Tuscany is everything you’d think of in traditional Italy. Historic architecture, buildings that are slightly cracked and crumbling, stone-paved streets – it’s beautiful.
It’s a slice of Italy that has everything, surrounded by a luscious, vivid green landscape and the Ligurian and Tyrrhenian Seas. One thing it’s famous for is wine. The bountiful landscape and vast vineyards create some of the most flavorful, full-bodied, crisp wines (and every other describing word you could imagine) you’ll ever have tasted.
Tuscany has multiple wine regions famous for producing specific wines from that area. Here are some of our favorites.
Explore Tuscany’s Top Wine Regions: Chianti, Montalcino, and Montepulciano
1. Chianti: The Quintessential Tuscan Experience
When people talk about Tuscany, they picture the rolling hills of Chianti, an iconic wine region that epitomizes the spirit of Tuscany. Situated between Siena and Florence, it’s the perfect location. It is known for its world-famous Chianti Classico, full of classic Italian tradition and culture, and some of the best wines you can find in Italy.
What to Expect in Chianti
Chianti has many historic vineyards in the medieval villages and wineries run by families for generations. The area is divided into several areas, with the most popular being Chianti Classico. Some picturesque towns include Greve in Chianti, Radda, and Castellina.
Wine Tasting Tip: While in Chianti, explore a few of these smaller family-owned wineries since you get an intimate feel. One of our favorites is the Azienda Agricola Montefioralle. The wine is always better!
Top Chianti Wineries to Visit:
- Castello di Verrazzano: The stunning view at this historical winery gives it an edge over others. The tours are excellent and get you fully involved with winemaking.
- Antinori nel Chianti Classico: Located in the stunning Tuscan hills, this stunning vineyard and its modern architecture provide wine and oil-tasting experiences.
- Badia a Coltibuono: An incredible tourist attraction and former monastery, this is the perfect place for organic wines and history lovers.
2. Montalcino: Home of the Prestigious Brunello
Montalcino, just south of Siena, is a small hilltop town that has become famous globally for its Brunello di Montalcino. The glorious Brunello, made from the Sangiovese Grosso grape, is one of Italy’s top reds and one of the most age-worthy. If you want intense flavors and strong links with Tuscan winemaking, Montalcino is the place to go.
What to Expect in Montalcino
Beyond wine, this medieval hill town offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. You’ll find various wineries—from large, commercially established ones to smaller boutique producers. All contribute to the incredible Brunello di Montalcino reputation.
Wine Tasting Tip: Brunello di Montalcino ages exceptionally well. When you visit, it is recommended that you sample older vintages. Some vineyards offer vertical tastings where visitors try different years of Brunello and learn how it changes over time.
Top Montalcino Wineries to Visit:
- Biondi Santi: The original home of Brunello, there’s a deep history behind this delightful wine.
- Casanova di Neri: Known for its award-winning Brunello and beautiful estate.
- Poggio Antico: A picturesque winery offering a range of Brunellos and fantastic cellar tours. One of the best in the area.
3. Montepulciano: The Land of Vino Nobile
Montepulciano, located in southern Tuscany, is another must-visit for wine lovers. This region is renowned for Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, an ancient wine as old as the 14th century. With its vibrant medieval architecture and impressive vineyards, Montepulciano is a fabulous area to visit.
What to Expect in Montepulciano
The town is stunning with narrow cobblestone streets that turn into Renaissance palaces and panoramic vistas that never end. Surrounding vineyards produce Vino Nobile, mainly from the Sangiovese grape, which is known for being well-balanced, elegant, and age-worthy.
Wine Tasting Tip: Instead of sticking to famous names at Montepulciano, consider visiting some lesser-known wineries. One of our recommendations is the Podere Casa al Vento if you want the authentic Italian vineyard experience.
Top Montepulciano Wineries to Visit:
- Avignonesi: A former proponent of organic and biodynamic viticulture, Avignonesi is known for producing several impeccable tastings.
- Poliziano: Famous for its rich, full-bodied Vino Nobile. Enjoy fantastic views of vineyards at their tasting hall.
- Cantina Contucci: Cantina Contucci was one of the very earliest producers in Montepulciano, located right in the heart of town.
Tips for Wine Tasting Tours in Tuscany
Tuscany’s various wine regions are a haven. You won’t taste better wine elsewhere in the world. Here are some of our tips for making the most of the experience:
- Book in Advance: During busy seasons, Tuscany’s most popular estates will require you to book first.
- Hire a Local Guide: The region’s local guides can teach you about the history, culture, or winemaking techniques. They are worth paying for, especially if you don’t know anything about wine, you just like to drink it! Most vineyards only let people in if they pay for a tour.
- Pace Yourself: Always pace yourself. Some of the vineyards offer more than a little sample. Or, at least, always have a way home!
- Explore Beyond the Wine: See what else Tuscany has to offer. The stunning local towns and historic cities are incredible to explore.
- Stay in a Villa: For an authentic Tuscan experience, consider booking a villa with Kinglike Concierge. We have a luxury collection of Tuscany villas in all the top wine regions. From Tuscany villas close to a winery to Tuscany farmhouses, we’ve got the perfect villas for your vacation.
Discover Tuscany’s Wine Regions with Kinglike Concierge
Do you have a Tuscan wine region you can’t wait to explore? If you want our advice, as long as you leave with trying a Chianti Classico, arguably the most famous wine in all of Tuscany, then it doesn’t matter where you stay. Everything about the different regions is magical – the incredible wine is simply a bonus.
And when you stay in a Kinglike Concierge villa, you’re guaranteed the most luxurious stay in some of our top pick villas.
If you need more help with your planning, discover Tuscany’s Hidden Gems in one of our most recent posts. Or, if you love cycling more than you do wine, our Cycling Through Tuscany: Routes for Every Level blog post gives you all the best routes to follow. For family travelers, our Tuscany for Families: Kid-Friendly Activities and Attractions is the perfect read for finding things to do for kids.