Val di Toro is a family owned and managed winery in the heart of Maremma in Southern Tuscany. We produce outstanding wines using organic principles...
Read MoreWine Regions
From Brunello di Montalcino to Chianti: Exploring the Hidden Treasures of Tuscan Wines and Vineyards
Navigate Tuscany like a true wine connoisseur
Tuscany is one of the most famous wine regions in the world, known for producing high-quality wines like Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti. However, beyond these popular wines lies a world of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. In this article, we explore the lesser-known vineyards and wines of Tuscany, from small family-run wineries to forgotten grape varieties. Join us on a journey to discover the diverse flavors and history behind Tuscan wines, and learn how to navigate this region like a true wine connoisseur.
Tuscany is renowned for its rich culture, history, and food, but one of the most notable aspects of the region is its wines. From the prestigious Brunello di Montalcino to the versatile and approachable Chianti, Tuscany’s wines offer something for every palate.
Brunello di Montalcino is made from the Sangiovese grape and only produced in the small town of Montalcino. This wine is known for its complexity and aging potential. A traditional Brunello di Montalcino must be aged for a minimum of five years, with at least two years spent in oak barrels. The result is a wine with intense aromas of dark fruit, leather, and earthy notes. It’s a wine that pairs perfectly with hearty meals like osso buco, steak, or game meats.
Wine tasting experiences
Montebelli Wines & Country Hotel
The tradition of wine making is deeply rooted in our family history as this is the 5th generation that has been involved in the production...
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SassodiSole
SassodiSole winery is a family owned business. It is situated in a unique area within north Valley, which has recently been nominated as a UNESCO...
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Borgo Casa al Vento
Borgo Casa al Vento is a hidden and secret place where organic wine is produced with passion. The middle age establishment hosts 26 beautifully decorated...
Read MoreChianti, on the other hand, is a wine that can be enjoyed much younger and is made from a blend of grape varieties including Sangiovese, Canaiolo, and other local varieties. There are different styles of Chianti available, but generally, the wine is light and fruity with a medium body. The acidity in Chianti makes it a great pairing with tomato-based dishes, pizza, and pasta with meat sauces.
There are many other Tuscan wines worth exploring. For example, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, made from the Sangiovese grape, has a deep ruby red color and intense aromas of violets and cherries. Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a white wine made from the Vernaccia grape, has notes of lemon, green apple, and almond and pairs well with seafood and light pasta dishes.
Wine tasting experiences
Fattoria Uccelliera
Ezio Bulleri runs the family winery in their third generation. The winery is located in Crespina Lorenzana, Tuscany, on the beautiful Pisan hills. The vineyards...
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Tenuta di Bibbiano
Tenuta di Bibbiano is owned by brothers Tommaso and Federico Marrocchesi Marzi. It is one of the oldest estates in the Chianti Classico belonging to...
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Podere Albiano
The company was founded in 2000. In 2002, after preparing the land, 4 hectares of vines were planted with different varieties such as Sangiovese, Merlot,...
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Fattoria Poggio Capponi
The first evidence of the farm dates back to the end of the 15th century, during the Renaissance. At that time, Florence was ruled by...
Read MoreViticulture has been practiced in Tuscany since the Etruscan times, and today the region has over 16,000 hectares of vineyards. Tuscany’s wine regions offer unique terroirs, climates, and traditions that contribute to the flavors and styles of the wines.
Montalcino is one such area, where the soil is rich in clay and limestone, and the climate is hot and dry. Montalcino is a part of Tuscany that is renowned for its wine-making tradition and exceptional quality of wine. This region is blessed with an ideal combination of soil, climate and altitude that make it perfect for growing grapes for wine production. Montalcino is situated in a valley in the province of Siena and is considered to be one of the most picturesque and charming towns in Italy.
The striking landscapes of Montalcino are characterized by rolling hills, lush vineyards, and olive groves. The region’s climate is generally hot and dry, with a significant temperature variation between day and night. This natural environment provides optimal conditions for slow ripening of Sangiovese grapes, which results in the development of full flavors and exceptional wine quality. Wine tastings and tours of wine cellars are among the exciting things to do in Montalcino. Visit this delightful town to enjoy its beauty, taste its wines, and immerse yourself in the Italian wine-making tradition.
Wine tasting experiences
Sassetti Livio Pertimali
The family of Livio Sassetti has been producing wine in Montalcino for over three generations. The Podere Pertimali and its 16 hectares of land, 12...
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La Casa di Bricciano – Organic Winery
Surrounded by the hills of Chianti, “La Casa di Bricciano” is a small family run organic farm, which is becoming distinguished for it’s high quality...
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Podere 414
At Podere 414, we rarely wear a coat and tie. However, work boots and a wide brimmed hat come in handy. The “Terroir Maremmano” is...
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Podere La Marronaia
Podere La Marronaia is a farm located in San Gimignano (Siena) in the heart of Tuscany. It was established in 2000 thanks to the enthusiasm...
Read MoreChianti is a true gem of Tuscany, where wine meets stunning natural beauty and fascinating history. Nestled between the picturesque cities of Florence and Siena, this region boasts a hilly terrain and a mild climate, creating the ideal conditions for wine production.
Chianti is considered the cradle of red wine and is widely recognized for its top-quality wines around the world. In particular, the Chianti Classico subregion is known for its unique and exquisite flavors and aromas, making it a true experience for wine connoisseurs.
On top of that, Chianti is also home to endless olive groves and charming medieval towns that provide a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Whether you’re a wine lover, a foodie, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Chianti is a must-visit destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Wine tasting experiences
Patrizia Cencioni
The Patrizia Cencioni Agricultural Company is family-run, managed by the owner Patrizia and her two daughters Annalisa and Arianna. Thanks to the long family experience and the entrepreneurial...
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Bio Fattoria Il Duchesco
Cristina and Fabio have dedicated all their experience to the care of this little jewel in a natural park. They produce jams, EVO oil, wine...
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Villa Cosmiana
Villa Cosmiana is the former Pisan estate of the Antinori family of the dukes of Brindisi. The prestigious estate which extends to over 30 hectares...
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Fattorie Giannozzi
The Giannozzi Family has been pursuing high-quality viticulture for 6 Generations. We preserve our territory by using sustainable wine-growing techniques which have a minimal impact...
Read MoreThe Bolgheri region is situated in the gorgeous southern part of Tuscany and has recently emerged as a fantastic wine region. It boasts of vineyards that are located in close proximity to the stunning Tyrrhenian Sea.
Due to its mild climate, non-native varieties of grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah are grown here with great success. The resulting wines are characterized by their power, full-bodied nature and intricate structure, with rich and concentrated flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and aromatic spices that stimulate the senses in the most pleasing of ways.
What’s more, Bolgheri is home to some of the most famous wineries in the world, including the renowned Ornellaia and Sassicaia, both of which are incredible in their own right. Overall, a visit to Bolgheri is an unforgettable experience for wine aficionados and tourists alike.
Wine tasting experiences
Poderi Borselli
Borselli, the gift of being born in Tuscany Poderi Borselli was started in 1996 thanks to my father Fausto’s idea to recover some abandoned systems...
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Podere Castellinuzza
Podere Castellinuzza has 50 and 60 year old vineyards and very old sapling terraces of over 150 years, at an altitude of 550/600 meters above...
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Campriano – Ranuccio Neri
Campriano is an historical site since Xth century and a village on the way from Siena to the Maremma. We own the property and the...
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Although Montalcino, Chianti, and Bolgheri are among the most famous wine regions in Tuscany, there are several other noteworthy areas that produce excellent wines. For example, Carmignano is situated on the slopes of the Tuscan Apennines, and is notable for its blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Its history stretches back to the 1500s when it was the preferred tipple of the Medici family who ruled Florence.
San Giminiano is an UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its medieval architecture and, of course, its Vernaccia di San Giminiano white wine. Made exclusively from the Vernaccia grape, the wine is dry and crisp, with a slightly bitter aftertaste.
Montepulciano, located southeast of Siena and named after the town with the same name, is known for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. This full-bodied red wine is one of the oldest in Italy, with mentions dating back to the 8th century.
Finally, the Valdichiana region is known for its Chianti Colli Senesi, as well as its Sangiovese and Trebbiano wines. With rolling hills and expanses of vineyards, the region is a pleasant place to visit and taste wine in an Italian countryside setting.
Wine tasting experiences
Tenuta di Campomaggio
Over 120 hectares in the very heart of the Chianti Classico area. The property is located in the municipality of Radda (Siena). It stands on...
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Podere Bellosguardo Wines
Welcome to Bellosguardo Wines, heavenly place close to Foreste Casentinesi National Park, surrounded by medieval villages and Dantesque places. Podere Bellosguardo is a very old...
Read MoreTuscany’s wine regions are not just about the wines. They offer visitors an opportunity to explore the essence of the Tuscan lifestyle, with its traditions, food, and hospitality. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, where visitors can learn about the winemaking process, try the wines, and enjoy the local food specialties. Some wineries have onsite restaurants where visitors can enjoy a meal paired with the wines.
In conclusion, Tuscany’s wines and vineyards are a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just enjoy a glass or two with your meal, Tuscany’s wines offer a range of styles and flavors that won’t disappoint. The region’s vineyards and wineries also offer an experience beyond the wines, with their picturesque landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. So, whether you prefer a traditional Brunello di Montalcino or a bold Bolgheri Superiore, Tuscany’s wines are waiting to be explored.
