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In addition to the lovely cities that increased their popularity since the Renaissance, like Florence and Siena, hidden gems and off the beaten tracks definitely do not lack reasons to be discovered. In fact, it is just at the most remote spots of this beautiful land that you will find the best vineyards and wine cellars.
Most of the wineries do not have big commercial signs to announce them: instead, they are located quite far from the main towns so the best way to reach them is by car. Sometimes, the best ones are lesser-known properties where you can learn all about their hundred years old traditions and meticulous viticulture process. Therefore, if you are a wine lover you cannot miss a wine itinerary in the countryside, driving at your own pace along the green sinuous hills and through beautiful medieval towns provided with enchanted castles.
Tuscany is home of some of the most famous Italian wines, such as Chianti, Brunello or Montepulciano. Although this region may seem pretty accessible, it is quite big instead and each area is dedicated to specific grapes. Ideally, you can split Tuscany in 3 smaller areas: Chianti Classico to the North, Val d’Orcia to the East and Maremma to the South.
Depending on your wine preferences, you may think of being based in Florence rather than in Siena and taking a day trip to their peaceful surroundings.
To help you arrange your itinerary, here are our top wine tours in Tuscany.
Road to the North: Chianti Classico
From Florence, take the route to Siena and the breathtaking Chianti hills will amaze you. Chianti is probably one of the most exciting locations for wine tours in Italy as this region combines its well preserved medieval castles with authentic tuscan culinary traditions. Our recommendation is to pick one or two wineries per day, rather than stopping at too many in a short time. In fact, most wineries are fully equipped with tours, tastings and visits to their estates so that you will need time there. Do not forget to pay a visit to the charming Chianti towns as they surely deserve a stop. Greve in Chianti, Panzano or Radda in Chianti are the thrilling small towns along the main road to the South. Here you can really feel that unique atmosphere of past and traditions, handed down from father to son.
Our favourites: Antinori nel Chianti Classico is an extensive wine property whose highlights are definitely its modern architecture surrounded by millenary green trees. This is a place where the past and future coexist.
If you love more traditional wine tours in Tuscany, we suggest you instead Sant’Appiano, a 14th century estate with a farm, where the respect for nature and the love for nature mix one another perfectly, creating a special atmosphere for a wine tasting experience.
Road to the East: Val d’Orcia
Val d'Orcia is a large fascinating valley located in Siena district, with panoramic views of cypress-lined winding roads and evocative medieval villages such as Pienza and Montalcino. Siena surroundings inspired many poets and artists who recounted the beauty of this picturesque land. From 2004, Val d’Orcia is part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites too.
This area is renowned for its delicious specialties which you can’t miss: Pici, which are a typical hand-made pasta similar to Spaghetti, and Cinta Senese, a tasty second course made with pork. Whatsmore, Val d’Orcia is home to some of the finest red italian wines such as Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
DOCG Brunello is named after the town whose countryside is famous for wine-making. To make your experience even more special, we suggest you stroll along the typical small alleys of Montalcino before stopping at Castello Banfi, an old fairy-tale castle where you can combine wine tasting with appetizers made with cheese and cold cuts.
Which tuscan wine are you looking forward to tasting most? Let us know your favourites and we will be glad to arrange a customized wine tour for you!
