best wineries to visit near montalcino

The best wineries in Montalcino

Browse through the best selection of outstanding wineries

Sanlorenzo - The best winery in Tuscany with pure tradition, authenticity, and an open outlook toward the future of winemaking

Fattoi Ofelio E Figli

Taste the passion in these family produced wines

Castello Tricerchi

600 years of history and a listed Italian castle

• Camigliano Castle

Producing luscious red wines in the ancient castle of the 13th century.

Tenute Silvio Nardi

Walk thorugh the charming vineyards thats that has density of 5200 vines per hectare.

Poggio Di Sotto

A Winery Inbetween the Ancient Volcano Amiata and the River Orcia

The incredible charm of a 17th-century villa that stands regally on the hills of Argiano.

Tenuta Pian Delle Ginestre

Explore the Ciacci family heritage in the heart of Montalcino

Tenuta Castelnuovo Tancredi

Roberto Cipresso Srl

The Wines and Vines of Roberto Cipresso

• Querce Bettiina

Tuscan high quality wine at its best

La Nascosta

Discover the essence of Val d'Orcia's winemaking heritage at La Nascosta, a family-owned estate and exquisite cellar blending tradition and innovation.

Best Cities to Visit in Montalcino, Italy

Map Of Montalcino Wineries

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Below we have provided a list of wineries in Montalcino open for visitors. You can find some reputable wineries near Naciatello and Civitella Marttima, 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 Montalcino. We hope you will discover what makes the region special and enjoy your exploration of reputable Montalcino. Montalcino wineries have cellar door sales and a great selection of wine tourism activities.

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Montalcino Wineries – My Top 5 Montalcino Wine Tours

Last updated on March 17th, 2024

Are you looking for the best Montalcino wineries to visit? Are you overwhelmed by the selection? It’s no surprise if you are! There are over 250 wineries in Montalcino alone. How is one to choose?

I have been living in Southern Tuscany for over ten years now and after years of participating in countless Montalcino wine tours and drinking the absolute best Brunello di Montalcino, I have come down to a solid list of my top five wineries in Montalcino.

I have chosen all of these Montalcino wineries based on my first hand, personal experience. Each one of these Montalcino wine tours stood out for me for one reason or another, all of which I will explain in detail. 

So if you are on the hunt for the best Brunello di Montalcino wineries to visit and don’t know where to start, you are in the right place. In this article, I will showcase these best wineries in Montalcino, providing details about arriving, best for, when to visit and what to expect. 

Are you ready to try some wine yet? 

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Montalcino Wines

When visiting Montalcino wineries, there are the wines that you will be trying:

Brunello di Montalcino 

Made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, this wine must be aged for at least two years in wooden barrels and at least 3 year in the glass bottle.

Brunello di Montalcino Riserva

Made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, the riserva is aged for the same two years in wooden barrels but then another 4 years in the glass bottle before going on the market. 

Rosso di Montalcino 

The rosso di Montalcino is made with 100% Sangiovese but only requires one year in the wooden barrels and 1 year in the bottle, meaning it’s a much younger wine. 

Bonus Grappa di Brunello di Montalcino

Grappa is a digestivo made from the pomace (grape skins) of Brunello di Montalcino.

Quick Guide To Montalcino Wineries

Montalcino Trip Planning: If you are hoping to also visit the village of Montalcino, read more about what to do and see in Montalcino .

Siro Pacenti

Podere Pelagrilli, 53024 Montalcino [email protected]

Siro Pacenti was one of the first Montalcino wineries I visited and despite several tours since, the experience has remained with me. Siro Pacenti was founded in 1970 By Siro Pacenti and is today managed by his son, Giancarlo, who is dedicated to preserving the tradition of local wine making with the addition of modern technology to maximize the winery’s potential. 

Siro Pacenti is a small winery, spread across 28 hectares, producing only about 60,000 bottles of two types of Brunello di Montalcino and one Rosso di Montalcino. 

The estate is set just outside of the village of Montalcino, offering sweeping views of the surrounding vineyards and the village from below. Their wine is exclusively aged in small French oak barrels. 

What sets Siro Pacenti apart is their formula of dividing the land into various plots (19 total), allowing for the most control over every single blend they produce.

Get in touch with Barbara, Giancarlo’s right handwoman and book a winery tour complete with tasting. The experience is intimate and curated with attention to detail. You won’t feel rushed and will walk away with one of the most memorable Montalcino wine tour experiences you can have in all of Southern Tuscany. 

Their tasting includes all three of their wines, including their two Brunello di Montalcino, and the Rosso di Montalcino.

Good To Know: Siro Pacenti is isolated and off the main road with a small yard in front of their offices. Children are welcome but I wouldn’t consider this Montalcino winery a particularly child-friendly estate because the tasting room is in a different building from the main office where the green grass area is. 

Strada Provinciale del Brunello, 45 53024 Montalcino (SI) [email protected]

Fuligni , just down the road from Siro Pacenti, is a wonderful intimate Montalcino wine tour to take part in. The 100 hectare estate is beautifully well-kept, curated and always welcoming to passerbys looking to pick up a bottle of wine to bring home as a gift or souvenir . 

Fuligni will be a similar experience to that of Siro Pacenti, offering intimate, curated wine tasting and tours for no more than six people on the property at the former convent Cottimelli. They do, however, offer the possibility to book a larger tour in another location, at Villa Giovanni at Semiti, just closeby. 

Fuligni has a wider selection of wines, making two Brunello di Montalcino, a Rosso di Montalcino and their S.J. Tuscan IGT, a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot. They also make a very good grappa. 

Fuligni does not ask for wine tours and tasting fees (on the property) but as in any Montalcino winery visit, it’s good etiquette to then purchase wine after they have been so gracious and generous with you. 

Good To Know: Unfortunately, Fuligni doesn’t offer the same stunning panoramic view as at Siro Pacenti.

Email them directly to find out more in terms of exclusive, large visits at the Villa and intimate, small party experiences at the winery. Children are welcome.

Conti Costanti

Localita’ Colle Al Matrichese, 53024 Montalcino SI [email protected]

Conti Costanti is a family run historic winery just outside the city center of Montalcino, specializing in Brunello di Montalcino. The winery offers a selection of tasting and tour options, with opportunities to host weddings, events, exclusive experiences and celebrations, all based on your needs and interests. 

Conti Costanti is my top pick for visitors who really know a lot about wine and who are looking to dive deep into the world of Brunello. At the same time, they offer more affordable tasting options with a wide selection of their various red wines.

Good To Know: Costanti is considered one of the most famous and best wineries for Brunello di Montalcino.

Conti Costanti also has two apartments and a large private Renaissance villa available for rent with access to a private Italian garden, making it the ideal base point of visiting Montalcino for both families with kids and larger groups who wish to organize an exclusive experience.

Conti Costanti stood out to me because of their dedication to creating one-of-a-kind experiences. No matter your agenda, needs or interests, they can make it happen, including vegan or vegetarian meals and great cooking lessons. 

Conti Costanti Montalcino Winery Visits And Tasting Formulas

Località Altesino n.54, 53024 Montalcino SI [email protected]

Altesino is one of the most famous and well-known Montalcino wineries that is well worth your time, especially if you are in a large group. Altestino Montalcino winery offers four different formulas for trying their various wines, all of which include a winery and estate tour. 

Altesino is more “commercial”, but don’t let that put you off. They have grown over the decades because of their dedication and hard work, making their wines popular domestically and overseas. 

My family came here after I was married over 10 years ago in Cetona as a post-wedding celebration. What better way than with wine tasting? We came in a large group, of about 20, and felt like it was the perfect number. Larger groups are split into two smaller groups to provide a better experience. 

I recommend Altesino if you are here in Tuscany with a large group and are looking for one the best Brunello di Montalcino wineries to visit. If you come with around 20 people, they can seat you at a couple of different tables for more leisurely and curated tasting. Large groups of up to 50 guests will be formulated buffet style with the same wines to taste. 

Good To Know: Altesino has a small yard for kids to play in and three apartments for rent as part of their estate, each for two people. 

Altesino Montalcino Winery Visits And Tasting Formulas

Santa giulia.

Località Santa Giulia, 48, 53024 Torrenieri, Montalcino SI [email protected]

Similar to Fuligni, Santa Giulia makes two Brunello di Montalcino (one riserva), a Rosso di Montalcino, a Tuscany IGT Merlot, and a grappa di Brunello. Santa Giulia produces only 30,000 bottles each year, guaranteeing quality over quantity. In addition, they also produce 1,000 bottles of extra virgin olive oil . 

This beautiful and small estate, located a bit further out from the village of Montalcino is worth the drive. I recommend Santa Giulia for groups and families who want to also pair their winery visit and tasting with a full Tuscan lunch.

Santa Giulia is happy to accommodate large groups, up to 25 people, including children who they love to have as well (the family has four children themselves!).  Cin cin !

Tip: If you aren’t up for a tasting or are just passing by, Santa Giulia welcomes guests to pop in and purchase their wines, olive oil and pasta without a reservation.

What stuck out to me most was Santa Giulia’s curated experience yet with several possibilities for tastings and lunches. Below, I have outlined their various tours and tastings.

Santa Giulia Montalcino Winery Visits And Tasting Formulas

Travelers Tip: Interested in when and how best to go wine tasting in Italy? Read Wine Tasting in Tuscany and Where to Drink Wine in Italy .

If you plan on visiting the village of Montalcino before or after your Montalcino winery tour, consider learning more about Things to Do in Montalcino and My Favorite Montalcino Restaurants .

Enjoy your visit to one of these meraviglioso Brunello wineries!

About The Author

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The Best Wineries to Visit in Tuscany

Few wine regions have the instant name recognition of Tuscany 's Chianti, first legally defined in 1716 (but recognized as a wine region as early as the 13th century). Some of Chianti's most acclaimed wines, however, don't carry its name. Only reds based on the Sangiovese grape can be called Chianti. Ambitious, rule-breaking Super-Tuscans, most often based on international grapes such as Cabernet, Merlot, and Syrah, carry the humbler IGT Toscana designation. Vintners near the town of Montalcino make Tuscany's greatest wine, Brunello di Montalcino, from a local Sangiovese clone, Brunello. Here, the best wineries to visit throughout the region. — Richard Nalley

Antinori Chianti Classico

Arguably the most widely known name in Tuscan wine around the world, Antinori's showplace winery in Bargino offers a wealth of visitor experiences, in addition to a "taste-your-way across Tuscany" lineup of wines in the tasting room. Book ahead for the various levels of guided tours and tastings, which include a short film, cellar visits, the art museum, and of course, wine tasting. The rooftop Rinuccio 1180 restaurant offers glass-wrapped views of the countryside. antinori.it

One of Italy's oldest wineries, dating to the mid-16th century, Montepulciano's Avignonesi has been rejuvenated since coming under new ownership in 2009 (among other things, the estate's 345 acres have converted to organic farming). The winery offers a broad range of bottlings — including its famous Vin Santo and Vino Nobile — plus a slate of tour, tasting, and dining opportunities. Closed January and February. avignonesi.it

Badia a Coltibuono

A former monastery, this impressive Chianti Classico estate is devoted now to the secular pursuits of wine and food (among other things, producing wonderful olive oil). Visitors here can choose from a menu of agro-tourism options, including stays in the comfortably refurbished ancient monastery (with a pool), wine courses, and a cooking school. The formal gardens are worth a stroll, too. coltibuono.com

Barone Ricasoli

Italy's oldest wine estate — 900 years and counting — is the one that essentially invented Chianti wine as we know it: The "Iron Baron" Bettino Ricasoli proposed it as a Sangiovese-based wine back in 1872. The Ricasoli family's imposing Brolio castle opens its gates these days for a variety of experiences, from drop-in tastings at the wine shop to elaborate tours and gourmet dinners. There is also a lovely and private house on the estate for two-night minimum stays. ricasoli.com

Biondi Santi, Tenuta Il Greppo

The history of the noble Biondi Santi family is inextricably bound up with the Brunello wines of Montalcino — it was an ancestor of the current proprietor, Jacopo, who isolated its revered Sangiovese Grosso grape clone in the 19th century. This most famous of Montalcino estates comes down on the side of tradition, producing monumental, long-lived wines for collectors. This extraordinary estate offers a range of tasting options with cellar visits, but it's a must to book ahead. biondisanti.it

This is the flagship property of Carmignano, and often its trendsetter — the first to introduce Cabernet Sauvignon to its blends, for instance. The excellent wine lineup here ranges from affordable everyday drinking, like the Barco Reale, to the muscular Super-Tuscan Ghiaie della Furba. The noble Bonacossi family offer their visitors an array of options, including guided tours with a tasting and lunch (book a terrace table at the Vinsantaia restaurant), and a culinary school. The estate also offers accommodations in two historic buildings, one a former hunting retreat of the Medicis. capezzana.it

Capo d'Uomo

These vineyards, painstakingly terraced on the sea cliffs of the Argentario promontory, are among the most spectacular anywhere. The wines are proprietary blends, two reds and a white, named for the winds that sweep across the vineyards. A stylish, personal-scale winery that also offers sea-view accommodations. grimaldisavelli.com

Castellare di Castellina

Media magnate Paolo Panerai's Chianti winery is one of Tuscany's most acclaimed estates, for its top-of-the-line Super-Tuscan I Sodi di S. Nicolo, its Chianti Classicos, and Vin Santos. Its vineyards are located in a natural amphitheater at some of Tuscany's highest altitudes. Book ahead for customized tours and picnics that take advantage of the estate's grounds and commitment to biodiversity. castellare.it

Castello Banfi

The Long Island-based Mariani family imports Italian wine to the U.S. — including such stalwarts as Riunite, Cella, and Bolla — and became vintners themselves 1978, buying up major holdings in Montalcino and across Tuscany. Today their portofilio includes an entire hamlet surrounding a medieval fortress they named Castello Banfi. This is a major wine tourism destination, which provides tasting opportunities for Banfi's extensive range of wines, plus restaurants, a boutique hotel, a glass museum, and a balsameria, where fine vinegar is made according to ancient methods. castellobanfiwineresort.it

Castello di Ama

Book ahead, and allow plenty of time, for a tour and tasting at this grand, deep-pocketed estate near Siena and its charming village. These wines, including the high-end Merlot L'Apparita and the Chianti Classicos, are highly regarded, with prices to match. You can also taste them at the wine bar L'Enoteca, in the village, or at a terrace table at Il Ristoro di Ama for lunch, but then you'd miss the impressive gardens, buildings, and 14 art installations on the estate's grounds. castellodiama.com

Castello di Nippozano/Frescobaldi

One of five Tuscan estates owned by the 30th generation of the Frescobaldi family, a Tuscan wine dynasty, and the region's largest vineyard owners. Wines like the wonderful Chianti Classico Riserva and the Mormoreto blend are enough of a draw here, but the atmospheric castle's picturesque perch above Pelago is added incentive, as are the comprehensive tours, tastings, and customizable private events. All of the Frescobaldi estates are open to visits (book ahead for tours). frescobaldi.com

Castigion del Bosco

The Ferragamo family (of fashion fame) founded this luxury resort on a 5,000-acre property in Montalcino's Val d'Orcia, whose history stretches back to 600 BC. Things have been considerably updated, with a top-notch Brunello di Montalcino winery, restaurants that source from the estate's own gardens, high-end accommodations (the resort is managed by Rosewood), and an 18-hole Tom Weiskopf golf course that takes full advantage of the rolling terrain. castigliondelbosco.com

Fattoria dei Barbi

The Colombini family has been making wine in Montalcino for 700 years, and its Brunellos and Morellino di Scansanos are among the region's best. A visit to the hilltop winery includes a museum devoted to the family and the wines of Montalcino. Stay on for a meal at the taverna, which serves local specialties, including the roasts that so perfectly complement these wines. fattoriadeibarbi.it

Fattoria La Loggia

Just south of Florence, this one-time Medici estate dating to 1427 is a complex of ancient stone buildings, walls, towers, and cellars overlooking a panoramic view of the Chianti hills. The estate's wines, including the Nearco Super-Tuscan and a celebratory spumante, share pride of place at this stylish agro-tourism destination with the owners' notable art collection. fattorialaloggia.com

Fattoria di Lamole

Welcoming and rustic, this non-boutique-ified winery and farm complex outside Greve occupies a lovely hillside surrounded by painstakingly stone-terraced vine-rows, silvery olive trees, and deep forests of chestnut and oak. The Chianti here, like the agro-tourism accommodations, is traditional and easy to enjoy. fattoriadilamole.it

Nestled in a picture-book setting in Chianti Classico's amphitheater-like Conca d'Oro (Golden Shell) valley, this is a large estate in Chianti terms, practicing organic and sustainable agriculture that extends not only to its vineyards, but to olive oil and cattle as well. The all-Sangiovese Flaccianello IGT is deservedly the star here, but the relatively more affordable wines down the line are sought-after, too. There are three guesthouses available for wine-country stays. fontodi.com

One of Tuscany's most familiar labels, Ruffino is also one of the most consistent of the large Chianti producers, turning out a vast selection of wines sourced from growers across the region. The firm owns numerous estates in Tuscany and typically receives visitors at Poggio Casciano, a 14th-century Tuscan villa just outside Florence with lovely grounds and a showplace barrel tunnel. Open weekdays only, by appointment. ruffino.com

Visitors interested in biodynamics and sustainability — not to mention soft-textured, full-flavored Vino Nobile di Montepulciano — should prioritize this exceptional estate southeast of Siena. It is open year-round for tours and tastings, with a kitchen that serves locavore lunches — the seasonal black truffles are from the estate — at the lovely terrace restaurant with its picture-window views. Another bonus: the multi-lingual guide staff. salcheto.it

Tenuta San Guido

The Marchese Mario Incisa's odd desire to duplicate First Growth Bordeaux on his swampy backwater estate in western Tuscany in the 1940s not only lead to arguably Italy's most famous wine, the much-imitated Cabernet Sauvignon-Cabernet Franc Sassicaia, but also touched off a land rush to the once-obscure northern Maremma reaches of Bolgheri. An appointment here is something of a pilgrimage for wine lovers, and there is also the allure of Italy's oldest nature sanctuary and the estate's historic buildings. tenutasanguido.com

Val delle Corti

Owner Roberto Bianchi is known as a traditionalist and Sangiovese loyalist — no Merlot here — and his organically farmed vineyards near Radda are at some of Chianti's highest elevations. "The Hut," a charming and well-appointed guesthouse on the property, offers both privacy and proximity for area touring. valdellecorti.it

Villa Pomona

A "heart of Tuscany" experience near Castellina, this lovely property produces worthy Chianti Classico (and fine olive oil) but enchants visitors with its age-old, rambling stone buildings and acres of diverse woodlands. Two guesthouses allow visitors to marinate in it all and to swim in the panoramic-view pool. fattoriapomona.it

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Montalcino: A Wine Tasting Itinerary

The unmistakable flavor of brunello.

Wines to Taste & Vineyards to Visit

The Italians would surely cringe, but the story of Tuscan classic, Brunello wine, and the American classic, Coca Cola, have some striking similarities: both “invented” by pharmacists who both wanted a new and improved type of beverage. Of course, to sum-up Brunello as a “beverage” is a bit reductive.

Below we offer to take you on a tour of this Tuscan classic with a brief introduction to where the wine producing zone is situated, what constitutes a Brunello wine, and a list of vineyards that make for a great wine tasting itinerary. Once you have explored the area around Montalcino  and savored your first sip then you can judge for yourself if it is more than “just a beverage.”

The Land of Rich & Plenty

Located less than 50 km south of Siena, the road to Montalcino passes through some of the most picturesque landscapes of Tuscany including the hills of the Val d’Orcia and the Creti Senesi .

The altitude and climate of the Montalcino region has provided an area where Sangiovese ripens more fully and consistently than anywhere else in Tuscany. These factors contribute to the body, color, extract and tannins commonly associated with Brunello di Montalcino.*

Positioned on a hilltop, the town of Montalcino dominates the valley with its medieval walls and the fortress from the late 1300s . It stretches to include the enchanting Abbey of Sant’Antimo to the south, with San Quirico just to the east of its borders and Bagno Petriolo just to the west.

The territory of Montalcino needs no coaxing to produce quality wines, in fact, archeological findings suggest that even the Etruscans were aware of the intrinsical delicious qualities of the land . The position permits ideal sun exposure which ripens the grapes perfectly for a product that is particularly suited to long periods of aging with a superior flavor, fragrance, and appearance.

The wine growing region of Montalcino covers 24,000 hectares and the square-shaped territory is bordered by the rivers Ombrone, Asso, and Orcia, however, only 15% (approximately 4,000 hectares) is cultivated with vineyards supporting over 200 producers!

What Makes a Wine worthy of the name Brunello

A fairly new “invention”, the Brunello wine was “created” in the mid-1800s after Clemente Santi decided to diversify the wine production in the area which concentrated mainly on a sweet white wine called Moscadello di Montalcino. His experiments resulted in a “bruno” or brown colored wine, thus the name Brunello.

It was in 1869 at the Agrarian Exhibition of Montepulciano that his wine, "a select red wine (Brunello) of 1865," was mentioned and received an award . For many, this is the date which marks the birth of the Brunello wines, standing out from other Sangiovese based wines due to its inclination towards longevity.

It quickly entered into the wine market becoming a worldwide symbol of quality "Made in Italy" .

Requirements

Brunello di Montalcino is made 100% from Sangiovese.

You really can’t get more basic than that. No other grapes are allowed in a Brunello wine , thus making it singular and different from the Chianti wines which require only 85% Sangiovese and permit a blend of other types of grapes.

In 1998, the requirements were set and these dictated that a Brunello wine be aged for 2 years and at least 4 months in a bottle before release on the market. Perhaps one of the unique characteristics of Brunello is, due to the climate and composition of the grape it is a wine high in tannins, and it actually requires aging ( sometimes up to 20 years ) before it is enjoyable to drink.  This is a striking difference to other wines, which are either not suitable for aging or are better when drunk "young".

What to expect when you taste a Brunello?

As the Italians would say, you should expect “un vino importante” in other words, a wine of prestige, superior quality with the ability to age well  for long periods of time.

Brunello di Montalcino is a visibly limpid, brilliant wine, with a bright garnet colour. It has an intense perfume, persistent, ample and ethereal. One can recognize scents of undergrowth, aromatic wood, berries, light vanilla and jam. To the taste the wine has an elegant harmonious body, vigorous and racy, it is dry with a lengthy aromatic persistence.**

Other Wines in the Area

Long before there was Brunello, there was Moscadello di Montalcino DOC , a wine that has been praised by several famous persons, demonstrating that it was recognized both in Italy and abroad and it is a part of the history of the area. It is produced in three different types: Still, Sparkling and Late Harvest and it is a white wine made with 100% Muscat Blanc grapes .

Another specialty wine is the Sant’Antimo DOC , which is made with any white or red grape variety authorized to grow in Tuscany as single-varietal wine or blend (labeled Bianco/white or rosso/red). In addition, the grapes must come from the Montalcino area and it must be bottled within the province of Siena. In fact, it is a very wide-ranging denomination that covers many wines both red and white as well as vin santo .

And then you also have a Rosso Montalcino , which similar to the Brunello is 100% Sangiovese. The main difference is that even though it can be aged, this is a wine designed to drink young. This is an excellent alternative to the more prestigious and complex Brunello and you can expect a flavor which is “harmonious and dry, with vigor and freshness and good persistence.”

Who to Add to your Itinerary

With over 200 producers in this specific area - it is (almost) impossible to even think about visiting them all. Though we wouldn’t fault you if you want to try!

However, if you are traveling with limited time then, perhaps you might want to narrow it down just a bit.

Community Museum & the Story of Brunello

Where: Hours: TUESDAY to FRIDAY 3:30pm - 7:00pm SATURDAY – SUNDAY & HOLIDAYS 11 am -1 pm to 3:30pm - 7:00pm from March 26 to October 31, 2016

Before heading straight to the vineyards, you want to stop by the " Museo della Comunità di Montalcino e del Brunello ".  Carved out of an old stable on the farm of Fattoria dei Barbi, this museum will guide you through the story of not just the wine, but the community, the people, their culture and their traditions .  This tour through time will give you a new perspective with which to access the scenery, the vineyards, and the locals as you tour through their homes.

The selection below is by no means the only ones to visit, they are just a few of the ones we found interesting. Booking a tasting is always highly recommended , you can try just stopping-in, but be advised that these are working farms and they don’t always have someone available to show you around and assist with a wine tasting. If you have your heart set on any one of these cellars or if you really want to taste the wines on the property, then call ahead and save the date .

Biondi-Santi

This is the founding father of Brunello and still using traditional harvest methods, the vendemmia is carried out entirely by hand and carried in baskets to the end of the row of vines, where pickers select the grapes, bunch by bunch. Unfortunately, the winery is no longer open to the public and tastings have to be planned elsewhere of their wines (in the wineshops in town). The website now reflects info on their wines.

Official Website

A vineyard with charm and personality, in view of Montalcino. The cantina (wine cellar) makes quite the presentation and comes complete with a ghost story. They have an extensive range of wines including a brandy, grappa, vin santo and IGT wines.

Contact Info for Altesino

Castello di Banfi

This mammoth wine producer may not be one of the more traditional players on the market - but it definitely is one of the larger, which produce a diverse variety of wines throughout Italy.

Contact Info for Castello Banfi

Bartoli Giusti

One of the more antique names in the area, the brother and sister team at Bartoli Giusti are carrying on a tradition for over 100 years, with only Sangiovese grapes. You can visit their store in the center of Montalcino at via Ricasoli 19, in the antique grain warehouse of the family.

Contact Info for Bartoli Giusti

Paradiso di Frassina

Giancarlo Cignozzi otherwise known as The Vine Whisperer has spearheaded the music therapy experiments for the growing of the grapes which have gained international acclaim, as has his wines. Weather permitting, your visit will begin with a walk around the Mozart vineyard, located directly opposite the hill of Montalcino.

Click here to contact Paradiso di Frassina directly

Azienda Agricola Uccelliera

With just 6 ht of vineyards, this family-run farm infuses passion not just for the wine production but for the land and its role in their lives.

Contact Info for Uccelliera

Tenuta Fanti

Another vineyard which boasts of over a hundred years of winemaking, with over 300 ha of land, the Fanti family invites you to visit their cantina.

Contact Info for Tenuta Fanti

Máté Winery

Not just Brunello - but award-winning Merlots and Syrahs...that’s what you will find at this exquisitely restored farmhouse near Montalcino.

Contact Info for Mate Wine near Montalcino

* M. Ewing-Mulligan & E. McCarthy, Italian Wines for Dummies, pp. 159-–61, Hungry Minds, 2001.

** Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino

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Montalcino Wine Map

The production area coincides with the communal territory of Montalcino. Distributed over that territory, according to the best viticultural tradition of the environment and marvelously inserted into the landscape, the Brunello estates offer numerous opportunities to visitors interested in wine as well as natural beauty. The climate is typically Mediterranean with precipitation concentrated in the months of May, October, and November (700 millimeters annually on average). In winter, snow is not rare above an altitude of 400 meters. The strip of the hill of moderate altitude, where the greater part of the winemaking estates is situated, is not affected by fog, ice, or late frost as are the surrounding valleys, while the normal, persistent winds ensure the best conditions for the health of the plants. The fundamentally mild climate and a large number of days of serene weather during the entire vegetative cycle assure the gradual and complete ripening of the grape clusters. The main variety used is Sangiovese Grosso , a clonal section of Sangiovese, a grape used in all red Tuscan wines.

Vittorio Del Bono Venezze ITALY AND WINE founder

See also the following wine tours:

• Smal-Group Wine Tours Brunello Wine Tour
• Private Wine Tour Private Montalcino Wine Tours

Montalcino Wine Map

The best Brunello wineries to visit in Montalcino

Fanti Tenuta San Filippo Loc. Podere Palazzo, 14 53024 Castelnuovo Berardenga (SI)  Tel: +39 0577 322545 https://www.tenutacorsignano.it

Fattoria dei Barbi  Loc. Podernovi, 170 53024 Montalcino (SI) Tel:+39 0577 841111 http://www.fattoriadeibarbi.it

San Polino Localita' Pod. S. Polino, 163 53024 Montalcino (SI) Tel:+39 0577 835775 http://www.sanpolino.it

Tenuta Le Potazzine  Località Le Prata, 262 53024 Montalcino (SI) Tel:+39 0577 846168 https://lepotazzine.com

Podere Il Cocco Località Villa a Tolli 53024 Montalcino (SI) Tel: +39 327 455 6281 http://www.ilcocco.it

Az Agr. Capanna Loc. Capanna, 333 53024 Montalcino (SI) Tel:+39 0577 848298 http://www.capannamontalcino.com

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THE 10 BEST Montalcino Wineries & Vineyards

Wineries & vineyards in montalcino.

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1. Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona

2. Castiglion del Bosco Winery

3. Winery Solaria Patrizia Cencioni

4. Máté Winery

5. Tenuta Fanti

6. Poggio Rubino

7. Podere Le Ripi

8. Altesino

9. Fattoria dei Barbi

10. Enoteca la Fortezza di Montalcino

11. Il Cocco

12. Tenuta Corte Pavone

13. Azienda Agricola Capanna di Cencioni

14. Casanuova delle Cerbaie

15. Enoteca di Piazza Wine Room

16. Caparzo Winery

17. Tenuta CastelGiocondo

18. Azienda Agricola Uccelliera

19. Col d'Orcia

20. Casanova di Neri

21. Castello Banfi - L' Enoteca

22. Cordella in Montalcino Wine Resort

23. Azienda Tornesi

24. Mastrojanni Winery

25. Castello Romitorio

26. Casato Prime Donne

27. Az. Agr. Sesta di Sopra

28. Biondi-Santi Tenuta Greppo

29. Argiano

30. NostraVita

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14 iconic Brunello wine estate to visit in Montalcino

Among vineyards, barrel cellars and unique stories. a journey to discover the wine that the whole world envies us.

The fortunes of Montalcino wine began in the Middle Ages thanks to its location on the Francigena, the pilgrims' route to Rome. And its good wine was much appreciated. Until the beginning of the 19th century, the must was the sweet and sparkling Moscadello, produced from white Muscat grapes. The birth of Brunello took place only in the 19th century, thanks to Clemente Santi's studies on the clone of Sangiovese Grosso. In addition to the Biondi Santi family, the Padelletti family (the first to put printed labels on bottles), the Paccagnini family, the Colombini family (pioneers in mail-order sales), the Caetani Lovatelli family and other families contributed to improving the quality of Brunello di Montalcino, a great wine for ageing, adored throughout the world for its power and longevity.

Biondi Santi Tenuta Greppo Unforgettable bottles have been corked in this cradle of historic Brunello di Montalcino production. The two reserves, 2004 and 2006, in particular, represent for many connoisseurs and sommeliers special vintages, worthy representatives of this wine of few comparisons, with its fruity, mineral scent and great depth on the palate.

Ciacci Piccolomini In Castelnuovo dell'Abate, a hamlet of Montalcino, stands the seventeenth-century Palazzo del Vescovo, which became the property of the Ciacci Piccolomini of Aragon in 1877. Inherited by Giuseppe Bianchini in 1985 due to the extinction of the family, it became the residence and headquarters of the farm. Today the palace is a wine cellar/museum that can be visited by appointment, where the most prestigious wines destined for long ageing rest in the ancient underground rooms.

Casato Primedonne Historic property, now in the hands of Dornatella Cinelli Colombini, 40 hectares in which 17 hectares of Sangiovese vineyards and the cellar for the vinification and barrel aging of Rosso and Brunello di Montalcino. The cellarers are all women, including the oenologist, a unique feature in Italy. Another special feature, which makes the visit to the cellar unique, are the frescoes on the history of Montalcino, which intersperse the barrels of Brunello. The guide tells tourists the little secrets of Brunello, stories and legends of this ancient territory.

Luce Estate This is the jewel in the Marquis Lamberto Frescobaldi's crown in Montalcino. The estate combines, in a perfect balance, the tradition of one of the world's historic wine families, and modernity, understood as a look that is always attentive to the future and aimed at making the most of what this exceptional land can offer. This is the birthplace of Luce, a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot grapes, which, in addition to being the first wine produced in Montalcino, is the iconic product of the Frescobaldi brand. Romitorio Castle A temple, a monastery, a manor that has stood among the vineyards of Montalcino since Etruscan times, and finally the workshop of the master of the Italian Transavanguardia, Sandro Chia. A postcard place. Drinking his Brunello is an aesthetic experience that begins with the designer labels. Chia was the first to decorate them. Castiglion del Bosco An entire medieval hamlet owned by Massimo and Chiara Ferragamo since 2003, transformed into a luxury hotel with a spa, gourmet restaurants, a golf course and an extraordinary wine cellar with the private cellars of top guests, who keep their bottles stored there, as if in a vault, so they can taste them here. At harvest time we can all have Haverst Experiences and during the rest of the year guided tours of the winery and tastings.

Casanova di Neri Not only a distinguished Brunello di Montalcino winery, but a true centre for wine research and brand promotion. The two labels, Cerretalto and Tenuta Nuova, are different and complementary for some of the best Brunello ever. The Etichetta Bianca is famous for its high volume but still high quality.

The Cerbaiona Renowned throughout the world, Diego Molinari's winery brings to the market a rare and prized Brunello, with a high cost but which unlocks the benefits of Sangiovese on the palate like few others. Defined by some as epic, La Cerbaiona's Brunello is one of the most awarded wines ever.

Banfi Castle Owned by the Mariani family since 1978, the winery uses the most advanced technology to preserve the richness of the grapes. There are more than 7000 barriques and barrels are located. Next to the production areas, the Castello di Poggio alle Mura is now completely renovated. Visits consist of a tour of the winery and conclude with tastings of Rosso di Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino Castello Banfi and Poggio all'Oro, together with samples of local cured meats and cheeses in the Enoteca Banfi, or with lunches at the La Taverna restaurant and dinners under the fascinating vaults of the Sala dei Grappoli.

Uccelliera Andrea Cortonesi has created the fruit of his labours day after day, earning critical praise and an adoring public for his Brunello di Montalcino. A wine made of depth, rich but not heavy, balanced and renowned for its elegance and power.

The Marroneto The prized cru of the Madonna delle Grazie, makes a unique and high value Brunello di Montalcino, a reference for many in the industry. Alessandro Mori leads this label that is winning over more and more tasters and Sangiovese enthusiasts.

Poggio di Sotto A historic winery, for some years now part of the Bertarelli-Tipa constellation of Collemassari. Here we produce one of the most solid Brunellos, of great depth from a young age, which with ageing show a rare strength and harmony. The bottles of Rosso are also famous, competing in exquisiteness with those of Brunello.

Mastrojanni Winery Great wines from tradition, with prices that are certainly not easy to buy but which express the value of a Brunello di Montalcino that is reliable in terms of quality, even for the Rosso. Famous is the Schiena d'Asino, historical pearl of these vineyards.

Soldera Case Basse Mythical producer of selected Brunello, expensive, rare even in the taste that today has become more traditional than in the past. The 2001 and 2004 vintages are celebrated, making them a must for Brunello tasters at the highest level.

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Top 5 wineries in Montalcino!

The hill upon which Montalcino sits has probably been settled since Etruscan times. Its first mention in historical documents in 814 AD suggests there was a church here in the 9th century, most likely built by monks associated with the nearby Abbey of Sant’Antimo. The population grew suddenly in the middle of the tenth century, when people fleeing the nearby town of Roselle took up residence in the town.

The town takes its name from a variety of oak tree that once covered the terrain. The very high site of the town offers stunning views over the Asso, Ombrone and Arbia valleys of Tuscany, dotted with silvery olive orchards, vineyards, fields and villages. The lower slopes of the Montalcino hill itself are dominated by highly productive vines and olive orchards.

Here are some of the top 5 must-visit wineries in Montalcino

1. fuligni winery.

The Fuligni Estate spreads over approximately one hundred fully-cultivated hectares of land in an almost continual strip on the eastern side of Montalcino where, historically, the most authentic production of Brunello emerged. The vines, which extend over ten hectares, are primarily located at Cottimelli at altitudes varying from 380 to 450 meters above sea level. Here, the land, which predominantly faces east, belongs entirely to the Santa Fiora (marl) geological formation of Eocene origin and is made up of a prevalently rocky terrain.

2. Renieri di Montalcino Winery

The Renieri tenuta, or winery estate, comprises 128 hectares in the southern quadrant of Montalcino, on slopes that face Monte Amiata.Thirty hectares of vineyards are planted at an elevation of 350-420 metres, their exposures forming an arc from southeast to southwest.Following the grubbing-up of the old vineyards, new vines were planted in 1998, at a density of 6,000 vines per hectare.The local soils are largely volcanic, with strata of schistous limestone and rock. Classic to the area are soils made up of the reddish terra rossa, clays, and calcareous tufa.

3. Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona Winery

The entire estate, extending over 220 hectares of which 55.5 are in vines and 40 in olive groves, has all the typical characteristics of the Tuscan countryside adorned with rolling hills, pastures and woods with unforgettable colours. Set between Arna hill and the Orcia River to the south-east, it offers a unique panorama with the beautiful contour of Mount Amiata in the background. Wild animals, scents of flowers and plants and the typical farmhouses dotted around, create a peaceful and calm atmosphere in this area.

4. San Filippo Winery

The Wine Estate San Filippo lies in the heart of the most beautiful part of the Tuscan countryside, just two kilometres from Montalcino. This landscape, with its magnificent vineyards where the Brunello is made, and the yellow cornfields of the Val d’Orcia, has been declared a World Heritage site by Unesco. Offering a perfect combination of nature, art and the finest Tuscan food and wine, it is the ideal place to spend a relaxing holiday. The famous art cities of Siena and Florence are within easy reach of the Wine Estate San Filippo, as well as enchanting smaller towns such as Bagno Vignoni, Pienza, Montepulciano, and the wild coastal region of the Maremma.

5.Canalicchio di Sopra

Canalicchio di Sopra is the tale of a winery that covers the history of winemaking in Montalcino over the last 50 years, its growth and its worldwide success: the first bottle of Canalicchio di Sopra Brunello di Montalcino was produced in 1966. In 1967, Canalicchio di Sopra was one of the twelve founders of the Consorzio del Vino Brunello di Montalcino.

WIA - The Wine International Association

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A Guide to Montalcino: Tuscany’s Top Wine Town

Home > Blog > A Guide to Montalcino: Tuscany’s Top Wine Town

An enchanting little utopia rested atop a hill in the province of Siena, Montalcino is a fantastic destination for those looking to sample some of the world-renowned red wine produced in Tuscany . Picture a delightful little town that is full of idyllic cobblestone streets, breathtaking views over the surrounding valley, a captivating medieval fortress and, of course, an exemplary wine scene.  

One of the best towns in Italy for wine connoisseurs, Montalcino is the celebrated birthplace of Brunello di Montalcino – a world-renowned red wine known for its flavors and notes of coffee. Having played a huge role in making the town what it is today, visitors can enjoy plenty of opportunities to sample the famous wine variety at numerous nearby vineyards and wineries.

But Montalcino isn’t just a hot spot for wine lovers. From archery competitions to world-class wineries, there is so much more to this remarkable Tuscan town! 

If you’re already falling for Montalcino’s charm but would like to hear more before planning a trip, we’ve gathered together some key information to help you plan the most unforgettable visit.

History of Montalcino

Inhabited since pre-Roman times, Montalcino is a little town with a fascinating history. As well as producing wine for over a millennium, this place is home to a magical 14th-century fortress, an ancient Basilica, the spectacular tower of San Giovanni and an idyllic Romanesque chapel.

Sitting at a strategic point along the road to Rome, Montalcino played a crucial defensive role back in the day, acting as a stronghold for the nearby city of Siena. In fact, the town’s beautiful fortress was built to protect the Siena republic’s southernmost border.

The monument went on to become a symbol of the town’s pride after protecting hundreds of refugees who fled here during the attack of the Florentines. The town managed to fight off attacks for four years and even declared the second republic of Siena to have been repaired here before finally falling under the rule of the Florentines until the unification of Italy in 1861.

How To Get To Montalcino

Just 50km south of Siena, Montalcino is a fantastic place to stop off for a taste of classic Italian charm. There are several options for getting to this little town.

The nearest airport to Montalcino is Perugia San Francesco d’Assisi Airport in Perugia. To travel to the town, all you need to do is hop on a bus or taxi from the airport. 

It only takes about an hour and a half to drive to the town from here, and you will be able to take in magical views of the gorgeous Tuscan landscapes on the way. Alternatively, you can opt to take a public bus which will take longer but is a better option for budget travelers.

If you are hoping to reach Montalcino on a railway adventure, there are around 10 trains each day running from Siena to the nearby station of Buonconvento. Taking the Grosseto line, this part of the journey takes around 25 minutes.

Upon arriving at Buonconvento, you will then have to jump on a bus that will take you to Montalcino. Fortunately, the bus timetable tends to coincide with the train arrivals, so you won’t have to wait for too long.

If you want to stick to bussing it the whole way to Montalcino, around 12 buses a day set off from Siena to the town on a journey that takes about two hours. While some of the buses take you directly to Montalcino, others require you to change at Buonconvento. So, make sure you check the timetable carefully and plan your journey accordingly.

You could always find your way to Montalcino by jumping in the driving seat and skirting along the Tuscan roads in a rental car. Altogether, the drive from Siena to Montalcino is 41km and should take just under an hour.

The Best Things to Do in Montalcino

There are plenty of things to do in this beautiful town, from visiting historical sites to shopping in busy town squares. To make sure you don’t miss out on any key attractions, here are our top 3 things to do in Montalcino. 

Check Out The Piazza del Popolo 

While all of the enchanting little streets of Montalcino are buzzing with quintessential Italian ambience, the atmosphere of the main square, Piazza del Popolo, is particularly special. Over 700 years old, the gothic loggia is a true display of architecture at its finest.

While visiting, be sure to get an up-close look at the town hall’s spectacular clock tower. For those who are feeling a little adventurous, you’ll have the opportunity to climb to the top of the magnificent building, from which you will be treated to spectacular panoramic vistas of the Piazza del Popolo and the bustling streets below. 

Visit La Fortezza

Pay a visit to La Fortezza, the town’s medieval fortress. An important symbol of town pride over the years since the town’s four-year resistance to Florentine rule, the monument is now recognized as one of the best things to see in Montalcino. 

Holding such a special place in the hearts and identities of its townspeople, it comes as no surprise that La Fortezza tends to be at the top of every tourist’s to-do list. What’s more, there are plenty of nearby places to pop in for a wine tasting as well as plenty of open space for the kids to explore. So, if you are traveling as a family, you can have the delight of sampling the local vino while the children make the most of the gorgeous surrounding landscapes.

See The Abbey of Sant’Antimo 

A spectacular former Benedictine monastery, The Abbey of Sant’Antimo lies a mere 10km or 15-minute drive from Montalcino. However, many visitors rave about the fantastic hike from the town to the abbey during which you can take in fantastic views ofthe dazzling Tuscan landscapes and catch a tan.

However you choose to get the abbey, the Romanesque architecture is set to blow you away. Constructed from travertine stone, the marvelous building is nestled in the most idyllic of settings; set amidst secular olive groves and peaceful wheat fields in what creates the most peaceful of surroundings.

Festivals and Events in Montalcino

Montalcino plays host to plenty of festivals during the year, so if you are not sure when to visit Tuscany, it might be worth booking your vacation with these exciting events in mind! We have listed a few below that might pique your interest.

February – Benvenuto Brunello 

Calling all wine enthusiasts, the Benvenuto Brunello is the event in Montalcino you should plan to experience! Every February, everyone gathers in the town center in honor of the new vintage of Brunello di Montalcino being launched for public consumption.

Expect the atmosphere to be buzzing with excitement as journalists, bloggers, sommeliers, influencers and – of course –  the general public, gather around in celebration of the great times (and great wine) to come. 

August – Torneo d’Apertura delle Cacce

A bit of a warm-up event for the Sagra del Tordo, the Torneo d’Apertura delle Cacce (or the Opening of the Hunting Season) is an important date in the calendar of any Montalcino local. Held in August, the town’s four neighborhoods, Borghetto, Travaglio, Ruga and Pianello, challenge each other to a crossbow competition in front of the fortress. 

Prepare to see the locals dressed to the nines in their medieval gear, parading around the town while donning velvet robes, piebald tights and elaborate bodices. Of course, you’ll also have the opportunity to get involved with folk dancing in front of the main square.

October – Sagra del Tordo

A tradition going back to 1958, the Sagra del Tordo, or ‘The Song Thrush Festival’, takes place every year during the last weekend of October. The celebrations commemorate the moment when hunters and falconers used to return home with their prey, which sometimes came in the form of thrushes, hence the name!

These days, the main event of the festival consists of people from each district slipping into their regional colors for an archery competition. There is also a parade, lots of medieval costumes and a lot of food involved in what is set to be fun for all the family.

Wineries and Vineyards in Montalcino

While Tuscany is known to be one of the best wine regions in Italy to visit , its little town of Montalcino has gained quite a reputation for itself. The world-renowned grape varieties of the town have played a huge role in building its prosperity.

The popularity of the wine has resulted in the town becoming world-famous and recognized as the birthplace of some of the finest red wines from Tuscany. Made only from the Sangiovese grape variety, which can be found almost everywhere in the Montalcino region, this wine is truly exceptional and simply has to be sampled during your visit.

Here’s what you’ve all been waiting for: a run-through of the best wineries and vineyards in Montalcino. Prepare to be impressed, as this little town is home to some of the best wine tasting tours in Tuscany.

Il Palazzone

Owned by the Parsons family, Il Palazzone is a must-visit for any wine lovers. You won’t just be blessed with the opportunity to try some Brunello, but the owners, Marco and Laura, will also be able to tell you all about the wine and its history in what is sure to be a fascinating experience. 

The estate actually has three separate vineyards in different parts of Montalcino, so their Brunello is infused with an exquisite combination of grapes that have been harvested from different terrains. The area that you’ll be exploring lies just 1km from the town center and has a small store on-site where you can purchase a delightful selection of vintages as well as olive oil and grappa.

An organic winery set just a short walk from the village, Casa Raia has a fascinating history and lots of unique wine varieties that easily make it one of the best vineyards in Montalcino. 

Many years ago, Ludmilla Temertey was searching for a home in Tuscany and stumbled upon these laboring vines. Seeing the potential, Ludmilla took over the land and was able to give it a whole new lease of life as a winemaking business.

These days, the vineyards and winery are run by her daughter and son-in-law who have replenished the grapes and restored them to their former glory. In fact, the couple are now producing a wonderful range of natural wines that you’ll have to try during your visit.

Biondi Santi

If you are a bit of a vintage wine fanatic and prefer the classic varieties, Biondi Santi is where you should head. The winery is known to be home to bottles that date back to 1888, which is the year when the very first editions of Brunello di Montalcino were ever made!

Your guide will lead you through the enchanting landscapes and estate, bestowing you with knowledge of the history of the winery. Bear in mind that, as Biondi Santi is rather prestigious and a bit of a celeb in the wine world, you will definitely need to book your tour in advance.

Pian Dell-Orino

For an understated and relaxed introduction to the history of Brunello di Montalcino, try Pian Dell-Orino , home to bio-dynamic winemaking techniques. The vineyards here house three different types of soil, each connected to a specific geological formation that is able to give their wines such an exceptional flavor.

Expect to be guided through the grounds and blown away by the stunning sight of the 5.5 hectares of vineyard, 3.5 hectares of forest and enchanting olive trees in what is an incredibly bio-diverse landscape.

A dreamy paradise of dazzling medieval architecture and world-famous wines, Montalcino is easily one of the most beautiful towns in Tuscany and a fantastic place to visit during your Italian vacation. Although the exquisite drinks offered might well be enough to draw you in, this remarkable Tuscany town has so much more to offer beyond being home to some of the most highly renowned red wines from the region. 

With spectacular clocks, breathtaking abbeys, a bustling town center and a wide array of fantastic events going on throughout the year, there is certainly something for everyone in this enchanting part of the world.

If you’re hoping to take a trip to Tuscany and visit magical towns such as Montalcino, get in touch with Italy4Real and speak to a member of our team for personalized advice and help planning a bespoke trip.

About the Author

Rem Malloy started Italy4real back in 1995 with his mother, Deborah de Maio.

He specialises in Italian tours as well as customised tours to France, England, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Greece and Spain. He was also featured in the Travel Channel show Mysteries at The Museum in 2016.

Rem has family in Italy and his mothers home town is Cava di Terrani, near the Amalfi Coast. The family has a street named after them in Sorrento, Via Luigi de Maio; a relative who was mayor of Sorrento.

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Montalcino wine tour: Wineries, restaurants and hotels

Wineries to visit.

Plan a wine tour around the hill-top town that has given its name to one of Italy's best known wines. Here's our guide on where to visit, eat and stay...

If you’re planning a Montalcino wine tour, our guide will help you find the best wineries to visit, top hotels to stay at, and restaurants to eat in.

How to get there

Fly into Florence or Pisa airport.

Drive from Florence to Montalcino in about two hours; Pisa to Montalcino takes about half an hour longer.

The nearest city is Siena, which is an hour’s drive.

Brunello di Montalcino 2013: Report and top wines

Montalcino wine tour: travel guide, biondi santi.

There is only one place to start: Biondi Santi , five minutes southwest of Montalcino by car.

Timelessness is what denotes Tenuta Greppo, the noble birthplace of Brunello as testified by an 1869 certificate in the brick-vaulted tasting room, the first documented mention of ‘Brunello’. Upon appointment, free tours are available around the historic winery, from the vinification room, with its cement tanks, to the extraordinary and grand 19th-century Slavonian oak barrels in the ageing cellars.

Learn how Biondi Santi only labels its bottles just before sale to prevent them from deteriorating, and about its exclusive ricolmatura service, offered to collectors who can choose to have their bottles of riserva topped up over time.

Tours and tastings available Monday – Friday, closed in August and on holidays. Book in advance . 

Also pivotal in putting Montalcino on the wine destination map is Banfi , just 20 minutes away – take the scenic La Maremmana strada bianca route if you’re not afraid of a few bumps.

Banfi. Credit: Banfi

It is thanks to New York exporters, the Mariani family, that Brunello has become the internationally renowned entity that it is today. Take time to unwind over a leisurely lunch with estate wine-matching at Castello Banfi’s classic Taverna, or you could simply stop by the adjacent Enoteca for a themed degustazione.

If you have time, the winery tour impresses by the sheer vastness of the space purpose designed to welcome visitors, the innovative Horizon micro-vinification project with composite vats in oak and stainless steel, and the silent restfulness of the barrique cellar.

Guided tours available by appointment Monday – Friday, 4:00 pm from March 25 to November 12 (except holidays) and Monday – Friday , 3:30 pm from January 7 to March 24 and November 13 to December 17 (except holidays). 

Le Ragnaie. Credit: http://leragnaie.com/it/

Back on the road to Montalcino you will come to comely Le Ragnaie ( visits by appointment ), whose old vines and ventilated location manage to conjure up one of the sagest Brunello expressions of the moment.

Owned by Riccardo Campinoti and his American wife Jennifer, the winery is a handy place to stay with its peaceful apartments, pool and expanses of happy, healthy vineyards.

Visits, tastings and tours by appointment.

Stella di Campalto

A quarter of an hour southwest, past the Romanesque abbey of Sant’Antimo, with Monte Amiata standing strong in the distance, Stella di Campalto ( visits by appointment ) quietly plays Gregorian chants to her spontaneously fermenting biodynamic Sangiovese, an otherworldly wine of divine finesse, whether as Rosso or Brunello.

Contact in advance for visits and tours .

When to visit

If music is your thing, mid-July is the time to visit Montalcino for the Jazz & Wine showcase organised by Banfi ( see above ) in the monumental medieval fortress.

Restaurants and shops

Re di macchià, montalcino.

It’s pici pasta all the way at this local favourite in the middle of Montalcino. Reasonably priced. +39 0577 846 116

Trattoria Il Leccio

Just a 15-minute drive south of Montalcino, and on the way to Sant’Antimo, this Sant’Angelo in Colle trattoria serves up homemade pasta dishes in an old farmhouse. www.illeccio.net

Osticcio. Credit: www.osticcio.it/

Osteria Osticcio, Montalcino

Think cured meat platters and hearty ribollita at this well-stocked wine bar in the centre of town. www.osticcio.it

Franci Bio, Montalcino

Natural wine and organic products are all you’ll find at this attractive shop in the town’s historic centre. www.francibio.com

Villa San Giuseppe, Stella di Campalto

Fall asleep beneath the terracotta tiles of this family-run boutique winery south of Montalcino. www.stelladicampalto.it

Podere Brizio

Expect country chic at its best at this winemaking gem near the Banfi estate, southwest of Montalcino. www.poderebrizio.it

Castiglion del Bosco. Credit: Castiglion del Bosco

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco

Founded by Massimo and Chiara Ferragamo, this five-star Tuscan village resort near Montalcino has sophisticated suites, a golf course, a winery, spa and two restaurants. www.castigliondelbosco.com

Helen Farrell is editor-in-chief of The Florentine . Edited for Decanter.com by Ellie Douglas. 

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Where to taste Montalcino's best wines

Wine tasting in montalcino.

The wines of the lands of Montalcino are famous all over the world and the “ Brunello di Montalcino ” represents the excellence of the wines of our country. The beautiful panoramas of Tuscany , its natural conformations, climate and terroir give the wine unique characteristics in the world.

Montalcino is a cute little medieval village. The nectar of Bacchus has helped to bring the beautiful panoramas and the rich history of Tuscany to the world. Learn all there is to know, to see and to do in Montalcino here.

Visitors and wine lovers gather here to taste the many wines produced in Tuscany and the Crete Senese .

Best wineries in Montalcino – where to taste the wines

The cellars that produce the excellent wine on the territory of Montalcino are numerous. We could never named them all. There are some we enjoy again and again the pleasure of a wine tour with. They all propose special wine tour, full of history and emotions. All can be found and tried while enjoying a handcraft traditional Toscan meal at our restaurant La Vecchia Posta .

Let’s dig in and see who are those wineries, special to us.

We have particular affinity for the family-run winery “ Nostra Vita ” located 5 minutes away from Montalcino. Driving by a truly artitic mind, the owners have created a very special atmosfere and collaborate with artist from all other the world. They produce around 10 000 bottles a year, so very little for a winery in Montalcino. That allow them to have great control and handmake most of the process, from the fields decorated with art up to the “imbotigliamento” – the wine bottling process. Their wine is said to be part of the best.

Wine tour in Montalcino In the cute village of Montalcino itself you can find many wine bars and wine seller. Many are familly run business and know very well the region.

Bolsignano winery , also a family run winery, produces Rosso and Brunello di Montalcino in respect of the tradition and the surrounding nature. They cultivate around 3 ha (7,5 acres) of land and care for about 10 ha (28 acre) of forest. The friendlyness of Sara, the mother of the familly, makes for a great wine tasting, far away from any pompous mise en scène. A truly unique Italian wine tasting.

We also like Ciacci Piccolomini wines. They offer beautiful wine tasting and visit to their cellar. They are very well organised and their sommelier skillful. We like to reccomend them to the guests of our Relais in Bagno Vignoni thermal medieval village .

The good Montalcino wine is born in the vineyard and grows in the cellar. Two fundamental moments treated professionally and with great passion by the Solaria winery . A wine tour not to miss.

In the heart of the Val d’Orcia, just 5 km from S.Quirico d’Orcia and Bagno Vignoni, Poggio al Vento farmhouse and winery offers wines and extra virgin olive oils tastings.

At the foot of the walls of Montalcino, Bruno Dalmazio wine shop offers a wide range of Tuscan wines and more. In the adjacent roomit is always possible to taste a variety of wines by the glass.

Mastrojanni winery awaits you near the San Antimo abbey, immersed in the countryside, 5 minutes from Montalcino. Through the large windows of their elegant tasting room, you enter the terrace with its incomparable view of their vineyards. In this enchanting context it is possible to taste their wines: Rosso di Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino and their IGT San Pio.

Did you know? The Typical Geographical Indication ( IGT ) indicates wines produced according to specified requirements. In Italy, the term IGT can be replaced by the term Landwein for wines from the lands of Bolzano. Even IGT wines produced in the Aosta Valley have their own name: Vin de pays.

Always close to the San Antimo abbey, the Le Ripi biodynamic cellar offers a context of absolutely enchanting value and quality wines recognized by many Montalcino wine lovers.

We could name many other wineries but this article would never end. We therefore invite you to come and stay in Val d’Orcia and to taste the wines, oils and local cuisine by yourself. A delightful experience, immerse in the famous and warn Italian atmosfere, to do with your love one and your familly. Fotografers, make sure to have sufficient battery and plenty of memory cards at all time. A photo await you at every corner of this majestic land.

Brunello di Montalcino wine tasting

We have thought of you, expert amateurs and wine lovers, the complex and perfectly balanced flavors of our wine selection will surprise you. The Relais Osteria dell’Orcia opens the doors of a world where wine becomes art. Narrated by our passionate Sommelier, a thousand and one pleasant surprises await you. To discover here!

We wish you pleasant wine tours in Montalcino. If you like to know more about this fairy tale medieval city we wrote a few lines so for you to know what to do in Montalcino. Read our Brunello di Montalcino guide !

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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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Sober Travelers Find Something to Savor in Wine Country

Mocktail trails, olive oil tours and elevated dining experiences are among the many ways the renowned wine-producing areas of Sonoma, Mendoza and Tuscany are appealing to sober or sober-curious travelers.

By Christine Chitnis

Amy Snook knows more about wine than your average traveler. Originally from California, she now lives in the Douro Valley of Portugal, her partner works in the wine industry, and she has visited 47 countries, many of which have celebrated viticulture. But seven years ago, on a trip to Mendoza, a winemaking region in the foothills of Argentina’s Andes Mountains, she opted to abstain from drinking alcohol, a decision she would repeat in future travels.

“It’s such a long flight to Argentina, and I was only there for 10 days,” said Ms. Snook, 34, a publishing professional. “I’m aware of how alcohol affects me, and I chose to prioritize feeling amazing every day of the trip over dealing with a hangover.”

During her visit, Ms. Snook bicycled between vineyards, reveled in breathtaking scenery, relaxed with spa treatments and engaged with sommeliers and winemakers, coming away with a new appreciation for sustainable and regenerative agriculture.

“The obvious question when you tell someone that you aren’t drinking is, ‘Out of all the places you could go, why travel to wine country?’” she said. “But to me, it makes perfect sense because these regions offer all the perks of luxury travel — wellness amenities, beautiful landscapes and fine dining.”

With 41 percent of Americans seeking to reduce their alcohol intake, according to a consumer-sentiment study released in January by NCSolutions, Ms. Snook’s experience is part of a larger trend: the rise of sober-curious or mindful drinking. While sober travel is hardly a new concept, its popularity is surging to new heights — particularly among younger generations — and forcing a reckoning in the wine industry. The 2024 State of the U.S. Wine Industry report , an annual forecast of market conditions and trends written by the wine-business analyst Rob McMillan, found that 52 percent of consumers ages 21 to 34 believe that consuming alcohol, even in moderation, is bad for your health.

This trend is reshaping travel to world-class wine destinations like Sonoma County, in California, as well as Mendoza and Tuscany. Blessed with temperate climates, extended growing seasons, fertile soils, rich histories and breathtaking vistas, these renowned wine locales are expanding their offerings to attract drinkers and nondrinkers.

Here are some of the restaurants, tour groups and wineries in those regions that are reinventing the travel experience to be more inclusive of the sober-curious.

Dining in Sonoma

If wine is a true expression of the land, embodying the unique characteristics of its soil, weather and the meticulous craftsmanship of those who cultivate it, can you still forge that connection without drinking?

At Cyrus , a Michelin-starred fine dining destination in Geyserville , Calif., the answer is a resounding yes. Sonoma County, double the size of neighboring Napa, made conscious decisions to protect and diversify its land use, ensuring grapes as well as agricultural crops were grown. Douglas Keane, Cyrus’s owner and chef, highlights the local harvest by working with small farms and purveyors to source his ingredients. Crosnes — a Chinese artichoke — from Alexander Valley Vineyards gardens, yuzu and finger limes from the citrus grower David Levine, and cheesefrom Andante Dairy have all ended up on Cyrus’s menu.

Also on the menu: Kally , an alcohol-free wine alternative produced with housemade organic verjuice and sourced from Northern California. Served at more than 15 other Michelin-starred restaurants, Kally’s bottles include Early Chardonnay, which is crisp, bright and changes flavor and aroma as it moves across the palate, similar to a fine wine. A tart, vibrant Golden Sparkler has notes of jasmine and citrus, and a floral, fruity Rosé Sparkler offers hints of strawberry and hibiscus.

“Chefs and sommeliers are interested in having precise nonalcoholic pairings. Their food was created to be prepared with sophisticated drinks, not just sparkling water,” said Scott Mitic, who created the beverage along with his wife, Katie.

Customers, too, appreciate having a choice, he said, noting that many of Kally’s most loyal drinkers are wine enthusiasts. “This is not an abstinence movement; it is a moderation movement.”

Cyrus Schultz, the wine director and sommelier at Cyrus, aims to create drinks that make sober guests feel just as special, if not more, than those indulging in traditional wine pairings. His nonalcoholic creations include the Rosé Champagne, an effervescent blend of coconut, white sesame, cherry blossom and lime, and the Apple Martini, a sweet, herbaceous concoction of pink lady apple, fennel and mint olive oil.

“The intention is never to mimic alcohol products, but to construct the pairings similarly to how a chef looks at a menu — different textures, temperatures and flavor profiles,” Mr. Schultz said.

These efforts are not limited to one restaurant. Chris Vomvolakis, senior manager of consumer public relations at Sonoma County Tourism , said bars, restaurants and wineries across the region are recognizing that it’s not all about wine.

The town of Healdsburg recently created the Mocktail Trail , with eight participating restaurants, and Meadowcroft Wines in the town of Sonoma curated a flight of original zero-proof cocktails. David Messerli, Meadowcroft’s marketing and strategy director, said the winery encourages guests “to discern aromas, flavors and nuances, much like they would with wine.”

“For those opting out of alcohol, we felt there was more we could do,” he said. “People have various reasons for abstaining from alcohol, and no one should feel excluded because of it.”

Women-led luxury in Mendoza

Mendoza, renowned for its malbec wines and stunning Andean landscapes, is no stranger to luxury accouterments, but sober guests? That is a newer phenomenon. “We have definitely noticed an increase in guests seeking nonalcoholic travel options in recent years,” said Victoria Stiles, sales manager at Cavas Wine Lodge , a luxury 18-room hotel set amid a 55-acre vineyard.

At Cavas, wine may be the main attraction, but guests can book spa treatments using vine and grape-seed extracts, join yoga sessions on the private terrace overlooking the Andes and vineyards, and take full-day hiking excursions to Aconcagua Provincial Park, a rugged, mountainous destination that is home to Mount Aconcagua, South America’s highest peak.

Wild Terrains , a certified B-Corp travel company specializing in experiences for women, has planned three days of a 10-day Argentina tour to be sober-inclusive in Mendoza. Built around women-owned businesses, stops include boutique lodging at Entre Cielos , horseback riding in the Andean foothills, home-cooked asado at Estancia Los Chulengos and a private dining experience at Michelin-starred Zonda Cocina de Paisaje . The meal offers special mocktail pairings with distinct flavors like lemon verbena, beets and burro, an herb used to make digestive teas and infusions.

“In Mendoza, our trip centers on talented female winemakers who are pushing boundaries in a historically male-dominated industry,” said Lauren Bates, founder of Wild Terrains. “While these experiences include wine tastings, we want sober travelers to feel intentionally included even if they are skipping the wine tasting.”

Sofia Pescarmona, owner of the Bodega Lagarde vineyard and Zonda Cocina de Paisaje, said that while the restaurant experience aims to showcase their wine, nondrinkers will also appreciate it.

“We truly believe we can offer an elevated experience for those who don’t drink wine by highlighting other seasonal produce grown on our property,” she said.

Tasting olive oil in Tuscany

Wine tastings epitomize indulgence, especially immersed in the heart of Tuscany, when visitors can savor glass after glass of Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Salvatore Ferragamo Jr., chief executive of the Il Borro wine estate and grandson of the fashion house’s founder, encourages guests to find other ways to indulge.

“The olive harvests in the autumn produce the region’s spicy, piquant ‘green gold,’” said Mr. Ferragamo.

Il Borro, in Tuscany’s Valdarno, is a meticulously restored medieval village that includes 58 suites, three vacation villas, two restaurants, stables, working vineyards and olive groves. Olive oil production began in 1996, following the recovery of varieties like Frantoio, Moraiolo and Leccino that had long been neglected. Now, after touring some 80 acres of organic groves, guests can engage in a tasting experience of two distinct oils, one full-bodied with floral, fruity and grassy aromas, the other robust, peppery and dark.

Another option, Tuscan Organic Tours , offers immersive daylong experiences that delve into wine and oil but also other rich agricultural offerings. Delicious tours with private transportation highlight tastes and flavors that include Pecorino di Pienza, one of the most renowned Italian cheeses, saffron and fresh pastas. The tours include visits to organic farms, lunches, tastings, and opportunities to participate in cheese-making and saffron harvesting.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

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Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

7 of the best small towns and villages to visit in Tuscany

A lthough Italy has no shortage of enchanting holiday destinations – the Amalfi Coast , Cinque Terre, Puglia and Sicily , to name just a few – there’s something particularly magical about Tuscany.

This is a region that often seems to be bathed in a soft golden light, with gently sloping hills and beautiful Italian villas nestled among olive groves, cypress trees and vineyards .

Although you could easily fill your days in the cities of Florence and Pisa, or exploring the narrow streets and central piazza of Siena, perhaps one of the greatest experiences in Tuscany is exploring the many medieval hilltop towns and villages that are scattered through the countryside.

From the famous towers of San Gimignano and charming Pienza to Greve in the wine-making region of Chianti, there are plenty of towns and villages to discover, all with their own unique charms and within easy driving distance of one another. Here are seven of our favourites.

San Gimignano

San Gimignano is one of the best known small towns in Tuscany – and for good reason. With its hilltop location, charmimg local restaurants and picture-perfect setting, it’s a favourite among tourists. Visitors can stroll through the medieval streets, stop in at one of the many small shops, gaze at the town’s impressive Duomo cathedral and visit the civic museum at the Palazzo del Popolo.

There’s a fun story behind San Gimignano’s famous towers. Between the 11th and the 13th centuries, the noble families who controlled the town believed their towers were a sign of wealth and power to their political and economic rivals, and so kept building more and more – it is believed that a total of 72 could be found in San Gimignano at its peak. Only 14 have survived, but they’re still rather impressive and give the town a palpable sense of history .

Read more on Italy travel :

• The adventure holiday in Italy tracking wolves and bears – just 90 minutes outside of Rome
• Lerici: Italy’s under-the-radar alternative to the Cinque Terre
• Palermo city guide: Best things to do and where to stay in the energetic yet charming capital of Sicily

Montalcino is an excellent choice for wine lovers – it’s well known for its brunello di montalcino and rosso di montalcino wines. The location in the hills of the Val d’Orcia gives it an even more rustic setting than other towns on this list. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by countryside dotted with cypress trees and flowers, as well as rolling olive groves and vineyards. Tourists can climb the fortress walls, amble through the winding streets and spend some time on the town’s Piazza del Popolo – but no visitor should miss the wine tastings which can be enjoyed in and around the town.

Pienza also lies in the Val d’Orcia, where gently rolling hills are populated by Renaissance towns, vineyards and medieval castles. The town itself is surrounded by medieval walls, inside of which is a maze of pretty cobbled streets lined with typical Tuscan houses. From the town you can enjoy amazing views over the hills and olive groves, and in the distance sits Mount Amiata.

All roads in this town lead to the Pio II plaza, with particularly picturesque streets including the Via dell’Amore and Via del Bacio. The town’s cathedral sits in this square, as does the Palazzo Piccolomini and Palazzo Borgia, which houses the town’s museum.

Greve in Chianti and Montefioralle

A visit to Tuscany is arguably not complete without a visit to Chianti, the region’s famous wine-producing area. Greve in Chianti is one of the more scenic towns in this part of Tuscany – it’s centred around the triangular Piazza Matteotti, the porticos of which hide vendors of various fresh produce.

In the foothills just below Greve in Chianti lies Montefioralle, one of the oldest villages in Tuscany. It’s still enclosed by its original defensive walls, and its (nearly) car-free centre is a great place for a relaxed stroll. The surrounding vineyards will likely be the focus of your visit, but be sure to climb up the hills to the highest point in the village where you can see the Santo Stefano church and take in a sweeping view of the vineyards, olive groves and cypress trees.

Volterra was once a mighty Etruscan city, but nowadays it is best known for Italian handicrafts and remnants of its medieval past. It is dominated by its Duomo along with the Palazzo dei Priori and 13th-century palazzo, though the 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheatre is another highlight. Remnants of its Etruscan past remain in the 5th-century Porta all’Arco walls and the Guarnacci Etruscan Museum, while the smaller Pinacoteca museum focuses on art from between the 14th and 17th century.

Pitigliano is located in the Maremma region near the Tuscan coast. It’s another hilltop town, and features rows of sandstone buildings built on top of volcanic red “tuff” stone. As well as enjoying wine tastings, tourists can amble through the mazy streets, stop for a drink or bite to eat around the lovely Piazza del Popolo, explore the palace-fortress of Palazzo Orsini (and its museum) and visit the Sette Cannelle fountain.

This town is also known as “Little Jerusalem” as a large Jewish population resided there until around the time of the Second World War, and there are several remnants of its religious history still present, from an old Jewish Quarter – now with a Jewish museum – to a gilded synagogue.

Pietrasanta

Pietrasanta still retains some of the artistic creativity that was associated with it in bygone times when artists such as Michelangelo frequented the town. Today it has one of the highest concentrations of art galleries in any Italian town, from the Favret Mosaici Artistici to the Flora Bigae gallery of contemporary art.

Pietrasanta is located very close to the coast, near upmarket resorts like Forte dei Marmi, and so is a town influenced by both local history and modern tourism. Away from the beaches, the highlights include the Duomo and the Rocca di Sala fortress, while an archaeological museum, marble quarry and yearly performing arts festival (named La Versiliana) are a little more off the beaten track.

Read more on Italy with the best hotels in Rome

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First timer’s guide to California's Santa Barbara

Apr 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Ditch the car and get around Santa Barbara's shops, restaurants and wine-tasting rooms by foot © Mitch Diamond / Getty Images

Welcome to Santa Barbara , where the sun, sea, and mountains create a coastal paradise like no other. The Chumash people initially inhabited the town for thousands of years before Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century. Today, Santa Barbara still reflects its Spanish colonial heritage with Mediterranean-style buildings and red-tile roofs, which perfectly complement the natural backdrop of the San Ynez Mountains. 

What may appear as a small beach town truly has so much to offer. From its pristine beaches, one-of-a-kind hiking trails, vibrant culture, mouthwatering eateries, live music scene, renowned vineyards, and plenty more… there won’t be a minute to spare.

Just 90 minutes from Los Angeles , whether visiting for just the day or a long weekend, it’s a no-brainer. So whether you’re looking to catch the perfect wave or want to indulge in a world of laid-back tranquility, the magic of Santa Barbara offers what can only be referred to as a diverse array of experiences that cater to every taste and interest. 

When is the best time to go to Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara bathes in near-perfect weather, averaging more than 300 days of sunshine each year, so there’s really no bad time to visit. For travelers looking for that quintessential Californian experience, July and August are when the sun is at its hottest and the water is warmest. While the warmer season does bring larger crowds and higher prices, consider planning your trip around Santa Barbra’s Old Spanish Days Fiesta. The city truly comes alive during the five-day festival that honors Santa Barbara’s history, spirit, culture, heritage and traditions. The celebrations begin on the Wednesday before the first Friday in August, and 2024 will mark its 100th anniversary. 

Budget-conscious travelers may find winter (December to February) more appealing, with fewer tourists and a better chance of snagging a great deal on accommodation. But the sweet spot lies in spring and fall when the crowds thin out while temperatures are still on the higher side. Just be sure to pack layers as the temperatures can drop up to 15 degrees at night.

How much time should I spend in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara can be enjoyed as an easy day or weekend trip from Los Angeles (travel time is only 90 minutes). However, with so much to do and see, true explorers will relish the opportunity to linger for three to four days (and many lodging properties offer guests their third night free). 

If you only have two days, you can soak up the city’s Spanish heritage and enjoy the palm-lined waterfront and coastal cuisine. However, with a few more days up your sleeve, you can indulge beyond the city’s immediate offerings. For starters, Santa Barbara’s wine tastings are a must . There’s a series of 25+ rooms downtown, but if you can venture out to Santa Barbara’s wine country, it’s home to 283 wineries. With more days, outdoor adventures like hiking and cycling are also possible and cater to all levels and expertise. 

Is it easy to get in and around Santa Barbara?

The options are plenty when it comes to getting in and around Santa Barbara. A direct flight to Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA) is an option with flights from all around the US, including Portland, Salt Lake City, and even Atlanta. From there, a ride-share service or hotel shuttle can transport you the 10 miles to downtown. 

Getting to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles is an easy 90-minute drive on US 101-N. Alternatively, tourists can opt for the Amtrak train. The gorgeous coastal ride starts from Union Station in Los Angeles and takes just over two-and-a-half hours to arrive directly in downtown Santa Barbara. 

Once in Santa Barbara, the compact city center means you can ditch your car for the most part. The downtown coastal area is very pedestrian and cyclist-friendly, making it easy to explore the charming streets of boutiques, cafes, and galleries without the added stress of finding (limited) parking. However, if you plan to visit beyond downtown, a car or rideshare option will be necessary. 

Top things to do in Santa Barbara

There’s so much to pack in during your time in Santa Barbara, but there are a few must-dos that showcase the city. Renting a bike is the best way to see as many spots as possible. Make sure you cruise along the scenic Cabrillo Bike Path, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the Santa Ynez Mountains. 

Foodies and wine enthusiasts will feel right at home with the near-limitless gastronomic offerings. For a casual-yet-upscale coffee, Cajé Coffee Roasters are known for their very photogenic drinks (order the Sugar Wood or Belarosa). For lunch, it’s almost criminal for a first-timer to skip La Super-Rica Taqueria . After one bite, you’ll quickly learn why Julia Child and Katy Perry call this their favorite taco joint. Bibi Ji is another local go-to for their friendly atmosphere and delicious twist on modern Indian cuisine. 

Even if you’re not planning on venturing past downtown, it doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on a famous Santa Barbara wine tasting . Just steps from the main State Street, Grassini Family Vineyards has a tasting room. For just $25, you can try their Estate Flight, which features four of their estate-grown wines, or you can purchase a glass or bottle to enjoy. 

Taking the time to stop and enjoy the serenity is a huge part of what attracts so many people to Santa Barbra. For a budget-friendly option, pack a casual picnic and bask in the sunshine, beauty, and tranquility of the Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens . Tucked away in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains, the enchanting oasis showcases California’s diverse flora. 

Leave time for a day trip from Santa Barbara

There are several day trip options from Santa Barbara, including visiting nearby wine regions such as the Santa Ynez Valley . Beyond wine tastings, the Santa Ynez Valley is also known for its horseback riding. A popular place to visit is the Alisal Ranch , located on 10,500 sweeping acres, with 100 horses trained for riders who are beginners having their first lesson, to an expert wanting an exhilirating trail ride.

Another great spot is Monetcito – another coastal town only a 10 minute drive with boutique shopping and sprawling estates. If you’re lucky, you may even bump into Oprah Winfrey, Prince Harry, Ellen DeGeneres or plenty of other celebrities who call this area home.

Venturing out a little further, take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to destinations like Malibu or Big Sur , or visit other popular day trip destinations like Solvang , Ojai or Channel Islands National Park . 

My favorite thing to do in Santa Barbara

Picking just one favorite activity is nearly impossible with all that Santa Barbara has to offer. But if I did have to recommend just one activity, I’d say you cannot miss an evening show at the Santa Barbara Bowl . 

The spectacular amphitheater was built in 1936 and seats over 4,500 people. Of course, the performances are showstopping, but the true magic happens before the show. Located approximately 300 feet above sea level, as the sun starts its descent behind the hills, the sky transforms into a breathtaking canvas of fiery hues. It’s a scene that captures  Santa Barbara’s rich natural beauty, and the magical sunsets become forever intertwined with the unforgettable experience of the live show. 

How much money do I need to visit Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is considered to be a relatively expensive place to visit due to its popular coastal location and luxurious upscale amenities. However, there are options to suit various budgets. 

• Hostel room: $40–$65 per night (season dependent) 
• Basic room for two: $150–$350 per night (season dependent) 
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $140–$350+ per night (season dependent) 
• Public transport ticket: $1.75 for a single bus ride, or $4.50–$7 for a day pass
• Coffee: $3–$6
• Sandwich: $8–$15
• Dinner for two: $30–$100+
• Beer/pint at the bar: $5–$10
• Wine tasting: $15–$30
• City tour: $30–$100pp 

What’s the nightlife like in Santa Barbara? 

The nightlife scene in Santa Barbara is vibrant with trendy bars, restaurants, and lounges lining the main streets of downtown. Many feature live music performances to add to the lively atmosphere. 

Is it easy to find parking in downtown Santa Barbara? 

The short answer is: no. Parking in downtown Santa Barbara can be challenging, especially during high seasons. There are metered spots, but availability varies. Consider walking on foot or biking around to avoid parking hassles.

What should I pack for my trip to Santa Barbara?

Even during warmer months, the temperature in Santa Barbara drops significantly at night, so layers are always recommended. There are many options when it comes to activities, including beach outings, wine tastings, and outdoor expiration so pack a variety of clothing options. Everyday essentials for Santa Barbara include sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a water bottle to stay hydrated. 

Are there any safety tips I should keep in mind?

Overall, Santa Barbara is considered a safe tourist destination, but it’s always wise to take precautions and be aware of new surroundings. Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of ocean conditions when swimming and enjoying other water activities. Always listen to lifeguards and local advice regardless of how confident you are in the water. 

Here is more expert advice to help you plan your trip:

Find  the best time to visit  Santa Barbara. Check out these budget-friendly tips  for California before you book. Save this guide to the best free things to do in Santa Barbara . And bookmark these California  road trip itineraries , including the Pacific Coast Highway to Santa Barbara.

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Rosso di Montalcino Best wine tours & tastings

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How to make your own bespoke wine with the best vintners in the world.

With an initiation fee starting at $20k, private wine and travel club The Vines takes members around the globe to sip rare vintages, learn the art of blending and even create a personal barrel complete with 25 cases and bespoke labels.

By Elycia Rubin

Elycia Rubin

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Pulling a prized bottle of, say, a 2018 Dalla Valle Cabernet Sauvignon out of the cellar to relish with friends can be thrilling. But think about the bragging rights of pouring your own blend, which you personally crafted at a famed winery in the heart of Tuscany or in the hills of Argentina.

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Over three or four days you’ll stroll vineyards, gain inside knowledge about the craft, inhale the enchanting aromas inside renowned barrel rooms and sip treasured wines. Members also have the option of creating their own personal barrel (25 cases, priced from $6,000-$40,000), which will be bottled, adorned with a bespoke label and shipped to your home after maturation. Intimate and masterfully executed, these “Blending Escapes” are the pinnacle of wine-tasting bliss for any oenophile.

“Through The Vines, we share winemaking experiences with others who are passionate about wine and the cultural and travel experiences that accompany it,” founder and CEO Michael Evans tells THR . “Drinking wines from a region, with the people who make them, and enjoying the unique foods of each locale is an unparalleled experience.”

Studded with culturally rich activities designed to deeply connect members with each region thanks to the meaningful relationships Evans and his team have cultivated, excursions are carefully curated. In addition to the deep dive with winemakers, expect dinners at off-the-beaten path cafés and trattorias, bountiful lunches set on sprawling vineyards, cooking classes with revered chefs, and gatherings with resident authors and artists.

Current destinations where members can globetrot and vine hop include: Priorat, Spain; Mosel, Germany; the Champagne and Burgundy regions of France; Mendoza, Argentina; Oregon’s Willamette Valley; Duoro Valley, Portugal; Napa Valley; Sicily; and Piemonte, Italy.

South Africa, Bordeaux and Georgia in Eastern Europe are currently being plotted for 2025. Plenty of scintillating activities are forthcoming as well, to include truffle hunting in Tuscany, clamming on the Oregon coast, and making one’s own perfume in Spain.

Those who are yearning to delve further into the terroir and grow their own grapes, literally, have the option to purchase an acre of mature vineyards in Argentina at The Vines of Mendoza for $120,000, plus additional farming fees. “Winemaking is a la carte and starts at $4 per bottle,” says Evans, who also owns The Vines Resort & Spa , the private vineyard’s sleek retreat delivering majestic views of the Andes Mountains and surrounding vines.

A version of this story first appeared in the April 10 issue of The Hollywood Reporter magazine. Click here to subscribe .

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