A Guide to Wine Tasting in Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is certainly one of Italy’s most desirable destinations. Its picturesque rolling hills dotted with traditional farmhouses and its historic towns full of beauty, art and history inspire globetrotters around the world. But there’s one more thing this Italian region is well-known for – Tuscany is home to the Sangiovese grape variety and some of Italy’s best wines. If names like Super Tuscan, Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino intrigue you, then you’ll probably want to include the following wineries on your next trip to Tuscany. Just remember to book your wine tasting appointment well in advance!

Ornellaia

The producer of some of the legendary Super Tuscan* wines, Ornellaia estate is located near the picturesque Bolgheri village and is one of the world’s most iconic wineries. Begin your tour by discovering its historic vineyards and cellars followed by a wine tasting of Ornellaia’s world-famous elegant reds.

Other Bolgheri wineries worth visiting: Prima Pietra, Guado al Tasso, Argentiera, Le Macchiole.

*This term is used to describe Tuscan red wines that may add non-local grape varieties (such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, etc.) into their blends . It all began with Sassicaia. Unfortunately, Tenuta San Guido that produces this legendary red wine is not open to the public however, you can book a table at the estate’s gourmet restaurant.

Petra

Not far from Bolgheri, near the ancient village of Suvereto in the Maremma, lies Petra estate – an architecturally impressive property and one-of-a-kind. Petra was designed by Mario Botta, a Swiss architect who also designed the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. This winery offers several experiences, all of which begin with a tour in the vineyards, to the cellar, followed by a tasting of the estate’s wines and extra virgin olive oil.

Other Maremma wineries worth visiting: Le Mortelle, Rocca di Montemassi, Monteverro.

Antinori nel Chianti Classico

Antinori is one of Italy’s most historic families who has been in the wine business for more than six centuries. Their numerous wine estates are located in a variety of countries around the world. The architecture of Antinori winery in Chianti Classico is truly unique and innovative. It was designed by the leading Italian architect Marco Casamonti and first opened in 2012. Different winery and tasting tours are available for visitors to choose from. In addition, there is the Antinori museum that displays the family’s art collection as well as Rinuccio 1180, a rooftop restaurant that offers breathtaking hillside views and traditional Tuscan dishes.

Other Chianti Classico wineries worth visiting: Ricasoli, Castello di Ama, Tenuta Perano.

To learn more about the history of Chianti Classico and discover two more great winemakers in the region, click here.

CastelGiocondo

Like Antinori, Frescobaldi is a legendary Italian family who has been making wine for over 700 years. The owners of Ornellaia and Tenuta Perano also own CastelGiocondo, a historic estate in the medieval village of Montalcino. The property was one of the first four to begin producing Brunello di Montalcino in 1800. While visiting CastelGiocondo you will discover the history of one of Italy’s greatest red wines as well as a collection of contemporary art that is displayed throughout the estate.

Other Montalcino wineries worth visiting: Castiglion del Bosco, Col d’Orcia, Castello Banfi.

Salcheto

Our list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning another Tuscan wine star – Vino Nobile di Montepulciano*. Salcheto is an eco-sustainable, self-sufficient winery located near the picturesque town of Montepulciano. In addition to learning about the history and culture of Vino Nobile winemaking and tasting of Salcheto’s elegant and aromatic wines, visitors have a chance to admire the stunning views from the estate’s enoteca.

Other Montepulciano wineries worth visiting: Avignonesi, Palazzo Vecchio, Poliziano.

*Not to be confused with Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, a red wine made from Montepulciano grapes in the region of Abruzzo in the southern Italy, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a red wine named after the town of Montepulciano in Tuscany. This wine is made primarily from Sangiovese, blended with some other grape varieties and, like Chianti Classico and Brunello, is among Tuscany’s finest.