine tasting, as it is an experience in itself. If you are staying in this lovely town for a few days at least, you can consider going to one of the surrounding wineries and vineyards where you can try various wines, see wine production, and walk among grape vines.

This type of experience is also better for those looking for a more personal wine tasting away from the hustle and bustle of the town. Getting to Montepulciano and not trying local wines would be such a miss , so whichever winery you choose, we guarantee that you will have a memorable and unique experience.

Facts about Montepulciano wineries

• Vino Nobile di Montepulciano : This delicious red wine is one of the most famous Tuscany wines. Almost all wineries in the region around Montepulciano offer tour and tasting of this fantastic wine. It is known as one of the best wines across the globe, so consider buying it as a souvenir. 
• Tasting Rooms and Wine Bars : Popular Montepulciano vineyards and wineries offer inviting tasting rooms and charming wine bars where you can try a great number of different wines. These wine tastings are great if you want to try Vino Nobile, Rosso di Montepulciano, or some white wines before buying them. 
• Montepulciano Wine Tour : You can even visit wineries of Montepulciano to find out all the secrets of winemaking. Montepulciano winery tours are great for those who want to witness the meticulous process of turning grapes into great wines and gain insights into the traditions. They usually include tour of the cellar and tastings of the most popular wines. Also, the tour is very useful for those who have some more detailed questions about the wineries in Montepulciano. 
• Picturesque Views : Many wineries are strategically located, offering panoramic views of the Montepulciano countryside. Therefore, wine lovers will also enjoy breathtaking views while a wine-tasting adventure.
• Wine Shops : As you already know, wine in Montepulciano is the most popular thing among tourists. It is no wonder that Montepulciano has so many wine shops. Take a piece of Montepulciano home with you by visiting one of them and buying your favorite bottle or two.
• Rich History : Tuscany is, since ancient times, a popular wine region, so winemaking in Montepulciano dates back centuries. Montepulciano’s wine heritage even traces back to the Etruscans and Romans. Most families with cellars produce wine throughout their whole lives, and this legacy is evident in its exceptional quality and taste.

Check out more articles about Montepulciano:

• Things to do in Montepulciano
• Best restaurants in Montepulciano

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The best wineries in Montepulciano

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Are you searching for tips or advice on wineries in Montepulciano?

Below we have provided a list of the best wineries in Montepulciano open for visitors. You can find some reputable wineries near Gracciano and Sain'Albino, where you can experience wines in a fairytale atmosphere. You will also find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the wineries in Montepulciano. We hope you will discover what makes the region special and enjoy your exploration of reputable Montepulciano. All wineries and vineyards in the region have cellar door sales and a great selection of wine tourism activities.

Read more about Montepulciano

Get more information about Montepulciano wine subregion located in Tuscany , Italy . Explore other nearby subregions, like Valdichiana and Cortona to discover tips and suggestions for your next trip.

Discover more wineries near Montepulciano

Check out the best Wineries in Tuscany . If you are looking for more nearby wineries to visit, you can explore Wineries in Valdichiana or Wineries in Cortona .

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THE 10 BEST Montepulciano Wineries & Vineyards

Wineries & vineyards in montepulciano.

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• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Cooking Classes
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• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Honeymoon spot
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• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Icario Winery

2. Azienda Agricola Ercolani

3. Cantina de' Ricci

4. Avignonesi

5. Az. Agr. Poliziano

6. Contucci Cantine

7. Gattavecchi Winery

8. La Braccesca

9. Cantina Fattoria della Talosa

10. Boscarelli

11. Azienda Agricola Canneto

12. Villa Sant'Anna

13. Cantina Crociani

14. Manvi Winery

15. BINDELLA tenuta Vallocaia

16. Fattoria Pulcino

17. Montemercurio

18. Podere Le Bèrne

19. Palazzo Vecchio Winery

20. Vinoteca Terra Toscana

21. Tanagatta, Azienda Agricola

22. Azienda Agricola Romeo

23. Az. Maria Caterina Dei

24. Podere Della Bruciata Winery

25. Azienda Luteraia

26. Tenuta Santavenere - Casa Vinicola Triacca

27. Metinella

28. Borgo DiVino

29. Cantina Priorino

30. Villa Talosa

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TOP 10 Wineries to Visit in Montepulciano

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What are the best wineries to visit in Montepulciano? Discover a list of the best wineries to visit in Montepulciano, also with accommodation and restaurant options. The wineries are recommended for the quality of the guided tour and tasting. INDICE

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VINO NOBILE DI MONTEPULCIANO

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is produced from a minimum of 70% Sangiovese grapes to which complementary vines such as Merlot, Cabernet, Mammolo, Canaiolo, and Colorino can be added.

The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano boasts a great historicity: its tradition dates back to the Middle Ages, and it was later the first Italian win to boast the prestigious DOCG appellation in 1980.

Many historic wineries of Montepulciano can be visited in the city center, including Contucci, Talosa, De’ Ricci, Crociani Gattavecchi, Fattoria Pulcino, Fanetti, Ercolani, Fanetti.

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Discover an updated list of the most beautiful wineries to visit in Montepulciano.

Led by Andrea and his nephew Federico, Le Berne is a family-run company in Montepulciano, widely recognized among the finest in the appellation for its artisanal and traditional style of wines.

Winery tours offer an authentic experience to delve into the atmosphere of Montepulciano, exploring the vineyards and tasting wines in a tasting room with a panoramic view.

Tel: 0578 767328 [email protected] www.leberne.it

Poliziano is the symbolic winery of Montepulciano as well as the first to have created a cru wine of Nobile di Montepulciano with the iconic ‘Asinone’. Among the best red wines in Italy.

Definitely one of the best wineries to visit in Montepulciano to understand the enological complexity that Vino Nobile di Montepulciano can achieve.

www.carlettipoliziano.com +39 0578 738 171

DE’ RICCI

Ricci is a historic winery from the 1300s located in the center of Montepulciano. The structure is very organized for guided tours of the winery. To be counted among the best historic wineries of Montepulciano.

www.cantinadericci.it +39 0578 757166

Contucci is a historic winery (producing wines since 1700) located in the heart of Montepulciano. The visit and the wine tasting is possible every weekday and public holiday.

Undoubtedly one of the best historic winery to visit in Montepulciano.

www.contucci.it Phone +39 0578 757006

Talosa is a historic winery dating back to the 1500s located in the center of Montepulciano. A visit to the winery with tasting by reservation is recommended. Surely among the best wineries of Montepulciano

www.talosa.it 0578 757929

Canneto is a Montepulciano winery located a few steps from the center of Montepulciano.

The winery boasts a breathtaking panoramic terrace where various options of wine tastings are organized with small snacks and cheeses. Deservedly among the best wineries to visit in Montepulciano.

www.canneto.com 0578 757737

Surely one of the best wineries to visit in Montepulciano cannot miss Dei, one of the most famous and renowned wineries of Montepulciano. The winery, located a few km from the center of Montepulciano, has a very suggestive travertine structure and is embellished with sculptures and works of art. To be counted among the best historic wineries of Montepulciano for architectural beauty.

www.cantinedei.it +39 0578 716878

FATTORIA SVETONI

Fattoria Svetoni, located in the hamlet of Gracciano a few km from the centre, is an elegant winery, restaurant and wine resort in Montepulciano.

To be counted among the best wineries of Montepulciano with the possibility of overnight stays.

www.fattoriasvetoni.it 0578 775751

Crociani belongs to the historic wineries of Montepulciano, located in the center of the town.

The 1300 structure hosts guided tours and tastings in the winery. Undoubtedly among the best wineries to visit in Montepulciano.

www.crociani.it +39 0578 757919

BORGO TRE ROSE

Located in Valiano, a few km from the center of Montepulciano, Borgo Tre Rose is not only a winery, but also a wine resort with a restaurant, ideal for events and ceremonies.

Undoubtedly among the best wineries to visit in Montepulciano.

www.borgotrerose.it 0578.72491

The Boscarella winery located in Cervognano is one of the most awarded and internationally recognized historic wineries of Montepulciano. Deservedly among the best wineries to visit in Montepulciano.

www.poderiboscarelli.com 0578 767608

CANTINE DI MONTEPULCIANO WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF OVERNIGHT STAY

• Fattoria Svetoni
• Borgo Tre Rose
• Villa Nottola
• Le Buche (20 km da Montepulciano.

TUSCAN FOOD AND WINE PAIRING

What to combine with Vino Nobile di Montepulciano?

Tuscanyis rich in culinary history, anecdotes and traditions that make this region an Italian gastronomic scene of great interest. A land of gastronomic excellence such as as Chianina and Maremmana breed beef, the Cinta Senese pig but also game such as duck,hare and wild boar.

Tuscan bread is a symbol of Tuscan gastronomy and is distinguished by the lack of salt, so much so that it is called sciocco bread or sciapo. Starting from the reuse of stale bread many iconic dishes of poor Tuscan cooking are born:pappa al pomodoro and ribollita, but also panzanella and Maremma acquacotta.

Among the appetizers, the pork-based dishes are very popular. Typical Tuscan antipasto with cold cuts, such as Tuscan ham, finocchiona and soprassata,rigatino and buristo, strictly accompanied by Tuscan liver crouton.

The first courses are generally based on complex sauces often based on game and white meats such as the very famous pappardelle with wild boar orhare ragout. Other very characteristic Tuscan first courses areMugello potato tortelli,Maremma tortelli,pici all’aglioneand gnudi.

Scottiglia of wild boar Among the second courses to try in Tuscany, we find the famous Fiorentina steak, a very thick and tastyChianinaorMaremmanacut of meat to be cooked on the grill or the grill and served rare. Among the meat-based main courses, there are countless stews and braised meats such as asPeposo dell’Impruneta, the Sangiovannese stew meat, the Boar Scottiglia.

Iconic dishes of Tuscan cuisine such as asTrippa alla fiorentinaandLampredotto are also born from beef, but also the tongue, the cheek and the livers, all dishes that can be appreciated in the classic Tuscan street food.

Not least are the Tuscan soups and stews, generally with black cabbage, but also the beans all’uccelletto, inevitable in the typical Tuscan taverns.

On the Tyrrhenian coast, on the other hand, we find fish-based specialties, such as Cacciucco alla Livornese or Maremma-style cod, as well as a passion for fried rockfish and shellfish.

Finally, there are many desserts of the Tuscan tradition. Among these, we remember the cantucci di Prato which go perfectly with the Tuscan vin santo, or other typical sweets such as the Florentine Schiacciata, the Schiacciata all’uva, the Brigidini, the Sienese panforte and many others.

What are the best wineries to visit in Montepulciano?

What are the best wineries to visit in Montepulciano? Choosing is a difficult undertaking, which in any case is inevitably subject to the limits of a subjective opinion, which as such, by definition, is deficient and arbitrary.

We have simply compiled our own list of favorite interpretations according to our evaluations. However, it remains essential to underline that wine is not born to be prestigious, exhibited or flaunted.

But to get excited and be shared in a genuine way with the people we love, bonding to contingent situations and unrepeatable and intimate moments of our lives.

Therefore, we invite you to visit wineries and get to know the producers who produce wines in their uniqueness, so that you can independently discover and choose the wine that canbe counted among your personal favorite wines for you. If you have had the patience to read up to here, I thank you for your attention, but now is the time to fill the glasses and sever the distant hopes, and therefore:

Cheers, Salute, Santé

Jean Marco Palmieri

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Montepulciano wine tour: Wineries and restaurants

• Wineries to visit

From a region about 45 minutes east of Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is Brunello’s younger sibling, softer, more playful, with a mischievous spring in its step.

Montepulciano:  How to get there

• Fly into Florence or Pisa airports.
• Drive from Florence to Montepulciano in about two hours; Pisa to Montepulciano takes about half an hour longer. The nearest city is Siena, which is an hour’s drive.

Montepulciano w ineries to visit

The way to Avignonesi is along an avenue of cypress trees leading to Le Capezzine, the heart of the 200-hectare estate comprising vineyards across Montepulciano and Cortona.

Avignonesi. Credit: avignonesi.it

A beautiful brick facade beckons you into the Cellar Door, a stylishly modern yet respectfully rustic loft conversion where you can taste wines by the glass – try the Grandi Annate, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2012, all wild roses and plums, and silky soft in the mouth.

Take the wine lover’s tour to explore the organic vines, maturation cellars and Avignonesi’s famous Vinsantaia – where its vin santos are aged in 50-litre caratelli oak casks – before sitting down to a four-course, wine-paired meal.

Do not even consider leaving without having meditated over the legendary vin santo, a hymn to the heavens.

January – Febraury: closed, March – April: Monday-Friday 10am-6pm, May: Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 12pm–6pm, June – September: Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm, Sunday 12pm–6pm, October: Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 12pm–6pm, November – December: Monday-Friday 10am-5pm.

Half an hour away on the other side of Montepulciano is an historic winery named after the town’s most illustrious Renaissance poet. Poliziano  has been producing sleek Vino Nobile since 1961, a trait matched in the design-led Angelo Ambrogini tasting lounge, which has a marble bar, parquet floors and wavy wood wine shelving. Never a winery to sit back, this spring Poliziano opened a stylish enoteca in the old centre of Montepulciano, in the palazzo where the great poet once lived.

But the Montepulciano Stazione cellar tour still remains a firm favourite.

Open year-round, it’s a chance to see the ecological maturation cellar, whose temperature is controlled by solar power, as well as the old bottle archive showcasing Poliziano’s most prestigious vintages and wines – the likes of Sangiovese selezione Asinone and IGT Le Stanze, a classy Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blend.

Winery tours arranged by appointment. 

La Dogana enoteca/ Palazzo Vecchio

A along the Via Lauretana Nord brings you to La Dogana enoteca , the wine bar of cantina Palazzo Vecchio   (pictured top) . It’s a striking building, whose central window frames the Val di Chiana plain as far as the eye can see.

The Sbernadori family serves up zero-mile valley specialities such as pici all’aglione, fat spaghetti scented with the mildest of garlic. Watch the sunset at Valiano with delicious nibbles and Palazzo Vecchio’s own Vino Nobile.

Contact for winery visits. 

Montepulcino: When to visit

The crowds flock to Montepulciano town on the last Sunday in August for the annual Bravìo delle Botti, a gruelling spectacle in which muscular men attempt to push heavy wine barrels up the cobblestone streets.

Those in the know often prefer to head for the more placid Festa di San Lorenzo in nearby Valiano in early to mid-August for flower displays and food.

But the picturesque Montepulciano area, dotted with its 75-plus wineries, is a joy to visit at any time, from spring to autumn.

Go to the next page to see Helen’s Montepulciano restaurant recommendations

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14 Montepulciano Wineries to Visit in Tuscany

If you’re visiting Tuscany, chances are that you’ll be stopping by Montepulciano, one of the cutest towns in Tuscany, with beautiful architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and many exceptional Montepulciano wineries to visit.

We’ve been to Tuscany many times and I would rank Montepulciano up there with the best small towns to explore. We wanted to check out the main sites in town, but also wanted to mix in stops at a few wine tasting rooms along the way. Turns out that’s very easy. There are many.

Not only are there tasting rooms (the actual vineyards and wineries are mostly located outside of town), there are also plenty of wine bars where you can do tastings. So even if you don’t get out into the countryside, you can try all kinds of wines coming from the region without leaving town.

Of course, I don’t encourage skipping the countryside. The experience at the wineries themselves is way more magnificent and enchanting than the tasting rooms, but maybe a little of both would be the best way to go.

For that reason, I’ve listed the wine tasting rooms to stop at in the historic center first, then gone on to list the outlying wineries that you can visit in the region of Montepulciano.

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Planning your trip to montepulciano.

• Rent a car from the Florence airport through Discover Cars for the best deals.

Where to Stay in Montepulciano:

• Il Corso ⇒ “A beautiful place in the old city. The house was well maintained and had an old world charm to it.”
• Il Buonumore ⇒ “Excellent location in the center of Montepulciano. spotlessly clean, lovely host”

Best Tours and Experiences in Montepulciano:

• Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Wine Tour
• Cesarine: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Montepulciano
• Wine Tour Ebike Experience

Table of Contents

About Montepulciano

You can park on the outskirts of town and walk in at Porta al Prato (one of the two main gates) to the pedestrian-only historic center where it’s easy to spend a few hours walking around, admiring the buildings, popping into shops, and sipping wine.

It was in the 16th century that Montepulciano reached its most magnificent self, under the powerful Medici family. It’s still showing off today with its ancient city walls and bastions. The heart of the city is one main long, wide street called the Corso, with alleys and narrow streets jutting out from there. A walk up the Corso will lead you to all of the wineries on this list.

About the Wine

Montepulciano produces two distinct types of wine: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Rosso di Montepulciano.

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a red wine made primarily from the Sangiovese grape, locally known as Prugnolo Gentile. The wine is required to be aged for a minimum of two years, with at least one year spent in oak barrels. It has a deep ruby color with aromas of dark fruit, leather, and tobacco, and flavors of black cherry, plum, and spice. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is known for its complexity and elegance and is considered one of Italy’s top wines.

Rosso di Montepulciano is also a red wine made from the Sangiovese grape, but it is aged for a shorter period than Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, typically six months to a year. It has a lighter body and is more approachable than its more famous counterpart, with flavors of red fruit and spice.

Both Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Rosso di Montepulciano are produced in limited quantities and are highly regarded by wine enthusiasts around the world. It’s an honor to be in the area that produces this special wine, and that’s why we love wine tasting in Montepulciano.

A great way to experience some wine tasting in Montepulciano is to go on a guided wine tour. If you want to get out of town into the actual vineyards, but don’t want to drive yourself and make all the plans, you should book a group tour. We enjoyed this tour , which is 3 1/2 hours, with visits to two wineries in the Montepulciano countryside.

Book Here: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Wine Tour – Meet the producers

Wineries in Montepulciano | The Best of Italy

Montepulciano is one of the best regions in Europe for wine . You’ll not only get to try the wine from its origins, you’ll also get to duck into ancient cellars and witness thousands of years worth of wine making. It’s unique and special.

Just remember that Montepulciano receives many visitors and because of that, the experience at the tasting rooms isn’t always up to par. I like to think of it as the tourist affect. Quality goes down when the masses come in. I’m only saying this to temper your expectations.

Map of Wineries Inside Town

Cantina Ercolani

One of the first wine tastings you’ll come upon when you walk in the Porta al Prato gate is Cantina Ercolani . This family started diving into wine in the 1940s. They are not shy about ushering people in, and once you’re in the tasting begins in earnest. They have wine, cheese, meats, vin santo, oil, truffles, salami and rosehip berries.

You can go on a cellar tour to their Underground City, and try the wine with other local products at the counter. They are also happy to help you ship anything home that you can’t live without.

At the other end of the Corso, near the second gate, Porta delle Farine, you’ll find Contucci Winery . You can go on a self-guided walking tour of the cellar before you stop in for a wine tasting. It’s not much, but you will get to see the barrels and aging process, in a very old cellar.

They pour a few free tastes in the cellar, or you can go upstairs to their wine bar and buy a glass. We didn’t find the lower level wines to be anything super special, but the more expensive aged wines were great.

If you don’t want to go out to the winery location outside of town, Talosa has a historic cellar in Montepulciano, at Via Talosa 8. Talosa was one of the first wineries in Montepulciano to improve the quality of their wines to elevate the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano appellation to what it is today.

The Talosa Cellar dates back to the 16th century and visiting it is like stepping back time. They will organize guided tours and exclusive tastings by reservation only. You can book on their website . However, you can always stop in the shop to visit the historic cellar, taste and buy their products. 

De’ Ricci

Cantina De Ricci has a really cool 500-year-old underground wine cellar that you can visit. You can get to Cantine De’ Ricci from two entrances at Via Ricci or Via di Collazzi. Via Ricci is located in the highest part of the city, near Piazza Grande and the cellar is accessed via a spectacular brick staircase. What lies ahead is even more magical. Be sure to book your tour ahead of time. The fee was around $30, but well worth it for the tour and tasting at the end.

Map of Wineries Outside Town

Specialties: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Vin Santo, Occhio di Pernice

Avignonesi is a large, biodynamic winery in Montepulciano and one of Tuscany’s finest. This organic wine producer prioritizes sustainable viticulture in an effort to preserve nature.

You’ll love their wine tours, which offer premium affairs. Their “Cellar Door” and “Grand Experience” dining events are visitors’ favorites for their mouth-watering platters and gourmet lunches.

The emphasis is on vastly enriching your wine knowledge. One of the best lessons detail how their highly revered Vin Santo (a dessert wine) is made.

Hours: March: Monday-Friday 10 am — 5 pm | April-October: Monday-Sunday 10 am — 6 pm | November-December: Monday-Friday 10 am — 5 pm

Location: Via Colonica 1, 53045 Montepulciano

Specialties: Poliziano Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Asinone DOCG

Thanks to Montepulciano vineyards and Poliziano, a thriving Carletti family-run winery, you can find the one-of-a-kind Asinone Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wines. They’re rated among the best Italian red wines.

Poliziano winery tours are all about the science of making Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wines, particularly their Asinone — which you’ll find in many local wine bars. The winery also produces crisp Maremma wines, loved for their fusion of blackberry, cherry, and white chocolate.

Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 am — 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm — 6 pm

Location: Via Fontago 1, 53045 Montepulciano Stazione (Siena)

Poderi Boscarelli

Specialty: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

Boscarelli is one of the most visited wineries in the Tuscany region. It has been making world-renowned wines since the 1960s, specializing in the pride and joy of Montepulciano, Vino Nobile.

Fuelled by a family’s passion, the winery is traditional, rustic, unpretentious, yet endearing. A visit to Boscarelli is a real wine farm experience. Their star wine, the Vino Nobile, has been voted by the Wine Spectator as the 39th best wine in the world. They also provide delectable Merlots from Cortona’s supreme vineyards.

Location: Poderi Boscarelli, Via di Montenero 24, 53045 Montepulciano (Siena)

Specialties: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Vino Nobile Riserva Grape varieties: Canaiolo, Grechetto, Merlot, Sangiovese

The Jacorossi family, through Talosa, has been on a mission to create the area’s finest quality wines since 1972. And they’ve achieved that goal with Talosa.

Wine tastings take place in the 16th-century wine cellar. Elevate the Talosa experience and stay over in their superb countryside villa. You’ll relax and enjoy a peaceful retreat in blissful surroundings.

Hours: 10:30 am — 7 pm daily Location: Via Talosa 8, 53045 Montepulciano (Siena)

Specialties: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Rosso di Montepulciano DOC, Rosso Toscana IGT Grape varieties: Cabernet, Merlot, Pinots Grigio & Nero, Sangiovese

This is one of the most exciting wineries to visit in Montepulciano because Icario brings together two wonderful worlds: wine and art. See, in addition to its 49 acres (20 hectares) of vineyard, the winery also has an art gallery.

The winery’s beautiful B&B is ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape in one of the most enchanting Italian hideaways. Enjoy a wine tasting and a special lunch prepared with the best local products.

Hours: Monday–Friday 10 am — 1 pm and 2 pm — 6 pm | Saturday & Sunday Reservations only Location: Via delle Pietrose 2, I-53045 Montepulciano (Siena)

Specialty: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Grape varieties: Canaiolo, Malvasia, Trebbiano, Sangiovese

This exemplary Montepulciano winery has been producing the best of Italy’s classic DOCG-certified Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wines since 1921. Vino Nobile has helped put Tuscany and Italy on the map for its extraordinary wine production. When it is DOCG-certified, this means the highest quality is guaranteed.

This is why Fanetti, located on the scenic Tenuta Sant’Agnese Estate, prides itself on being an organic producer that takes every care to deliver A-grade wine in every single bottle. Wine tastings take place in the Fanetti wine cellars.

Hours: 10 am — 6 pm daily Location: Cantine Fanetti, Tenuta S. Agnese di Fanetti Elisabetta, Via Antica Chiusina 15, 53045 Montepulciano (Siena)

Podere Della Bruciata

Specialty: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Grape varieties: Canaiolo, Colorino, Pugnitello, Sangiovese

Organic Montepulciano wine tasting is yours to enjoy at Podere Della Bruciata — the leaders in artisanal winemaking. They also make Tuscany’s tastiest grappa, olive oil, seasonal jams, and vermouth.

Learn about the precise processes that go into their viniculture. Their methods ensure the highest standards. They are strict on manual harvesting and use natural yeasts (for conditioning). Their aging process uses large barrels and light toasting.

This sustainable-first winery makes around 25,000 bottles each year.

Hours: Not specified Location: Via dei Platani SNC, Sant’Albino, 53045 Montepulciano (Siena)

Croce Di Febo

Specialty: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Grape varieties: Canaiolos Bianco & Nero, Mammolo, Sangiovese, Trebbiano

Croce Di Febo is Tuscany’s Biodynamic Winemaking pioneer, blazing the trail with excellent organically produced wine. The winery is a family-run business that employs artisanal approaches in its processes.

On the low-key 10-acre (4-hectare) vineyard, pruning and harvesting are done by hand. After spontaneous fermentations, non-clarification, non-filtration, and limited sulfur use, the result is a clean wine free from chemical interference.

Property highlights include the Caveau, a wine “museum”, the Amoremio wine shop, and the tremendous on-site villa.

Location: Via di Fontellelera 19/A, 53045 Montepulciano (Siena)

Vecchia Cantina Di Montepulciano

Specialties: Cabernets Franc & Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Vin Santo Grape varieties: Sangiovese

Vecchia Cantina Di Montepulciano winery is one of the oldest and largest in Tuscany that produces top-class, reasonably priced wines. The vineyard estates cover a massive 2471 acres (1000 hectares) from Tuscany to Umbria. 

Montepulciano’s rich soils make it ideal for cultivating quality organic winemaking grapes. Visiting Vecchia Cantina Di Montepulciano is an amazing experience for couples, friends, or large family groups. Make fun memories during an informative guided tour of the old wine cellars and taste the best bottle of “Prugnolo Gentile”.

Location: Via Provinciale 7, 53045, Montepulciano (Siena)

Il Molinaccio Di Montepulciano

Specialties: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, La Spinosa Grape varieties: Sangiovese

Il Molinaccio Di Montepulciano is yet another winery celebrated for using organically cultivated grapes for winemaking. It was born when an old mill was revitalized into the now-successful winery.

If interested in a lengthier Montepulciano stay, add a few nights in the lavish guesthouse that offers elegant accommodations to your Italy itinerary . There’s a saltwater swimming pool for refreshing dips and an on-site restaurant serving scrumptious locally-inspired meals. The wine-pairing dining experiences are a hit too.

Hours: Monday | Sunday 9 am — 5:30 pm Location: Via Antica Chiusina 12, 53045 Montepulciano (Siena)

Feeling Adventurous?

Try a wine tour E-bike experience with wine-tasting at Boscarelli, Il Molinaccio Di Montepulciano, and other selected local wineries.

If you’re based in the sister town of Florence but still want an exclusive Montepulciano experience, the wine-and-cheese-tasting guided tour is ideal. It includes a stop at a Montepulciano winery and is the perfect way to savor a taste of Montepulciano magic.

Tips for the Best Experience

Aim for your trip to marvelous Montepulciano to be an all-inclusive, best-activities-only getaway. These few tips will help ensure that happens:

• Montepulciano wine tours are most exhilarating when the weather is at its finest. For this region, you’ll enjoy a fantastic visit during spring (March-May), summer (June-August), and autumn (September-November). During these months, the landscape is picture-perfect.
• If you’re in the region for more than a week, make the most of your visit to one of the top attractions in Italy .
• In addition to your Montepulciano winery tours, add strolls through the old town center and wine bar hopping to your itinerary. You can also visit Montepulciano’s underground wine cellars.
• Some wineries let you fill up samples to take home. Remember to bring your own bottles during your wine tasting.
• When visiting a winery with accommodation, and if your budget allows, enhance the experience by spending a night or two. Most wineries have gorgeous villas with stylish rooms and modern amenities.
• Tours are often offered in multiple languages, typically English, Italian, French, Portuguese, Spanish, or German. Make sure to specify when booking.

Make your visit to Italy’s picturesque Montepulciano a trip filled with rich cultural activities and outstanding culinary experiences. One of the best ways to do that is a Montepulciano wine tour, tasting some of the most divine wines in the world.

Italy has so much to offer. Stunning holiday locations, magnificent historical landmarks, and delicious food are just some of what you can expect when you journey into its many gems.

Another Italian adventure is always around the corner, so grab our Italy travel guide when you’re ready to explore more of this mesmerizing country.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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• Travel Resources

Your 2024 Guide To The Best Wine Tours In Montepulciano

Rolling hills adorned with vineyards and centuries-old winemaking traditions create an unforgettable experience for wine tours in Montepulciano. 

The ideal time to go to Montepulciano is a matter of personal preference. Summer is great if you like warm weather and busy activities. Spring and fall are great times to visit if you want milder weather and fewer people. Winter is a great season for travelers looking for a more laid-back and affordable vacation, but be ready for cooler temperatures. 

Ultimately, visiting Montepulciano is an amazing experience at any time of the year, so don’t hesitate to book wine tours in Montepulciano anytime of the year.

Wine Cellar Tour And Tasting In Montepulciano

Where: Via Ricci, 13, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy

During this small group tour of a Montepulciano wine cellar , you’ll discover the process of making wine .   Thousands of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano hectoliters are stored in rows of massive, immaculately preserved Slavonian oak barrels, honoring the philosophy of great red wines and the regulations governing wood aging. Check out the fossils in these tunnel passages that indicate the place’s very ancient origins.

You’ll sample bruschetta, pecorino cheese, and Tuscan salami with three different local wines.

Winery Tasting Tour In Montepulciano

Where: Valdichiana Living – Piazza Grande, 7, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy

Taste Montepulciano’s finest in this full day tour. You’ll taste wine from three different wineries and lunch is included! Your tour guide will take you on a tour of the Montepulciano wine region , sharing its fascinating history and other regional tid bits that only the locals know. 

As you travel through the Montepulciano region, you will come across three wineries that make Rosso di Montepulciano DOC and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG. Learn about the producers personally, explore their ideologies, and sample their wines in a laid-back setting. Lunch is served at one of the wineries as part of the tour.

Wine Tasting And Lunch In A Montepulciano Winery

Where: Via Talosa, 8, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy

Savor a traditional lunch and a wine tasting in Montepulciano’s sophisticated, historically significant wine cellar. Discover the 16th-century cellar’s underground, home to tunnels and vaults thought to have been built by the Etruscan civilization. Learn the wine-making processes with a knowledgeable sommelier. 

After that, indulge in a special wine-tasting experience with regional food. Local Tuscan goods will be offered with a tasting of four different wines. A traditional Tuscan lunch will be at the end. Various cold meats, cheeses, and a first course of pasta (main dish options vary depending on the season, including lasagna, cannelloni, ribollita, Pappa al Pomodoro, etc.) make up the lunch. Vegetarian alternatives are also available.

During this tour, you’ll taste four Montepulciano wines, including the internationally renowned Rosso di Montepulciano DOCG and Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG.

Discover hidden-gem wineries, learn how to get around, explore Tuscany’s food scene, find the perfect accommodation, experience Tuscany’s stunning landscapes, and much more .

Discover Montepulciano (Includes Vineyard Tour And Wine Tasting)

Where: Porta al Prato – Via di Gracciano nel Corso, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy

During this hour-long walking tour in Montepulciano , check out the main attractions of the medieval hill town, so you can make the most of the rest of your trip. Instead of relying solely on a guidebook, consider hiring a guide who can bring the history of the Tuscan town to life while you explore its charming streets and reach the top of the bell tower (at your own expense) for breathtaking views. 

The Piazza Grande would be the tour’s end point. To have a 360-degree perspective of the Val d’Orcia and the Val di Chiana, climb to the top of the Tower Hall. Includes a glass of wine at the end. Cheers!

Horseback Riding Tour With Tuscan Picnic

With this picturesque horseback riding tour just outside of Montepulciano , you can slow down and take in the breathtaking Tuscan hills of the UNESCO-listed Val d’Orcia and Valdichian, away from the bustle and chaos of the city. 

Meet your riding guide and ride your horse back across the hills of vineyards, pausing to take pictures and enjoy the scenery. Then, unwind with a typical Tuscan dish at an outdoor picnic. An easy guided ride, for all skill levels, is a great way to discover the Tuscan countryside..

6. Al Fresco Lunch And Wine Tasting Under Olive Trees

Where: Agriturismo Sanguineto – Via di Sanguineto, 1, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy

Nothing symbolizes Tuscany more than vineyards and olive trees. Enjoy this al fresco lunch at a farm just outside Montepulciano , beneath the olive trees, while taking in the majesty of the Tuscan hills. 

Take in the views of the Valdichiana and Val d’Orcia landscapes as you unwind over a four-course meal of Tuscan delicacies matched with house wines. Then, you can choose to unwind by the pool or in the spa (additional charge).

The classic Tuscan lunch involves a starter, homemade pasta, meat, and veggies from the kitchen garden prepared in the Tuscan style, and homemade dessert.

Small Group Pasta and Tiramisu Class In Montepulciano

Where: 53045 Montepulciano, Province of Siena, Italy

Cooking classes are my favorite when I travel! They’re the best way to experience the culture. Enjoy a delicious tiramisu dessert after learning to prepare two varieties of homemade Italian pasta in this small-group cooking class in Montepulciano . Join a small, maximum 12-person group for an intimate session at the home of a local Tuscan cook. You’ll have a sample of your masterpieces, Prosecco , and other local wines.

This will be an in-person encounter in a local’s house. Following your reservation, you’ll be sent the complete address for privacy concerns. After your reservation, your class will be arranged. You’ll feel like family when they share their family’s cooking secrets with you.

Italian Wine Tasting With Professional Sommelier In Montepulciano

Where: Osteria del Borgo – Via Ricci, 5, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy

This fun and educational tour is perfect for groups of friends or couples who want to sample wines from all across Italy. You’ll experience a unique, professional, and enthusiastic comparative tasting of wines from the best winemaking regions in the country , all with the intention of creating unforgettable experiences.

Following an initial aperitif on Osteria del Borgo’s well-known patio, a sommelier will lead you on a voyage of wine tasting . You will taste eight excellent Italian wines in a cellar room to learn about the key traits and variations of the best Italian wines, including Vino Nobile, Brunello di Montalcino, Supertuscan, Chianti Classico, Barolo, Amarone, and more! 

9. Tuscan Cooking Class – Traditional 5-Course Menù

Where: Traversa di Montepulciano, 12, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy

In Montepulciano, learn the secrets of Tuscan food by taking a small-group cooking class for a traditional five-course meal . The course is lively and offers a variety of experiences, such as practical cooking, cooking demonstrations, food and wine tastings, and fun with fellow students. Learn how to make two kinds of fresh pasta with sauces, an appetizer, and a famous dessert under the supervision of your host. 

Have fun while picking up cooking skills in a welcoming, comfortable, and familiar setting. Sample premium wines that have been intricately paired and explained – a whole adventure via food and wine will accompany Giacomo, a chef and sommelier who will share his hobbies! 

Giacomo will open the event by discussing his organic farm and his sustainable production methods. He will also highlight the authenticity of the ingredients, which are the cornerstones of his food philosophy. 

Learning to select the best ingredients for your home cooking will be one of your objectives. Once the preparations are complete, you will taste Appetizer Pappardelle, Gnocchi, and the main course (meat and vegetables). You get to enjoy a glass of carefully chosen local wine for every meal. Lastly, you will sample the Tiramisù while unwinding on the patio and taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Wine Tasting With Light Lunch In Montepulciano

Where: Via di Collazzi, 74, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy

Enjoy a traditional Tuscan meal with wine pairings and go on a guided tour of a famous wine cellar. Take an hour or so to explore the complex before settling down for a memorable lunch.

An extensive underground gallery carved out of the tufa lies beneath the Santa Maria dei Servi church, formerly the Convento dei Padri Serviti, founded in 1200. This is the location where Vino Nobile di Montepulciano has matured for generations. A stroll through it reveals a hidden gem: an exquisitely maintained ancient Etruscan tomb. Assorted Bruschette and Cold-Cut Tagliatelle with Tomato Sauce Cantucci are included, with three Tuscan wines paired. You’re droolong aren’t you? We’re not judging.

Wine production in Montepulciano differs from wine production elsewhere. Every aspect of the work is greatly influenced by this place’s history, art, and culture, and each sip of wine is a reminder of the principles that have made this area renowned for generations.

Where To Stay In Montepulciano

When planning a visit to the enchanting town of Montepulciano, one crucial question arises: where to stay in Montepulciano? 

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, this charming hilltop town offers many accommodation options, each promising a unique experience. We’ll navigate the options and help you find the perfect place to call home during your Montepulciano adventure, ensuring your stay is as memorable as the town.

La Terrazza Di Montepulciano

In the center of Montepulciano’s historic center, La Terrazza Di Montepulciano is a cozy hostel located on the main drag, just a short distance from the stunning Piazza Grande.

The hostel was recently restored using local materials. Throughout your stay, Roberto and his spouse will try to assist and offer helpful information.

Vicolo dell’Oste

Situated in the ancient center of Montepulciano, Vicolo dell’Oste is a charming antique building .

The Vicolo’s rooms feature wood floors, wood-beamed ceilings, and LCD TVs. In addition, every apartment has a fully functional kitchenette and is soundproof and the free wifi is pretty decent.

This place is a fifteen-minute drive to the A1 highway exit and the Montepulciano Train Station.

La Casa Dei Nonni

La Casa Dei Nonni is situated near Mount Amiata, Terme di Montepulciano, Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport, Bagni San Filippo, and Bagno Vignoni. This property provides free WiFi, free private parking, grilling amenities, and access to a balcony.

The apartment has two bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an oven and dishwasher in the kitchen, two bathrooms, and views of the garden from the terrace.

Best Wine Tasting In Montepulciano

Wine tours are a true paradise for wine enthusiasts, as presented in some of the best wine tastings in Montepulciano. This captivating Tuscan town, with its rolling vineyards, historic cellars, and passionate winemakers, has an undeniable allure for anyone seeking to savor the essence of Italian wine culture.

Throughout this article, we’ve uncovered the richness of Montepulciano’s wine heritage, from the world-famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano to other exceptional varietals produced with dedication and expertise. We’ve ventured into picturesque wineries, each with its unique character and story, where the art of winemaking is celebrated with every pour.

related articles

Prosecco region, italy: wineries, tours, accommodation, your guide to booking a wine tasting in montepulciano, how to book a wine tasting in tuscany, wine tours in montepulciano faqs, what season is best for wine tours in montepulciano.

The best season for wine tours in Montepulciano is typically spring and early autumn. These months offer mild temperatures, lush vineyards, and fewer crowds. The vines are in full bloom during spring, making it a picturesque time to explore the vineyards. Autumn brings the harvest season, offering a unique opportunity to witness grape picking and participate in wine-making activities.

What should I wear on a wine tour in Montepulciano?

Dress comfortably and casually for a wine tour in Montepulciano. It’s a good idea to wear comfortable walking shoes as you may explore vineyards or cellars. Weather-appropriate attire is essential, so check the forecast before your visit. In the warmer months, light clothing and sun protection are advisable; in cooler months, bring layers to stay warm.

Is Montepulciano worth staying in?

Yes, Montepulciano is certainly worth staying in. The town offers a unique and immersive experience of Tuscan culture, history, and wine. Its charming streets, excellent restaurants, and wine tours make it a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside and other nearby Tuscan towns. Staying in Montepulciano allows you to fully appreciate the local wine culture and take in the breathtaking views.

Is Montepulciano walkable?

Yes, Montepulciano is a walkable town. Its historic center is relatively compact, with narrow, winding streets and charming piazzas. Exploring the town on foot is the best way to soak in its medieval atmosphere and discover its hidden gems. However, keep in mind that Montepulciano is built on a hill, so be prepared for some uphill walking and wear comfortable shoes.

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11 Best Wine Tours in Montepulciano: 2024 Curated Picks

• Isabelle Hoyne
• January 31, 2024

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Discover the best wine tours in Montepulciano through our expertly curated guide. Explore the rich flavours of Vino Nobile and experience the essence of Tuscan winemaking traditions, by embarking on an unforgettable tour in this enchanting town.

In the heart of Tuscany, Montepulciano’s vineyards offer more than just scenic beauty; they are a gateway to understanding a rather unique wine, one that is rich in both history and flavour.

Vino Nobile de Montepulciano, the area’s crowning glory, captures the essence of the region with its rich, nuanced flavours. It was the wine of popes, kings and nobles, but today, its elegant balance of red fruit, dark berries and spicy, oaky notes, is a wine that can be enjoyed by all.

This guide is your shortcut to the best Montepulciano wine tours, each personally chosen for their unique offerings.

As you wander through these vineyards and sip on the celebrated Vino Nobile, you’ll understand why this wine is a staple in my own collection at home – I still order bottles from the winery I visited for special occasions like Christmas.

In this post, join me as we explore the top wine experiences to be had in and around this picturesque town, where every tour is a journey into the heart of Tuscan winemaking.

Best Chianti Wine Tasting Tours from Florence: my top 3 picks

First choice.

Montepulciano Wine Tasting and Cellar Tour

• Duration: 1 hour

Selling points: Intimate insight into Tuscan winemaking

SECOND CHOICE

Wine Tour Ebike Experience

• Duration: 5 hours

Selling points: Scenic vineyard exploration by ebike

Third choice

Montepulciano: Wine Tasting & Lunch in a Typical Winery

Duration : 1.5 hours

Selling points: Historic cellar tour with Tuscan lunch

11 best wine tours in Montepulciano

1. montepulciano wine tasting and cellar tour.

★ RATING: 4.9/5 Stars | 🕰 TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour | ✓ Book now

Embark on an enthralling journey through the heart of Tuscan winemaking with the Montepulciano Wine Tasting and Cellar Tour .

This experience offers an intimate glimpse into the storied world of Montepulciano’s noble red wines .

Witness the magnificent Slavonian oak barrels where the esteemed Nobile di Montepulciano matures alongside French wood counterparts, a testament to the fusion of tradition and quality. The sandy tufa soils, rich in ancient fossils, speak of the region’s deep-rooted viticultural heritage.

As you taste the exquisite wines, each sip is enhanced by delectable pairings like aged pecorino, bruschetta with extra-virgin olive oil, and typical crostini .

I’ve included this Montepulciano wine tasting experience for its blend of history, sensory delight, and the chance to delve deeper into Tuscany’s winemaking lore .

Ideal for connoisseurs and curious travellers alike , this tour is a must for anyone seeking an authentic and insightful Tuscan wine experience.

Reviews: “ Splendid tour. The wine cellar was spectacular with so many various sizes of barrels. This ancient cellar was amazing. The wine tasting and exploration of each by our guide was excellent. Lasted 1.5 hours to 2 hours start to finish. Excellent local wine.” – GetYourGuide traveler Read more reviews here.

Useful information:

• Location: Via Ricci, 13, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
• Start Time: 10:30 AM, 3:00 PM
• Size of Tour: Small group
• Accessibility: Accessible only by foot; parking available at “Parking S. Donato” or “Parking P8.”
• Included: Guide, selection of pecorino cheeses, bruschetta with extra-virgin olive oil, typical crostini, five wines DOC and DOCG di Montepulciano.

2. Wine Tour Ebike Experience

★ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 🕰 TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | ✓ Book now

Discover the picturesque landscapes of Montepulciano on an electric bike with the Wine Tour Ebike Experience.

This 5-hour tour is a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and wine exploration . Pedal through scenic routes that weave through the Nobile wine route, with the ease of an electric bike making the hilly terrain a pleasure to navigate.

Immerse yourself in the Tuscan beauty, passing by vineyards, rolling hills, and charming bed-and-breakfasts.

The tour includes stops at local wineries for two exceptional wine tastings . Each sip of wine is a celebration of the region’s rich enological tradition.

I highly recommend this tour for those who enjoy combining a bit of physical activity with their wine discovery .

It’s perfect for active travellers who relish the idea of exploring the Tuscan countryside in a unique and engaging way .

Reviews: “Amazing. Rolling hills, small bed-and-breakfasts, wineries, mountains with endless vines… it was out of a movie set. Both of our wine tasting experiences were phenomenal. Our guide Pierre was outstanding. Worth every penny.” – Georgina_M, Oct 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Location: Urban Bikery, Via Ricci, 2, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
• Start Time: 10:30 AM – 06:30 PM
• Size of Tour: Private group
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible, not recommended for travellers with back problems or pregnant travellers
• Included: Alcoholic Beverages, ebike, helmet, raincoat, lunch, guide.

3. Montepulciano: Wine Tasting & Lunch in a Typical Winery

★ RATING: 4.4/5 Stars | 🕰 TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | ✓ Book now

Step into the heart of Tuscan wine culture with this exquisite 1.5-hour wine tasting and lunch experience at a historical winery in Montepulciano.

The tour, led by a professional sommelier , takes you through ancient cellars dating back to the 14th century, unveiling the secrets of wine production over centuries.

Taste four local wines , including the esteemed Rosso di Montepulciano DOCG and Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG , each paired with delightful Tuscan snacks.

Option 1: Appetizer & Main Course – This option includes a full Tuscan lunch featuring cold cuts, cheeses, and a seasonal pasta dish, allowing you to immerse in local flavours.

Option 2: Appetizer & 2-Courses – Elevate your experience with an additional course, enhancing the culinary journey alongside the exquisite wine tasting.

The tour is an ideal blend of history, gastronomy, and enology , perfect for those who cherish the finer aspects of Tuscan culture.

It’s a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of wine and local cuisine, set against the backdrop of Montepulciano’s stunning landscape.

Reviews: “A really pleasant and interesting experience. In addition to the lunch and the tasting made with excellent products and wines, it was very interesting to learn about the history of the cellar and the winemaking characteristics. Congratulations to the whole team.” – GetYourGuide traveler – Italy, March 22, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Location: Via Talosa, 8, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
• Start Time: 1:00 PM
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Size of Tour: Group
• Accessibility: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users
• Included: Winery tour, sommelier, snacks, wine tasting, lunch (optional gratuities and hotel pickup/drop-off not included)

4. Montepulciano: Winery Tour and Tasting

★ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | 🕰 TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | ✓ Book now

Delve into the rich history and exquisite tastes of Tuscan wines with the Montepulciano Winery Tour and Tasting.

This 1.5-hour experience transports you to a historic underground cellar, a hidden gem dating back to the 16th century. Under the guidance of an expert sommelier, uncover the secrets of the cellar’s storied past and its impressive vaults and tunnels, which set a captivating backdrop for the tasting.

Savour the flavours of Montepulciano as you sample four prestigious wines , including the celebrated Rosso di Montepulciano DOCG and Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG .

These tastings, expertly explained by the sommelier, offer a deep dive into the characteristics and nuances of each wine. Paired with traditional Tuscan appetizers, this tour presents a harmonious blend of history, culture, and gastronomy.

This tour is a splendid choice for wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike . It’s perfect for those who appreciate the intricate dance of history and winemaking, and who are eager to explore the depths of Tuscan wine culture.

Reviews: “The wine cellar and sommelier were fantastic, really knowledgeable about the history of the region’s grapes and the wines produced. It was a great tour!” – Shaun, Australia, September 20, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time: 11:00 AM, 3:30 PM
• Included: Winery tour, wine tasting, professional sommelier, water, appetizers, and bread (optional gratuities and hotel pickup/drop-off not included)

5. Montepulciano: Historical Cellars Guided Tour & Wine Tasting

★ RATING: 4.3/5 Stars | 🕰 TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ✓ Book now

Embark on a captivating journey through time with the Montepulciano Historical Cellars Guided Tour & Wine Tasting.

This 2.5-hour tour offers a profound insight into the historic heart of Montepulciano, starting at the iconic Piazza Grande. As you explore, uncover the centuries-old history that shapes the town and its celebrated Vino Nobile.

Your guide will lead you to two remarkable underground cellars , where the grandeur of the past meets the finesse of winemaking.

Wander through tunnels carved into spectacular brick vaults, housing gigantic oak barrels where the prestigious Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG and Rosso di Montepulciano DOC mature.

The tour culminates in a tasting of these exquisite wines, each embodying the essence of Montepulciano’s winemaking tradition.

This tour is a splendid blend of history, architecture, and viticulture . It’s ideal for those who not only love fine wine but also seek a deeper connection with the places they visit. The guide’s expertise enhances the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable.

Reviews: “The tour was amazing! It ended up being private and we got a thorough tour of the town along with lots of education about the wine. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and we loved seeing the town and getting recommendations for what to do after. Perfect amount of time.” – Maddy, United States, September 14, 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Location: Piazza Grande, 7, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
• Start Time: 10:30 AM
• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Size of Tour: Group, often private
• Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women
• Included: Walk through Montepulciano’s historic centre, guided tour of two cellars, wine tasting, glass and glass keeper (transfer not included)

6. Montepulciano: Winery Tour & Tasting Experience

★ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | 🕰 TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour 20 minutes | ✓ Book now

Embark on a journey through the depths of Montepulciano’s wine heritage with this Winery Tour & Tasting Experience.

This 1 hour and 20-minute tour invites you to a historical cellar in the heart of Montepulciano , a place where the 16th-century architecture meets the age-old tradition of winemaking.

Accompanied by an expert sommelier, you’ll explore the cellar’s underground , characterised by vaults and tunnels that echo the Etruscan civilisation. The tour is not just a tasting; it’s an immersive historical experience .

Discover a private collection of old wine bottles, and be amazed by an Etruscan tomb located within the cellar.

During the tasting session, indulge in four local wines , including the renowned Nobile di Montepulciano , paired with a selection of regional products.

This experience is a perfect blend of history, culture, and enological excellence , ideal for those who appreciate the subtleties of high-quality wine production and the stories behind them.

Reviews: “Great experience. Small group tour. Friendly and knowledgeable guide. We learned new things about wines and process but weren’t overloaded with information. All together a great experience.” – Sandy_e, Sep 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Location: Talosa – Cantina Storica, Via Talosa, 8, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
• Start Time: Options at 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM, 3:30 PM
• Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Size of Tour: Maximum of 15 travellers
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible, not suitable for people with impaired mobility
• Included: Winery tour, wine tasting, professional sommelier, drinks (wine & water), food (local products)

7. Italian Wine Tasting with Professional Sommelier in Montepulciano

★ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 🕰 TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 15 minutes | ✓ Book now

Experience a journey through Italy’s illustrious wine culture with this Italian Wine Tasting session in Montepulciano , hosted by a professional sommelier.

Over 2 hours and 15 minutes , immerse yourself in a comprehensive and joyful exploration of wines from Italy’s most celebrated winemaking regions.

Your adventure begins with an aperitif on Osteria del Borgo’s renowned terrace , followed by a dive into the world of Italian wines in a charming cellar room .

You will taste nine top-notch Italian wines , gaining insights into the unique characteristics that distinguish wines like Vino Nobile, Brunello di Montalcino, Supertuscan, Chianti Classico, Barolo, and Amarone.

This is more than a tasting; it’s an educational experience that illuminates the stories and intricacies behind these iconic wines.

This event is perfect for couples, groups of friends, and wine lovers who seek an in-depth understanding of Italian wines in a warm and engaging setting.

Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious novice, this tasting offers a welcoming environment to deepen your appreciation of Italian viniculture.

Reviews: “It was educational, fun and very tasty! I never learned as much about the story behind the wines and the region as during this wine tasting. Tassos is an excellent sommelier and great speaker. I loved every second of this event. They are pet friendly too, also my dog was all ears for Tassos’s stories. Thanks guys for a great afternoon!” – Mandy_V, Oct 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Location: Osteria del Borgo, Via Ricci, 5, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
• Start Time: 04:00 PM
• Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Size of Tour: Maximum of 25 travellers
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible, service animals allowed
• Included: Bottled water, snacks, wine tasting with professional sommelier

8. Montepulciano: Wine Tasting & Lunch in a Typical Winery

★ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | 🕰 TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour 30 minutes | ✓ Book now

Delight in the authentic flavours and rich history of Tuscany with the Montepulciano Wine Tasting & Lunch Experience.

This 1.5-hour gourmet excursion begins in an ancient wine cellar, where you’ll be guided by a knowledgeable sommelier through the intricacies of local wine production.

Option 1: Appetizer & 2-courses English – Enjoy a tantalising selection of cold cuts and cheeses, followed by a two-course meal featuring fresh, seasonal pasta dishes like Lasagna, Cannelloni, Ribollita, Pappa al Pomodoro, and more.

Option 2: Appetizer & Main in English – This option offers a similar delightful experience, combining a traditional Tuscan lunch with a curated wine tasting.

The experience continues with a sommelier-led tasting of four local wines , each paired with regional products.

The wines, including Rosso di Montepulciano DOCG and Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, are known worldwide for their excellence. The lunch showcases the best of Tuscan cuisine, with vegetarian options available to accommodate all preferences.

This tour is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the essence of Tuscan winemaking and culinary traditions . It’s an ideal choice for food and wine enthusiasts looking for a unique and enriching experience in the heart of Montepulciano.

Reviews: “Unique Tuscan experience! The winery below street level was so amazing. Barbara, our guide, was knowledgeable and fun. We enjoyed learning about wine production and tasting the differences. The lasagna lunch was excellent too.” – Susan_Z, May 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Start Time: 01:00 PM
• Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Included: Winery tour, professional sommelier, wine tasting, lunch, food & drinks (vegetarian option available)

9. Tour of the Historical Cellars in Montepulciano

★ RATING: 4/5 Stars | 🕰 TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 30 minutes | ✓ Book now

Discover the hidden treasures beneath the medieval streets of Montepulciano with this enriching Tour of the Historical Cellars.

Spanning approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes , this tour is a deep dive into the history and winemaking traditions that define Montepulciano.

Your journey starts at the picturesque Piazza Grande, where you’ll delve into the rich history of this renowned wine region.

Guided by an expert, you’ll explore two underground cellars , venturing through tunnels carved into tuff and under spectacular brick vaults. The highlight is undoubtedly the gigantic oak barrels where the illustrious Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG and Rosso di Montepulciano DOC rest and mature, a true testament to the area’s vinicultural legacy.

This tour is a private affair , offering a more intimate experience and personal attention.

It’s ideal for those who are keen to understand not just the flavours but also the historical context of Montepulciano’s celebrated wines.

Expect a journey filled with fascinating insights and delightful wine tastings , culminating in a deeper appreciation of the region’s viticultural prowess.

Reviews: “Laura was excellent. Very knowledgeable and a great pleasure to spend time with. We were very fortunate to have a private tour with her and we thoroughly enjoyed her expertise and her company.” – Sarah_T, Oct 2022 Read more reviews here.

• Location: Achille Lauro parking area, opposite the Europa Palace Hotel
• Start Time: 9 AM
• Duration: 6 hours
• Size of Tour:
• Included: Guide, comfortable transport by coach, light lunch, wine tasting , entrance fee

10. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Wine Tour – Meet the Producers

★ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | 🕰 TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours 30 minutes | ✓ Book now

Dive into the heart of Tuscany’s wine country with the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Wine Tour.

This 3.5-hour journey offers an intimate look at two boutique wineries in the Montepulciano countryside , providing a unique opportunity to meet the vintners and learn about their wine production methods and philosophies.

The tour includes visits to family-run vineyards and more professional estates , showcasing the diversity of Montepulciano’s winemaking community.

You will be guided through scenic walks in the vineyards, getting a closer look at the Sangiovese grapes that are the backbone of the region’s wines.

The experience is enriched by tastings of the renowned Rosso di Montepulciano DOC and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, where you can savour seven different wines , each with its unique flavour profile and story.

This tour is a must for anyone passionate about wine and looking to delve deeper into the traditions and challenges of winemaking in Tuscany .

It’s an insightful and delightful experience, perfect for those who appreciate the blend of history, culture, and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle of Vino Nobile.

Reviews: “Amazing vineyard tours! Each of the producers were different: one was very homey and clearly a family-run vineyard; the other was a bit larger and professional. The tours were amazing and I learned so much about the process and the challenges they faced this year with weather, etc. The food was delicious and the wines amazing. We got to taste 7 wines in total and they were all delicious.” – Ellen_K, Sep 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Location: Valdichiana Living, Piazza Grande, 7, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
• Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
• Size of Tour: This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, stroller accessible, infant seats available
• Included: Visits to two wineries, explanation of winemaking processes, scenic vineyard walks, wine tasting, glass and glass carrier, transportation service

11. Meal with Wine Tasting in the Vineyard of Podere Casanova

★ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 🕰 TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | ✓ Book now

Indulge in the quintessential Tuscan experience with a visit to Podere Casanova, where a fusion of fine wine, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking scenery awaits.

This 4-hour experience begins with a warm welcome and a guided tour of the winery, unraveling the intricate processes behind winemaking.

Following the insightful tour, prepare to be enchanted by a meal amidst the vineyards .

Dine surrounded by the vivid colours and fragrances of nature, a setting that amplifies the authenticity of the Tuscan spirit. The menu includes handmade delicacies like Pici with ragout and spaghetti with local sauce , each dish reflecting the region’s culinary heritage.

This experience is not just about the meal; it’s about immersing oneself in the Tuscan way of life .

To dine in the vineyard, especially during spring, summer, or autumn, is to connect with the history and warmth of Tuscany. The magical combination of food and wine, served with discreet elegance, adds to the poetry of the occasion.

This event is a must for anyone seeking an intimate and memorable Tuscan winery experience. It’s perfect for those who not only appreciate great wine and food but also desire to bask in the romantic ambiance of Tuscan hills and vineyards.

Reviews: “A 10/10 experience of a fabulous Tuscan winery. Our host and guide Sophia was very knowledgeable and we enjoyed learning about the wine making process and then tasting the lovely wines. We enjoyed a meal on the balcony overlooking the winery and the food was sensational. They really went out of their way to make us feel welcome and to make our visit memorable.” – Buddy, Sep 2023 Read more reviews here.

• Location: Podere Casanova Montepulciano, Strada Provinciale 326 Est, n, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy
• Duration: 4 hours
• Size of Tour: This experience requires a minimum of 6 guests. It’s a private tour/activity, so only your group will participate.
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible, infants must sit on laps
• Included: Alcoholic beverages, guided winery visit, meal in the vineyard, transportation service (extra charge for pickup)

What to keep in mind when choosing Montepulciano wine tours

Understanding Montepulciano Wines

When selecting wine tours from Montepulciano, it’s crucial to remember the unique character of its wines, setting them apart from other Tuscan varieties like those from Chianti.

The region’s flagship, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, crafted predominantly from the Prugnolo Gentile variant of Sangiovese, offers a distinctly softer and more rounded profile than the sharper Sangiovese found in Chianti.

This difference is a direct reflection of Montepulciano’s varied terroir, where clay-limestone and sandy soils contribute to a gradual, harmonious grape maturation. As a result, Vino Nobile charms with its balanced notes of cherry and plum, complemented by a smooth, elegant structure.

Also, the lighter Rosso di Montepulciano provides a fruitier, more approachable option. These wines embody the rich history of Montepulciano, tracing back to Etruscan times and revered by Italian royalty.

Understanding these nuances can greatly enhance your wine tour experience, offering a deeper appreciation of Montepulciano’s distinctive wine legacy.

Tour Duration and Activities

Delve into the details when considering whether you want to experience a Montepulciano winery visit, or go wine tasting in the town. These tours vary in duration and activities.

Some of the tours I’ve included offer immersive cellar visits and deep insights into winemaking traditions.

Others present opportunities for leisurely walks or electric bike rides through picturesque vineyards. Your choice should align with your interests and energy levels.

Physical Accessibility

Keep in mind that not all Montepulciano wine tasting tours are accessible to individuals with mobility challenges. Certain tours may require walking in car-free zones or navigating hilly terrain on bikes.

Ensure the tour you select accommodates your specific needs in terms of physical accessibility. If in doubt, check first with the provider before making your booking.

The size of the tour group can significantly impact your experience. Smaller group tours often provide an intimate and personalised atmosphere. In contrast, larger groups can offer a more sociable but less tailored adventure. Consider your preference for group dynamics when reviewing these wine tasting tours in Montepulciano.

Seasonal Considerations

The time of year can add an extra layer of enchantment to your tour. Whether you visit during the vibrant summer or the picturesque autumn, the season can influence your experience.

Witnessing vineyards in full bloom or during the harvest can enhance the tour’s charm. Summer will be hot, so make sure to wear attire that is suitable for scorching temperatures!

Food Pairings and Meals

Think about your culinary desires. Some tours emphasise wine tasting exclusively, while others offer the opportunity to savour local Tuscan cuisine. Decide whether you want a tour that focuses solely on wine or one that invites you to indulge in delectable Tuscan fare.

Transportation Options

Consider transportation logistics. If the tour’s starting point is not easily accessible, check if it includes transportation or if pickup services are available for an additional fee. This ensures a hassle-free journey to any of the Montepulciano vineyard tours included on this list.

Local Regulations and Customs

Respect local customs and regulations, especially those related to drinking age limits or health and safety measures. Adhering to these guidelines enhances your experience and shows consideration for the local laws. Don’t be silly, and avoid drink driving! If necessary, get a taxi there and back from town!

Remember, Montepulciano wine tours extend beyond mere tastings; they immerse you in the culture, history, and scenic beauty of the Tuscan landscape. Think of it outside the wine tasting experience alone!

Going wine tasting in Montepulciano: FAQ

1. What is Montepulciano known for in terms of wine?

Montepulciano is renowned for its production of two exceptional red wines: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Rosso di Montepulciano.

Vino Nobile, considered the “noble wine” of Montepulciano, is a robust and aged wine, while Rosso di Montepulciano offers a younger and more approachable taste. Both wines are unique to this region and are a must-try for wine enthusiasts.

2. How do I choose the right Montepulciano wine tour?

Selecting the perfect Montepulciano wine tour depends on your preferences. Consider factors like tour duration, group size, physical accessibility, and the inclusion of activities such as cellar visits or bike rides. Determine whether you want a tour focused solely on wine or one that combines wine tasting with Tuscan cuisine.

3. What should I wear on a Montepulciano wine tour?

Dress comfortably and casually, but it’s a good idea to avoid wearing strong perfumes, as they can interfere with the wine tasting experience (you want to be smelling the floral tones of your wine, not your fragrance!).

Depending on the season, bring layers for varying weather conditions, and don’t forget sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses for outdoor tours.

4. Are Montepulciano wine tours suitable for non-drinkers or children?

While wine is the centrepiece of these tours, some also offer non-alcoholic options for non-drinkers and children. Check with the tour provider in advance to see if they can accommodate your preferences. A vineyard tour, for example, may actually appeal to some children, as there will be plenty to look at and learn about (even if they can’t drink the wine). 

5. Is there a best time of year to visit Montepulciano for wine tours?

The best time to visit depends on your preferences. Spring and summer offer vibrant vineyard views, while autumn showcases the picturesque harvest season. Each season has its unique charm, so choose the one that resonates with you the most.

6. Do I need to be an expert in wine to enjoy the tours?

No prior wine knowledge is required to enjoy Montepulciano wine tours. These tours are designed for both novices and wine enthusiasts. Professional guides provide insights into the wine-making process, allowing you to appreciate the experience regardless of your expertise.

7. Are there vegetarian or dietary options for food pairings?

Many Montepulciano wine tours offer vegetarian and dietary options for food pairings. It’s advisable to inform the tour provider about your dietary preferences or restrictions in advance to ensure a delightful culinary experience.

8. Can I purchase wine during the tour, and how do I transport it home?

Yes, most tours allow you to purchase wines you’ve tasted. Some even provide shipping services to send the wines directly to your home address. Alternatively, inquire about local regulations and packaging options if you plan to transport the wine in your luggage.

9. Are reservations required for Montepulciano wine tours?

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking in advance ensures your spot on the tour and allows tour providers to accommodate your preferences, such as dietary restrictions.

10. Are there age restrictions for wine tours in Montepulciano?

Age restrictions may apply, and the legal drinking age in Italy is 18 years. Some tours may allow underage participants if accompanied by an adult. Be sure to check with the tour provider regarding their specific age policies.

11. What should I do if I’m not a wine drinker but still want to experience the tour?

If you’re not a wine drinker, you can still enjoy the scenic beauty, cultural insights, and delicious food offered on Montepulciano wine tours. Some tours offer non-alcoholic alternatives, making it a delightful experience for everyone.

12. Can I visit Montepulciano wineries independently, or is a guided tour recommended?

While independent visits are possible, guided tours offer a deeper understanding of the wine-making process, access to historical cellars, and the opportunity to taste a curated selection of wines. Guided tours often provide a richer and more informative experience.

Conclusion: Best Montepulciano Wine Tasting Experiences

In the heart of Tuscany, Montepulciano beckons with its rich wine-making heritage and captivating landscapes.

If you’re seeking an authentic Tuscan wine experience, I recommend the popular “ Montepulciano Wine Tasting and Cellar Tour .” With a rating of 4.9/5 stars, this tour offers an intimate journey into the world of Montepulciano’s noble red wines.

Explore ancient cellars, witness the impressive oak barrels, and savour the exquisite wines paired with local delights. It’s a blend of history, sensory delight, and the chance to delve deeper into Tuscany’s winemaking lore.

For more wine-related content and to plan your trip to Tuscany, don’t miss our other wine tour recommendations, such as the best Chianti tours from Florence , top Siena wine tours , and a guide to the best Brunello wine tours .

If you’re embarking on a wider Tuscany road trip , we have an itinerary to help you make the most of your journey.

Dive into the beauty of Siena with our guide on how to spend a day in this enchanting city , and explore the charming towns and villages of Tuscany with our roundup of must-visit destinations .

Essential related reading if you are travelling to Tuscany

• TUSCANY ITINERARY | Tuscany Guide – How To Have A Very Memorable Tuscan Road Trip
• TUSCAN VILLAS WITH POOLS | 19 Beautiful Villas In Tuscany With Private Pools [2024]
• BEST TUSCAN TOWNS TO VISIT | 11 Best Towns In Tuscany That You Need To Visit At Least Once
• IS FLORENCE WORTH VISITING | Is Florence Worth Visiting? 19 Pros + 6 Cons to Help You Decide
• FLORENCE ITINERARY | How To Spend 2 Days In Florence – A Comprehensive Guide
• BEST CHIANTI WINE TOURS FROM FLORENCE | 15 Best Chianti Wine Tours From Florence: 2024 Curated Picks
• BEST BRUNELLO WINE TOURS | Best 15 Brunello Wine Tours: Curated Picks & Essential Tips
• LUXE FLORENCE VACATION RENTALS | Ultimate List Of The Best 17 Airbnbs In Florence Italy For Luxury Lovers
• LUXE SIENA VACATION RENTALS | The Best Airbnb Siena Italy – A Luxury List Of Siena’s Loveliest Listings
• BEST WINE TOURS IN SIENA | 10 Best Wine Tours in Siena [2024 Picks] + Tips to Maximise Your Experience
• SIENA CITY GUIDE |  The Perfect Way To Spend A Day In Siena, Italy
• BEST WINE TOURS IN MONTEPULCIANO | 11 Best Wine Tours in Montepulciano: 2024 Curated Picks
• BEST WINE TOURS IN TUSCANY | 15 Best Wine Tours in Tuscany (+ Tips For Choosing)
• ROME GUIDE | The Perfect 4-Day Rome Itinerary – Food, Culture & A Little Luxury

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Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

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THE 10 BEST Montepulciano Wineries & Vineyards

Wineries & vineyards in montepulciano.

• Wineries & Vineyards
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Cooking Classes
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• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Icario Winery

2. Azienda Agricola Ercolani

3. Cantina de' Ricci

4. Avignonesi

5. Az. Agr. Poliziano

6. Contucci Cantine

7. Gattavecchi Winery

8. La Braccesca

9. Cantina Fattoria della Talosa

10. Boscarelli

11. Azienda Agricola Canneto

12. Villa Sant'Anna

13. Cantina Crociani

14. Manvi Winery

15. BINDELLA tenuta Vallocaia

16. Fattoria Pulcino

17. Montemercurio

18. Podere Le Bèrne

19. Palazzo Vecchio Winery

20. Vinoteca Terra Toscana

21. Tanagatta, Azienda Agricola

22. Azienda Agricola Romeo

23. Az. Maria Caterina Dei

24. Podere Della Bruciata Winery

25. Azienda Luteraia

26. Tenuta Santavenere - Casa Vinicola Triacca

27. Metinella

28. Borgo DiVino

29. Cantina Priorino

30. Villa Talosa

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• Cantina de' Ricci
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• Cantina Fattoria della Talosa
• Icario Winery
• Az. Agr. Poliziano

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Talosa, a winery found in Via Pietrose, is owned by the family of a famous entrepreneur, Angelo Jacorossi. Talosa makes wine with love, passion, and dedication, an awesome trilogy which most Italian families live by. Because of Angelo’s strong bond with nature especially land, he decided to venture into wine production as a way to express his passion.

Talosa has 33 hectares of vineyards and to produce world-class wine, the estate uses strict cultivation and harvesting techniques to obtain high-quality grapes. Wine lovers can have free access to Talosa’s Piazza Grande, a charming square that hosts the winery’s historic cellar. Talosa Winery is synonymous with the production of DOCG and DOC wines such as Nobile di Montepulciano, Rosso di Montepulciano, Chianti dei Colli Senesi, Extra-virgin olive oil and others.

2. Gattavecchi Winery

Also known as the Cantina Gattavecchi, Gattavecchi Winery is one of the popular and best wineries in Montepulciano, Tuscany. It is owned by the Gattavecchi family who have dedicated themselves to wine production for more than a hundred years. The Gattavecchi winery has a unique wine production style that is based on innovation, respect for traditions and also the land. As a matter of fact, they describe the land which contains their vineyards as – the land of unique wines of noble origin.

Each generation of the Gattavecchi family has significantly contributed to the production of some of the world’s fine wines as well as spirits. This winery is popular with tourists and wine tasters thanks to its high-quality DOC and DOCG wines which include Rosso di Montepulciano, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and others.

With three wine tasting options, visitors can taste two wines for ten euros, two Vino Nobile wines which are accompanied by cheese, cold cuts and bread for 15 euros or three riserva wines that are accompanied by cold cuts, cheese, and bread for 18 euros.

Apart from the guided wine tasting tours, visitors can also get the chance to taste the local cuisine that is made with local products like cheese and other specialties. Lilian’s kitchen has tasting menus where visitors get the unique opportunity to taste wines and extra-virgin olive oil paired with local specialties. Gattavecchi Winery is an amazing place to taste Montepulciano’s fine wine. It is located in Via di Collazzi.

3. Contucci

Contucci’s wine production style is based on tradition and innovation which the winery has carried and implemented for more than 1000 years. Located in Via del Teatro, Montepulciano, this winery has been owned for centuries by the Contucci family. Since the 1700s, this family has established itself among the top wine producers in Italy. A 1773 document shows that the Contucci family were among the “putative-fathers” of the Vino di Montepulciano. They have significantly contributed in making this wine famous and as a result, they have won numerous certificates and medals.

Contucci produces wines such as the Sansovino, Rosso di Montepulciano, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and extra-virgin olive oil. The winery has arched enclaves which are stacked with barrels of wine and wine tasting is free here.

4. Tenuta Valdipiatta

Located in Via Della Ciarliana in Montepulciano, Tenuta Valdipiatta’s hilltop location makes it a picturesque destination for wine tours. The winery which is located on a 75-hectare of land boasts of over 30 hectares of vineyards. The stellar wine farm has one of the most prestigious wineries in Montepulciano.

This farm property which was founded by Giulio Caporali in the 1980s uses a strong and innovative style to produce its wines. They use this style because of their profound respect for land and also the need to produce world-class wines. Tenuta Valdipiatta is renowned for the production of the famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wine. Their other DOC and DOCG wine produce include Vin Santo di Montepulciano, Rosso di Montepulciano, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano-“Vigna Alfiero” and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano -“Riserva”.

5. Avignonesi

Avignonesi conducts tours and wine tasting from May through October. The tours including walking through its vast vineyards, visiting the cellars to get the full view of the wine-making process etc. Visitors are allowed to taste more than five different types of wines

Not only does Avignonesi offers wine tasting tours, the winery has a bar and it offers wine and gourmet Ferrari tours, cooking classes with wine-paired lunch, hot-air balloon tours with wine-paired brunch among others. The sophisticated winery has numerous fun activities which are paired with wine-tasting. Apart from Vin Santo di Pernice, their award-winning premium wine, Avignonesi also produces DOC and DOCG wines such as Rosso di Montepulciano, Vin Santo di Montepulciano, extra-virgin oil and others. It is one of the most explored wineries in Montepulciano.

Montepulciano, just like a bottle of fine wine, has aged well. The longer you take to explore its wineries, the more you will fall in love with it. What makes the wineries which are found here to stand out is that each has a unique style of production but they all produce fine and top-rated wines.

Wineries to visit Montepulciano

Best wineries and vineyards to visit in montepulciano.

Here you have a list of the best wineries to visit in Montepulciano . You can book online your winery visit in Montepulciano on Winedering.com, choosing those wineries marked with "BOOK ONLINE!" badge! Booking online a Winery Visit in Montepulciano is fast , easy and secure on Winedering.com!

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Cantina Terra Antica (Winery in Montepulciano)

Icario (Winery in Montepulciano)

Poderi Boscarelli (Winery in Montepulciano)

Luteraia (Winery in Montepulciano)

Podere della Bruciata (Winery in Montepulciano)

Azienda Agricola Casale Daviddi Montepulciano (Winery in Montepulciano)

Ercolani Montepulciano (Winery in Montepulciano)

La Ciarliana (Winery in Montepulciano)

Le Bèrne (Winery in Montepulciano)

Carpineto srl (Winery in Montepulciano)

Antico Colle (Winery in Montepulciano)

CANTINA CHIACCHIERA (Winery in Montepulciano)

Croce di Febo (Winery in Montepulciano)

Fattoria Svetoni (Winery in Montepulciano)

Il Molinaccio di Montepulciano (Winery in Montepulciano)

Le Bertille (Winery in Montepulciano)

Palazzo Vecchio - Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (Winery in Montepulciano)

Tenuta Valdipiatta (Winery in Montepulciano)

More information on montepulciano.

If your ideal trip includes plenty of wine tastings and winery visits in one of the most quintessential Italian sceneries, Montepulciano is the place for you. This beautiful medieval town is located in the south of Tuscany, perched on the top of one of the sunny hills that characterize the landscape, surrounded by hectares of vineyards. Furthermore, Montepulciano 's unique layout, characterized by a difference in height of about 60 meters, allowed the construction of the town's historical underground cellars, dug into the tuff rock the town lies on. Thanks to its strategic positioning, Montepulciano is a great starting point for your Tuscan wine tour , allowing you to easily reach other locations of interest such as Pienza, Siena, Val d'Orcia or Val di Chiana.

Montepulciano 's secular winemaking tradition, stunning landscapes and rich historical background make it the ideal location for travelers who want to combine wine tastings and winery visits with some more traditional sightseeing. Montepulciano 's Vino Nobile was one of the first wines in Italy to obtain the DOC (controlled designation of origin) recognition and in 1980 it was the first Italian wine to achieve further recognition, DOCG (controlled and guaranteed designation of origin) . Other typical wines of the area are: Rosso di Montepulciano DOC, Bianco Vergine della Valdichiana DOC, Chianti Colli Senesi DOC and Vin Santo DOC.

Which food to taste in Montepulciano?

The best way to accompany a glass of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG during your next wine tasting is with some typical food from the area. Some specialities that cannot be missed are Pecorino di Pienza DOP, prosciutto di Cinta Senese DOP, pici alle briciole, Chianina steak, almond cantucci dipped in Vin Santo.

Which wines to taste in Montepulciano?

During your wine tastings in Montepulciano , you will be able to taste different grape varieties, at times combined to obtain a well-balanced and rounded wine. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, for example, has the same base grape variety as other well renown Italian wines, like Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino: Sangiovese, locally known as Prugnolo Gentile. Other local grape varieties include Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia. Of course, the Tuscan hills of this area host some international varieties as well, such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Which is the best season to visit Montepulciano?

The best season to plan your holiday, weekend or even just a wine tasting in Montepulciano is summer. This will allow you to enjoy the landscape at its maximum beauty and liveliness. On the last Sunday of August, the Bravio delle Botti is held, a competition between the eight districts of the town where competitors - known as the "pushers" - have to roll empty wine barrels uphill for more than a kilometer.

What things to do in Montepulciano?

Between a wine tasting and a winery visit, don't miss out on these highlights of Montepulciano : the old town, including its main square - Piazza Grande - and the Duomo, Montepulciano 's thermal baths, Palazzo Bucelli, Tempio di San Biagio.

Which wineries to visit in Montepulciano?

• Ercolani Montepulciano
• La Ciarliana
• Cantina Terra Antica
• Poderi Boscarelli
• Azienda Agricola Casale Daviddi Montepulciano

Where to do wine tastings in Montepulciano?

• Light lunch experience at Terra Antica estate
• Wine Lover Tasting at Tiberini in Montepulciano
• Artisanal Wine Tasting on the panoramic terrace of Podere della Bruciata
• Contadino food and wine experience at Tiberini in Montepulciano
• Classic Wine Tasting and Tour at Poderi Boscarelli in Montepulciano
• Tuscan Lunch at Terra Antica in Montepulciano
• Wine Tasting of Tuscan Wines at Casale Daviddi in Montepulciano
• Wine Enthusiast Experience at Tiberini in Montepulciano

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Delicious Italy

Along the Nobile di Montepulciano Wine Road

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Like all the dedicated wine routes across the Italian regions, the ' Strada del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano e dei Sapori della Valdichiana Senese ' is more than just a simple tourist route map through the Siena countryside.

It is an invitation to make very fine wine an excuse to get close to the food, culture, nature and historical attractions of such locations as Pienza , Cetona, Chiusi, San Casciano dei Bagni , Trequanda, Sinalunga, Chianciano Terme, Sarteano, Torrita di Siena and, of course, Montepulciano .

Saying that, the wine producers, cellars, restaurants and cantinas are central to the experience, but there are around 80 stopping off points .

Try the following: Valiano, Cervognano, Acsianello, Gracciano, Abbadia and Acquaviva.

To find out more, drop by the official information centres located in Piazza Grande in Montepulciano and Piazza Italia in Chianciano Terme.

As well as picking up a map , you can request details for accommodation, restaurants , shops and local businesses selling typical food products, pasta factories , as well as wineries and wine shops of course.

Wine Tasting

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG is, of course, only a red wine.

If you see Reserva on the bottle, you can rest assured that the wine has been aged for a minimum of three years of which at least 6 must be in the bottle.

A lot is left to the discretion of individual winemakers with some, such as Carpineto , keeping their Reseve back for as much as 30 years.

All Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG, however, has at least 70% sangiovese grapes .

We had the pleasure of an invitation to the Anteprima Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva DOCG Carpineto.

Giovanni Carlo Sacchet and Antonio Mario Zaccheo set up Carpineto in 1967 producing their first Vino Nobile di Montepulciano in the 1980s.

Today, a new generation has taken over backing eco-sustainable practices across 500 hectares of Tuscany in five different wine zones : Montalcino, Gaville (Alto Valdarno), Dudda (Greve in Chianti), Gavorrano and Montepulciano.

Carpineto - www.carpineto.com - now boasts 30 labels comprising a production of 3 million bottles including some of the most prestigious DOCG of Tuscany.

Their Riserva is noted for its great structure and longevity. In the Wine Spectator top 100 for 2018 , Carpineto Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva was given 11th place with a score of 95 points.

Dan Hostetler adds about Greve in Chianti:

"This lovely Tuscan village celebrates wine harvest time with a wine festival featuring it's own locally grown Chianti. About 30 vitners showcase their wines in the beautiful funnel-shaped main piazza which is arcaded on every side and lined with balconies full of geraniums and petunias. The festival starts gathering momentum every day and night for a week before this weekend with concerts, dances, wine-tastings, round table discussions and sporting events. On Saturday night, however, the city returns to the middle ages as people wearing both medieval and Renaissance clothes of lush velour fill the piazza. There is a parade with drummers in crimson velvet and warriors in pewter-colored armor with their helmets snapped shut over their faces. There are nobles, clergy, flag-throwers and all the members of a medieval society present. As darkness falls, the piazza fills up for rock and jazz concerts. On a side, but important note, this is the birthplace of the "Slow City" movement which is an offshoot of the "Slow Food" movement. This status is not easy to obtain because it requires the city administrators to follow a strict manifesto of pledging specific actions to combat noise pollution, plant more trees, maintain city parks and support the rich artistic, cultural and culinary traditions of the city. Visitors can be assured of a s-l-o-w but completely wonderful experience no matter what activity they pursue in this unique and elite town".

Strada del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Piazza Grande 7, Montepulciano (Siena) tel +39 0578 717484 www.stradavinonobile.it

• Map of the Zone of the Strada del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano e dei Sapori della Valdichiana Senese (3946 Downloads)

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By chance, an old wine book recently fell into our hands.

Published in 1969, the subtitle of the volume summarizes the work perfectly:

" To drink well- how, where and when ."

You may never have of heard of olfactory tourism . You may think it will never apply to you. But it is all around us and seems to be the latest trend in travel.

In short, smells and odours are part of cultural heritage which allow us to live experiences, places, traditions and history more intensely by imprinting indelible memories in our minds.

October typically sees   Milan become the International Capital of Wine promoting not just wine culture but also fashion and design and other excellences it is world-famous for.

For both the public and industry operators, this year's MILANO WINE WEEK  has become a global business event connecting several cities around the world.

It also includes simultaneous and live events involving other districts of the city, as well as being accessible wherever you may be via the  Digital Wine Fair platform .

The Regions of Italy

Abruzzo Basilicata Calabria Campania Emilia Romagna Friuli Venezia Giulia Lazio Le Marche Liguria Lombardia Molise Piemonte Puglia Sardinia Sicily Trentino Alto Adige Tuscany Umbria Aosta Valley Veneto

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16 Best Wines to Buy Right Now for $20 or Less, According to Wine Pros

Owners and operators of wine stores we love recommend the best buys from the world’s major wine regions — all of them under $20.

2021 Sean Minor Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles ($18)

2021 barnard griffin rob’s red blend ($15), nv poggio costa prosecco brut ($16), 2021 masseria li veli orion primitivo salento ($20), 2020 domaine grande bellane côtes du rhône rouge ($17), 2020 masciarelli montepulciano d’abruzzo ($16).

• 2021 Folk Machine Parts & Labor Red Blend ($20)

2022 Brea Central Coast Chardonnay ($20)

2020 la petite metairie #ono cabernet franc ($15), 2021 estézargues côtes du rhône rouge ($15), 2022 mary taylor wine anjou blanc ($20), 2023 kumusha sauvignon blanc ($16), 2022 heron chardonnay ($18), 2021 vigneti massa terra piemonte rosso ($17).

• 2022 Filipa Pato & William Wouters Dinamica D.N.M.C. Branco ($20)

2022 Quinta de Santiago Vinho Verde ($18)

Robby Lozano

Finding great wine doesn’t need to cost a great deal. There’s a lot to love about a special occasion bottle of wine, like the First Growth Bordeaux you were gifted for your wedding, or the bottle of Champagne whose vintage is your birth year. But everyday wine, those easy-breezy bottles that you pop at a dinner party or after a long day of work, are the wines that should matter most. 

It’s often wine from the most well-known regions like Napa , Burgundy , and Tuscany , that are the most tempting. These regions have recognizable appellations, brands, or familiar bottle art, but often carry a big price tag. To find the best wine deals right now (the kind of bottles you’ll want to order by the case to always have on hand) we turned to the folks who know more about buying wine than anyone else: our favorite retailers. Here are sixteen stellar wines from all over the world for $20 or less. 

The easy screw cap closure on this wine tells you a lot about what's going on inside the bottle: drink me now. It features lush red fruit like raspberry and cherry with a backbone of savory cedar. A touch of Merlot in the blend (only 6%) adds dark, rounded fruit notes evoking dark chocolate, cassis, and even coffee. Its delicious fruit flavors are concentrated yet easy going — a fabulous barbecue wine. 

Experts say: “Paso Robles fruit offers all of the warmth you want from a classic California Cabernet at a fraction of the price you pay for Napa Cabs these days,” says David Weitzenhoffer of Community Wine & Spirits in New York City. “There’s a touch of oak in this wine, but it’s subtle and not overbearing.

Rob Griffin is the longest tenured winemaker in Washington State. Rob and his wife Deborah Barnard founded the winery over 40 years ago and make some of the best values in the region. Rob’s Red Blend has dark berry flavors and a touch of chocolate and coffee; the rich flavors of the 2021 vintage were in part thanks to an early spring and very, very hot summer in which black fruit ripened fast.

Experts say: “This appealingly jammy red blend has just enough acidity to keep the fruit in check, proving that Washington state red blends can be both delicious and well balanced while also offering serious bang for your buck,” says Weitzenhoffer, who grew up in Washington state.

This sparkling wine may be your new best friend when purchasing by the case. An easy-going sparkler with classic Prosecco aromas like golden apples and white flowers, this bottling is stellar on its own but also plays well in cocktails from a simple Mimosa to an Aperol Spritz. It’s made from 100% Glera grapes grown on coastal hillside vineyards whose cool coastal winds help preserve the grapes’ acidity. 

Experts say: “This Prosecco punches far above its price point with undeniable quality and elegance,” say TJ and Hadley Douglas, the husband-and-wife team behind The Urban Grape , a warm and inviting wine shop with locations in Boston and Washington, D.C.. “At the shop, this is our go-to bottle to pour at parties and include with gifts. We recommend it over and over again to anyone who will listen, it’s truly remarkable for the price."

Located right on the heel of Italy’s boot, Salento is a region within Puglia known for its hot, dry climate and rich red grapes. While Salento is famous for its wines made from the  Negroamaro grape, Masseria’s Orion bottling shows why Primitivo from Puglia shouldn’t be ignored. There’s plenty of red plum and blackberries with a touch of pink pepper to brighten everything up.

Experts say: “Primitivo, also known as Zinfandel, takes on a spicy, structured profile when grown on the limestone cliffs of Puglia in Southern Italy,” says Simi Grewal, owner of DECANTsf an all-in-one bottle shop, wine bar, and educational tasting room in San Francisco. “Their Orion bottling carries the juicy charm of Californian Zinfandel, with the spiciness of a southern Rhône Grenache and the body of a French Cabernet Sauvignon.”

A glowing red hue in the glass, this Rhône blend is warm and inviting. Made from grapes grown in chalky soils, this wine benefits from the Rhône’s hot summers coupled with its sloped landscape to fully ripen fruit-forward Grenache and Carignan without being overly jammy. For a more structured, ageworthy red, try Domaine Grand Bellane’s Valréas bottling which is a 50-50 blend of Grenache and Syrah. 

Experts say: “Exactly what you want from the Côtes du Rhône, this is a versatile and crowd-pleasing red from a fifth-generation family of organic vintners,” says Weizenhoffer. “A high proportion of Syrah in the blend adds the right peppery note to balance out the ripe fruit.”

A benchmark of the Montepulciano grape and the Abruzzo region, this wine has notes of red raspberries, cherries with a pleasing touch of smoke. Masciarelli ferments and ages their wines in stainless steel, helping protect fresh fruit flavors and aromas.

Experts say: “Masciarelli is a family estate that totally over delivers in this category,” says Weitzenhoffer. “Their entry-level Montepulciano works with all of the classic red-sauce pairings from pizza to puttanesca, but offers layers of tannin and complexity not typical at this price point.”

2021 Folk Machine Parts & Labor Red Blend ($20)

This Grenache-dominant red blend is best enjoyed with a slight chill. The wine is one of California’s best values — it’s well made and the grapes are carefully chosen, resulting in a wine that’s juicy yet complex and savory, that even features Carignane from 100+ year-old vines. 

Experts say: “Red blends are king when they taste this good,” says Douglas. “A blend of organically grown Carignane, Syrah, Grenache, and Barbera, this medium bodied wine from winemaker Kenny Likitprakong hits on all cylinders. Grapes for this wine are grown organically and the wine is made with minimal intervention as well.”

Since this wine sees both aging in French oak and goes through malolactic fermentation, which yields a creamy texture, winemakers Chris Brockway and Tim Elenteny pick grapes early in order to retain high levels of refreshing acidity. Expect green apple, lime zest, and mango. 

Experts say: “A breath of fresh air for California Chardonnay, this wine is crisp and zingy for the racy white wine lovers but familiar enough for a white Burgundy drinker,” says Brandon Loper of Golden Age Wine , a Birmingham, Alabama-based shop that focuses on natural and low-intervention wines. “It’s not your typical California Chardonnay, and the price point is excellent to keep a few in the fridge.”

Made from 100% Cabernet Franc in Chinon, one of the Loire Valley’s primer regions for red wine, this medium-bodied red has balanced fruity and savory flavors. Thanks to its medium tannins, the #Ono could be served with a slight chill — pair its warming spiced notes with anything featuring spices, from eggplant salad to lamb meatballs. 

Experts say: “From the trusted team at Domaine de la Commanderie comes this delicious and palate-friendly Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley,” says Douglas “This is a pop and pour wine that will please a whole table but won’t break the bank — which is good because you’ll definitely need more than one bottle.”

This medium-bodied Rhone blend features the region’s classic red grapes: Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre. It's delicious when enjoyed young, showing off red and black fruit flavors with a peppery finish, but with a bit of age (drink it within five years) the earth and baking spices really come through. 

Experts say: “[This is] made in one of the few natural wine co-ops, just twenty minutes from Châteauneuf-du-Pape,” says Loper. “Since it's produced by a co-op, you may see several labels with the same name. They will all be great, but this is a recent discovery for us, and we find it to be the perfect hamburger wine.”

Fans of classic Loire Chenin Blanc, this is the wine for you. Made from 100% Chenin, Mary Taylor’s Anjou Blanc features classic orchard fruit aromas of golden apples and green pear with bright acidity and minerality — it’s complexity could warrant double the price. 

Experts say: “Mary Taylor is a négociant who seeks out small producers who wouldn’t otherwise have the means to export their wines to the U.S.,” says Grewal. “Her white wines, like this Chenin Blanc from a fourth-generation winemaker in the Loire Valley village of Saint-Jean-de-Mauvrets, are smashing, with crystalline acidity and deep complexity from regions that you might not normally venture to.”

With notes of both lemons and golden apples, this South African Sauvignon Blanc leans stylistically toward Sancerre more than New Zealand. It’s zippy and bright without being overly acidic or green. The grapes are grown on ancient sandstone which could be responsible for the wine’s lovely mineral quality.  

Experts say: “There is a world of high-quality wines at value prices coming out of South Africa, but no one is doing it better than sommelier-turned-winemaker Tinashe Nyamudoka,” says Douglas. “While he’s a genius with South Africa’s better known white grape, Chenin Blanc, don’t miss this vibrant, tropical-fruited Sauvignon Blanc grown biodynamically along the Breede River in the Western Cape.”

Fresh and fragrant, this Chardonnay has notes of lemon blossom and stone fruit like ripe white peach. Since the wine sees no oak and doesn’t go through malolactic fermentation, it’s light and crisp, pairing fabulously with a bright summer salad but with enough texture and body to stand up to a rotisserie chicken. 

Experts say: “This dressed-down, zippy Chardonnay is helping to change the conversation about what ‘California Chard’ is,” says Grewal. “Laely Heron focuses on sustainably produced wines that reflect the purity of the grape variety. Heron makes varietal-driven wines, not blends, that are simply fermented to maintain the grapes’ characteristic flavors. She works with growers throughout California, and labels her sines simply as California, not a smaller appellation, which allows her to source from the best vineyards and maintain high quality while keeping costs down.”

Since most of winemaker’s Walter Massa’s work happens in the vineyards, it’s no surprise that one of his premier wines is called terra, meaning land in Italian. He lets the fruit lead the way when it comes to making this 100% Barbera . The grapes macerate on the skins before going through a long, slow fermentation with native yeasts with gentle lees stirring and battonage, resulting in a vibrant, fruity Barbera with a touch of spice and dried herbs. 

Experts say: “This Barbera is one of the best values in the natural-wine world,” says Loper. “It’s fresh and juicy with an Italian rusticity that will elevate any dinner you pair with. It’s especially perfect for red-sauce pasta dishes and pizza.”

2022 Filipa Pato & William Wouters Dinamica D.N.M.C. Branco ($20)

Made in Bairrada, a region along Portugal’s coastline, this smooth and refreshing white wine is made to pair with food from raw seafood to creamy shrimp cooked with lots of butter. Made from whole grape bunches that get pressed and fermented in stainless steel, 10% of the wine is aged in large French oak pipas , 500L barrels typically used in Portugal, which adds some richness and texture to the final blend. 

Experts say: “There are so many great wines coming out of Portugal that are priced incredibly well,” says Grewal. “This bottling is a blend of Arinto and Bical, two indigenous Portuguese varieties that pack a zesty and minerally punch while still being generous on the palate. It has a creamy texture with a salty finish and bright grassy notes, like sweet tarragon and white tea.”

Quinta de Santiago is family-owned and has been making wine since 1899. Their Vinho Verde, which features a 50-50 blend of the region’s classic grapes, Loureiro and Arinto, has quenching citrus notes of green apple and lime, coupled with steely minerality. It’s zippy, tart quality is something we often describe as “fizzy acidity,” where acid creates an almost effervescent feel on the palate. 

Experts say: “If you’re looking for a versatile bottle of white wine, then look no further,” says Loper. “I recently shared this with my family paired with some steelhead trout, sweet potatoes, and salad, and it worked well with everything on the plate.”

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Best Places to Visit in Tuscany

J oin EuropeUpClose as we take a journey to some of the best places to visit in Tuscany. We will begin in Florence, then drive to San Gimignano with a stop at the fabulous Antinori nel Chianti Classico Winery. From San Gimignano we venture to the compelling town of Siena with its fantastic cathedral and famous horse races in the Palio. Another hour south and we’ll stop at Caparzo Winery near Montalcino before heading east to the beautiful hilltop walled city of Montepulciano.

Also read these articles on Tuscany:

• Best Tuscany Wine Tours
• Where to Stay in Tuscany
• Tuscany Holiday Planning
• Tuscany Itinerary

Visit Florence

Florence is a natural starting point to begin your journey to the best places to visit in Tuscany. Known for the imposing red-roofed Duomo and Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia, Florence is a mecca for art, food, architecture, and history. You don’t want to miss the Uffizi Museum, the Central Market, and Ponte Vecchio, the bridge across the Arno River filled with shops displaying jewelry, crafts, and other fun products.

Also, read these articles on Florence:

• Where to stay in Florence
• Best Florence Walking Tours
• Best things to do in Florence
• Best Day Trips from Florence

Florentine Bisteca

And, of course, if you are in Florence, you must try the famous Florentine Bisteca. It is often referred to as some of the best steak in the world. We were lucky to have reservations at Trattoria dall’Oste Chianineria on  Via dei Cerchi. Just a few minutes south of the Duomo, this iconic restaurant is well known for their Bisteca and other fine cuts of meat.

Florentines do like their steak rare, so be aware. You can order yours medium or medium rare, and it will most likely still come out very pink. One thing I liked about Trattoria dall’Oste Chianineria is that they brought out a hot plate along with the steak. That way, anyone who wanted their steak more done could cook it a bit more right at the table. Most of us ate it like it came, but there were a few in our party who preferred their steak more done. Sides included roasted potatoes, pasta with thinly sliced truffles, and some tasty bruschetta. For dessert, we completed our meal with a glass of Vin Santo served with tasty biscotti.

Wine Tasting and Lunch at Antinori Winery

With options of several great Antinori locations, we chose to tour the Antinori nel Chianti Classico vineyards just 20 minutes south of Florence. In a country where wine is a way of life, for twenty-six generations, the name Antinori has stood out.

We booked the special CRU Tour. This included a tour of the winery, a wine tasting of seven great wines, followed by a delicious lunch. This fully immersive experience featuring the wine-making philosophy of Marchesi Antinori following years of family tradition. Led by our outstanding sommelier, our tasting was held inside the fabulous wine cellar. Then we enjoyed lunch on the outdoor patio at the Rinuccio 1180 restaurant. This modernistic rooftop restaurant overlooks the gently rolling hills of the scenic Tuscan countryside.

Some of our favorite wines included a crisp Cervaro Della Sala Blend of Chardonnay and Grechetto and a Tignanello red blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. The crowd favorite was the outstanding Brunello di Montalcino Pian Dellevigne Sangiovese. The following lunch on the beautiful outside terrance at Rinuccio made for a most pleasant day. This special vineyard among special vineyards in Tuscany is certainly worth a visit.

Explore the Hilltop Walled-Town of San Gimignano

After being totally wowed by Antinori nel Chianti Classico, we headed south to nearby San Gimignano. This was our third visit to this iconic Tuscan town – and we will be back again. No article about best places to visit in Tuscany would be complete without this idyllic town.

We stayed at the cozy Orto di Emma at Piazza delle erbe 4 . The location is conveniently in the middle of this walled city. Restaurants, spectacular views, and attractions are just a few steps away. Without any train station in town, most visitors come via personal car or with a tour group. There is a bus that comes from the closest train station (~ five miles away), but check the schedules.

Eat at Fuoriluogo Ristorante

Fuoriluogo Ristorante is a wonderful family restaurant just a two-minute walk outside the walls. In addition to having wonderful food, the service, the artwork, and the friendliness of Mauro, Davide, Enrica, Christian, and the rest of the staff are all top-notch. It’s no wonder Fuoriluogo is one of the highest-rated restaurants in San Gimignano.

Mauro was gone for important meetings with Barolo. He continues to work on the fine wines the restaurant offers to diners. In his absence, the rest of the staff did a superb job of welcoming us and making us feel so special. Our outstanding waiter, Rafael, kindly suggested a recommended menu along with wine pairings, and we were so glad we agreed to take his advice. Julie and I enjoyed a fantastic meal with just the right wines paired with each dish.

Favorites included the Wild Boar Ravioli with citrus fruits in a saffron cream sauce, and a delectable Soft Organic Egg with sausage, red peppers, and gorgovino mousse. We also both loved the pizza, some of the best I’ve ever tasted. The light, tender crust had just the right flavors to complement the fresh tomatoes, cheeses, and fresh herbs. For dessert, we could not resist the tempting tiramisu.  

In addition to the fantastic food and service, the artwork and ambiance of Fuoriluogo is superb. Davide is a wonderful artist and painted much of the beautiful artwork in the restaurant. The friendly staff, elegant but comfortable ambiance and outstanding food and drink make Fuoriluogo one of the top restaurants in San Gimignano.

Check Out Intriguing Siena

It was hard to leave San Gimignano, but we had Siena waiting for us. The charming walled city of Siena is famous for its beautiful cathedral and for the exciting Palio di Siena Horse Races held twice a year in the large central Piazza del Campo. We unfortunately just missed this exciting event. It normally takes place twice a year on July 2 and August 16 every year. Preliminary events take place the three days before the official race. Since this is a very popular event, plan early if you want to attend during the races.

Following lunch on the lovely outdoor terrace at ViVace Ristorante and Wine Bar , we walked the short 10 minutes to the beautiful gothic Siena Cathedral. This impressive structure was built between 1215 and 1267 and features artwork from artists like Michelangelo, Donatello, and Pisano. With its iconic greenish-black and white stripes, this historic icon is striking inside and out. Other great attractions in and around the cathedral include the Piccolomini Library, the Museo dell ‘Opera, Baptistery, Crypt, Oratory of San Bernardino, and Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art.

Drink Brunello Wines at Caparzo Winery in Montalcino 

With so many outstanding wineries around Montalcino, we picked Caparzo Winery to have a tasting and to explore. My new daughter-in-law became acquainted with Caparzo while watching the fun Letters to Juliet movie from 2010. There are some scenes in the movie from one of the many Caparzo winery locations in Tuscany. We thoroughly enjoyed our tour and tasting at Caparzo Winery, especially their world-famous Brunello di Montalcino. An added bonus was the spectacular scenery on our road trip from Montepulciano to Caparzo. Located in the picturesque hills of Montalcino, with fields of red poppies next to golden fields of wheat blowing in the breeze. 

Eat and Drink your Way through Montepulciano

So, after visiting the walled cities of San Gimignano and Siena, we had another walled hilltop city on our itinerary: Montepulciano. Our return to this fantastic village was equally full of great food, wines, views, history, and special people of the town. This very walkable small town is anchored by the Grand Piazza, and is famous for its Vino Nobile red wines . Another notable landmark includes the Torre di Pulcinella. This clock tower is topped by the whimsical figure of the Pulcinella, a classical comedic character. 

We also found the “underground city” of this hill town fascinating. Miles of tunnels, rooms, and cellars have been carved into the rock underneath Montepulciano, making for a fun and educational tour. We went to the popular Cantina Ercolani for a tour and wine tasting. Other popular wineries in Montepulciano include Cantucci Winery and Cantina de‘Ricci. 

Eat at L’Altro Cantuccio Ristorante

L’Altro Cantuccio Ristorante is a fabulous family-run restaurant just a few minutes’ walk from where we stayed at the lovely Montepulciano Bed & Breakfast at Via Di Gracciano. Chef Mattia Putzulu and his lovely wife, Monica, a Sommelier, have created one of the best dining experiences in Montepulciano. L’Altro Cantuccio exudes old-world charm. Modern appointments along with the historic stone, wood, and brick is the perfect blend of old and new. 

Mattia and Monica graciously hosted us for an extremely memorable evening. For starters, we enjoyed an outstanding Tuscan and Cinta Senese salami, Pecorino cheese of Pienza, and a selection of homemade fruit mostarda. Our server also brought a stuffed golden tomato held by a sculpted hand along with an excellent 100% Sangiovese wine. 

For my main course, I had the Cheek of Chianani Beef cooked for 50 hours, with spicy vegetables, citrus fruits, and dill. The beef cheek was extremely tender and flavorful. It was one of my favorite dishes during our three-week visit to Europe. My wife had the equally excellent grilled Chianani flank steak. Other enticing mains on the menu included the Lamb with ember, coconut, mint, and radish, and a crispy salt cod with artichokes and burrata cheese.

Dessert was the amazing Underworld, an artistic and decadent concoction of chocolate mushrooms, acorns, and undergrowth – a true masterpiece! Each bite brought out the intense flavors of chocolate, cream, and nuts. I would loved to have brought one back to the states to share with family and friends, but I don’t think it would travel well (plus, I would probably eat it all before our return!).

L’Altro Cantuccio has deservedly earned its reputation as one of the top restaurants in Montepulciano. Do yourself a favor, and let Mattia and Monica treat you to a fantastic dining experience in their lovely hilltop restaurant.

Discover Top Places in Tuscany For Yourself

Obviously, there are so many great places to visit in Tuscany that no one article can capture them all. Many are relatively unknown and just waiting for you to discover them. We hope by introducing you to just a few of the many options you will be inspired to come visit for yourself. Tuscany is indeed one of Italy’s treasures and should not be missed on any Italy itinerary .

Best Places to visit in Tuscany was written and photographed by Scott Kendall for EuropeUpClose. Thanks to our gracious hosts, including Fuoriluogo Ristorante and L’Altro Cantuccio. All opinions are those of the author.

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How to taste your way through Tuscany

Italy is known for its vibrant and varied cuisine. Discover it at its best in the region of Tuscany, where an assortment of inviting culinary experiences offer a true taste of the country.

Located in west-central Italy, the region of Tuscany is rich in natural beauty. Its striking landscapes vary from the chiselled Tuscan-Emilian Apennines in the north and the rugged Apuan Alps in the north-west, to the gentle green hills of Val d’Orcia in the south.

The region’s capital, Florence, is a destination renowned for its art and architecture. Its most iconic sight is the eminent Duomo, a stunning 400ft-tall masterpiece of the Renaissance. During its 100-year build, architect Filippo Brunelleschi is said to have introduced a pulley system to speed up lunch breaks, feeding the workers on the cathedral’s roof with peposo , a black pepper and beef stew.

Today, food remains an important part of Tuscany’s culture, and visitors are encouraged to slow down and savour the wide variety of culinary experiences on offer across the region — from truffle hunting and cheese tasting to sampling fine wine and sipping fresh coffee — here's how to get a taste.

1. Join a truffle hunt

Truffles are deeply rooted in Tuscan history, found throughout the region in all shapes and sizes and revered for their distinctive aromas and flavours. Learn about the timeworn traditions and distinct hunting practices of those seeking these subterranean delicacies at Italy’s first museum dedicated to truffles — the Museo del Tartufo e Centro di Documentazione — housed in an old castle in San Giovanni d’Asso. At Cucina Giuseppina , near the town of Certaldo, forage for your own truffles with the help of a guide and trained truffle-hunting dogs, before indulging in a truffle-based Tuscan lunch. In summer, you'll search for the elusive black truffle, while in the fall, the white truffle is the prize.

2. Try tasty cheeses

Tuscany is best known for pecorino, a sheep’s milk cheese — and especially treasured by Tuscans is the bold-flavoured pecorino cheese produced in Pienza, the aptly named pecorino di Pienza . Elsewhere in the region, the exuberant Palio dei Caci event draws crowds to the town of Volterra each October, where ‘runners’ compete to skilfully guide wheels of pecorino down a cobbled street. Many working farms in Tuscany are open to visitors, too, so you can learn how the cheese is made. Fattoria Corzano e Paterno just south-west of Florence produces cheese, wine and olive oil and also has guesthouses, a farm shop and a restaurant, with tasting sessions available year-round.

3. Make pasta from scratch

Handrolled pici is a popular pasta in Tuscany, often served with tomato, garlic and breadcrumbs. Pappardelle pasta is also a local favourite, generally served with rich and meaty sauces. Join a class to learn how to make your own pasta at wineries such as Magida in Brunello, which also offers accommodation packages. Private cooking lessons are also an option, where you can learn the art of the perfect pasta dish from professional chefs such as Antonella La Macchia .

4. Sample a variety of wines

Tuscany is well known for its geographically protected wines such as Chianti, Montepulciano and Brunello. Stop by the Enoteca la Fortezza wine bar inside the Fortezza di Montalcino and sample Montalcino's intense and complex Brunello wines. Enjoy tart and spicy Chianti wines at Pietraserena Azienda Agricola Arrigoni in San Gimignano, as you admire the impressive views across the hills and vineyards. Although Tuscany’s established viticulture scene is revered, there are also a growing number of organic, natural and biodynamic wines being developed, helping the region stay at the forefront of Italian wine production. Antinori nel Chianti Classico has been making wine since 1385 and now has an ultra-modern winery attached, which is open to visitors. Or find one of the unique buchette del vino (wine holes) hidden around Florence — at restaurants such as Babae , Belle Donne and Il Latini , to name a few — where wine is served through a tiny window, a tradition that dates back to 1559.

5. Experience a traditional trattoria

With charming hilltop towns seemingly around every bend, it’s easy to fall in love with a new local trattoria every evening in Tuscany. On the edge of Panzano-in-Chianti, head to the terrace at Il Vescovino to enjoy homemade ravioli stuffed with leeks and taleggio cheese, served in a simple tomato sauce. Along Tuscany’s western coastline, restaurants such as Il Romito in Livorno serve up a homely fish stew called cacciucco — a 500-year-old dish traditionally made using five or more types of fish in a red wine and tomato broth.

6. Sip freshly roasted coffee

Italy has an affinity for coffee and on almost every corner in Florence you’ll find coffee ‘bars’ in which you can quietly perch to people watch. The city is also home to the Accademia del Caffè Espresso , which features a coffee museum and an indoor coffee plantation, and also offers a selection of educational tasting sessions. Away from the city, learn more about Tuscan artisanal coffee and the finer details of the roasting and blending processes with a tour of Pienza Coffee in Val d’Orcia.

7. Peruse local markets

Intense and aromatic, Tuscany’s local food markets are sure to delight — piled high with humble but delicious ingredients, from bread and cheese to tomatoes and beans. While some markets such as Florence’s Mercato Centrale are open daily, smaller towns in the region host their weekly markets on varying days. In the city of Lucca, head to the MercoledìBio on Wednesdays — for organic fruit and vegetables, honey, olive oil, cold cuts, wine, bread and baked goods, as well as sheep’s, cow’s and goat’s cheese — or the Campagna Amica market on Thursdays — for fresh fish and seasonal vegetables, cheese, plants and flowers.

Related Topics

• FOOD TOURISM

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