What are the best wineries to visit in Tuscany?
Wine enthusiasts frequently ask about the best wineries for tours and tastings, particularly in the Chianti region, Montalcino, and Montepulciano.
Tuscany is renowned for its world-class wines, and visiting wineries in the region is a must-do experience. Here are some of the best wineries to visit, each offering a unique glimpse into Tuscany’s rich wine-making tradition:
### 1. Antinori nel Chianti Classico (Bargino)
– Location: Bargino, near Florence
– Highlight: One of Tuscany’s most famous wine families, the Antinoris have been producing wine for over 600 years. The modern winery is an architectural marvel, with stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.
– Wines: Chianti Classico, Tignanello, Solaia
– Experience: Guided tours of the winery, wine tastings, and a visit to their on-site restaurant, Rinuccio 1180.
### 2. Castello di Ama (Gaiole in Chianti)
– Location: Gaiole in Chianti, Chianti Classico region
– Highlight: Known for its high-quality wines and contemporary art installations scattered throughout the estate.
– Wines: Chianti Classico, L’Apparita (Merlot)
– Experience: Art and wine tours, wine tastings, and dining at their Michelin-starred restaurant, Il Ristoro di Villa Pianigiani.
### 3. Tenuta San Guido (Bolgheri)
– Location: Bolgheri, Maremma region
– Highlight: The birthplace of the famous Super Tuscan wine, Sassicaia, which revolutionized Italian winemaking.
– Wines: Sassicaia, Guidalberto
– Experience: Exclusive tours by appointment, offering an in-depth look at the vineyards and winemaking process.
### 4. Biondi Santi (Montalcino)
– Location: Montalcino, Val d’Orcia region
– Highlight: This historic winery is credited with creating Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy’s most prestigious wines.
– Wines: Brunello di Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino
– Experience: Private tours of the vineyards, cellars, and tastings of their renowned Brunello wines.
### 5. Castello di Brolio (Gaiole in Chianti)
– Location: Gaiole in Chianti, Chianti Classico region
– Highlight: A historic estate owned by the Ricasoli family, with a castle that offers panoramic views of the Chianti hills.
– Wines: Chianti Classico, Gran Selezione
– Experience: Tours of the castle, gardens, and winery, wine tastings, and the opportunity to explore the family’s private collection of artifacts.
### 6. Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi (Various Locations)
– Locations: Various estates across Tuscany, including Nipozzano (Chianti Rufina) and Castelgiocondo (Montalcino)
– Highlight: Another historic Tuscan wine family, the Frescobaldis have a wide array of estates producing a variety of wines.
– Wines: Chianti Rufina, Brunello di Montalcino, Super Tuscans like Luce
– Experience: Guided tours and tastings at various estates, each offering a unique glimpse into different terroirs of Tuscany.
### 7. Fattoria dei Barbi (Montalcino)
– Location: Montalcino, Val d’Orcia region
– Highlight: A well-known producer of Brunello di Montalcino with a history dating back to the 14th century.
– Wines: Brunello di Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino
– Experience: Tours of the historic cellars, wine museum, and tastings in their enoteca.
### 8. Ornellaia (Bolgheri)
– Location: Bolgheri, Maremma region
– Highlight: A top producer of Super Tuscan wines, with a focus on quality and artistry.
– Wines: Ornellaia, Le Serre Nuove
– Experience: Private tours by appointment, including tastings of their premium wines.
### 9. Avignonesi (Montepulciano)
– Location: Montepulciano, Val d’Orcia region
– Highlight: Known for its commitment to biodynamic farming and exceptional Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
– Wines: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Desiderio (Merlot)
– Experience: Wine tastings, tours of the vineyards and cellars, and dining at their on-site restaurant.
### 10. Tenuta di Capezzana (Carmignano)
– Location: Carmignano, near Florence
– Highlight: One of the oldest wine estates in Tuscany, producing wines since the 9th century.
– Wines: Carmignano DOCG, Trefiano Riserva
– Experience: Tours of the historic villa, vineyards, and olive oil mill, along with wine tastings.
These wineries offer a blend of history, culture, and exceptional wines, providing a comprehensive experience of Tuscany’s wine heritage. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as many of these wineries require reservations for tours and tastings.