Howdy! Today we are visiting some of the best Tuscan Wineries in Italy. Last week, we visited Napa Valley and visited some of their best, but the experiences you will have in Italy are truly unmatched.
Tastings in Italy are more than just a a few minutes of sampling. It is very much an immersive experience into the fabric and history of Italy. Food is also a very important of the wine tasting experience so be prepared to enjoy perfect pairings that will enhance the flavors of the wine.
Tuscan Grape Varieties
Before we get into the best places, we first must understand the varieties of grape you will encounter. One of the most important of all Italian wine grapes is Sangiovese. It actually accounts for about two-thirds of all plantings and 85% of the red wine volume in the region.
You can find Sangiovese in Chianti, as well as small traces of Canaiolo, and Colorino. And increasingly in batches of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Most recently, there has been a rise of Super Tuscans. Super Tuscans include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Bordeaux varieties and Syrah. Several neglected grapes are also making an appearance such as Ciliegiolo and Pugnitello.
You can also find white varities such as Trebbiano, Malvasia, Vermentino and Vernaccia. You can find Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blac and Viognier in small quantities.
Top 5 Tuscan Wineries
Now that you are fully educated on what to expect let’s visit the Top 5 Tuscan Wineries you absolutely must visit when in Italy.
Castello di Nipozzano
Built to guard Florence, you will find this 1,000 year old castle. What could be better than enjoying your favorite glass of wine while visiting a castle?! In 1944 the castle was destroyed but has been partially rebuild. You can still see the original cellar at the Renaissance villa.
Nipozzano is a true working farm complete with olive trees and an on-site olive press. Your visit includes a tour of the incredible cellars used to age Chianti Rufina, as well as a tasting in the old kitchen.
While there is not a restaurant on-site you can request a meal which is prepared using products grown right on the property! You must book your visit in advance, so don’t expect to just walk in.
Le Macchiole Bolgheri
If you are looking for something other than Sangiovese, Le Macchiole is a must-see on your list! Your tasting includes a small, private tour around the Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Merlot.
Following your tour of the cellar includes your tasting in one of their two tasting rooms. You will enjoy one of the absolute best Cabernet Francs produced in Italy along with single varietal Merlots and Syrah.
Reservations are required and should be booked at least a week in advance.
Castiglion del Bosco, Montalcino
Owned by Massimo Ferragamo, this estate includes a 13th-century church. He has transformed this estate creating a modern-style Brunello and includes 2 restaurants, a spa and one of Italy’s most sought-after golf courses.
No matter you wine knowledge, your tour will take you to see the Campo del Drago plot, a trip to the barrel cellar, and of course, a tasting complete with local cheeses and salami.
Campo del Drago is the main restaurant on-site, and is known for it’s delicious cuisine and elegant feel. The traditional trattoria is the second restaurant on-site and provides you with a more casual experience.
There are a variety of tours you can book, but again you must book in advance.
Salcheto, Montepulciano
In 2011, Salcheto became the first self-sufficient winery in Europe. Most of the energy comes from renewable sources and recycled winery materials.
Your tour includes an insight into the technology used in the production and ageing room.
Don’t forget to stop at the enoteca. You will enjoy wine by the glass and a light lunch including cold cuts, cheeses and other simple dishes. Step out on the terrace for incredible views of Montepulciano!
Monteverro, Capalbio
Monteverro is one of the newest wineries that is built around the owners love of Bordeaux varietals.
Again, you must make reservations for your tour in advance. However, your tour includes a quick tour of the bug hotel. The bug hotel is a small structure designed to bring friendly insects to the vineyards. You can enjoy a leisurely walk around the vineyards before ended up in the barrel and tasting room.
This is not your typical Tuscan wine-making tour, but is a must-see for those who have been to Bolgheri. Guests will get too witness this families ambition to create a world class wine, that could quite possibly give Bolgheri a run for it’s money!
Are you Ready to go?
Don’t just dream about Tuscan Wineries, contact your Travel Guru today to make this dream a reality. They can provide you with price points, hotel options and curate your ultimate Italian wine vacation! Oh, and if you need a payment plant to fund your next adventure-we got those too!
Namaste
