Montepulciano is a captivating medieval town in Tuscany that sits atop a limestone ridge, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Famous for its exquisite wines and rich history, this enchanting destination attracts wine enthusiasts and history buffs. I have visited it twice, and it’s always a great time.
Montepulciano’s allure goes beyond its beautiful scenery and ancient streets; it’s the birthplace of some of Italy’s most renowned wines. This article will explore Montepulciano’s vibrant wine culture, highlight its famous vintages, and offer tips for visiting local wineries, giving you a taste of this Tuscan gem’s viticultural heritage.
This post contains affiliates
👉🏼 Book Wine Tours
👉🏼Find Amazing hotels
What Wine Is Montepulciano Known For?
Montepulciano is renowned for its production of the esteemed Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. This exceptional red wine is primarily made from the Sangiovese grape, known locally as Prugnolo Gentile. The name of the wine, which translates to “The Noble Wine of Montepulciano,” reflects its historic prestige as a wine suitable for nobility.
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano has rightfully earned its place among Italy’s finest wines. It boasts a DOCG (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) status, the highest classification for Italian wines.
The wine is aged for a minimum of two years, often in oak barrels, giving it a complex character with dark cherry, plum, leather, and spice notes. It embodies the essence of Tuscany’s terroir, offering a rich and full-bodied experience with well-balanced acidity and tannins.
For those who appreciate the finer things in life, a glass of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a true taste of Italian elegance.
How to Get to Montepulciano?
Montepulciano is easily accessible from several major cities in Italy. The nearest airports are located in Florence and Rome, both of which are approximately a 2-hour drive away. If you prefer public transportation, you can take a train to Chiusi-Chianciano Terme, the closest train station to Montepulciano, which is about 30 minutes away by bus or taxi.
Additionally, there are buses that run directly from Siena and Florence to Montepulciano. If you choose to drive, renting a car is an option, and you can enjoy a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside from Florence or Rome.
Best Time of Year to Visit Montepulciano Wineries
The best time to visit Montepulciano wineries is during the spring (April to June) and fall(September to October). During these months, you can enjoy pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and the opportunity to see the vineyards in full bloom or during the harvest season. The harvesttime, which takes place in late September to October, is particularly special, as the vineyards are bustling with activity, and many wineries offer special tours and tastings.
Best Montepulciano Wineries
Montepulciano is famous for its exceptional wineries and world-class wines, especially the renowned Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Here are some of the top wineries to visit in Montepulciano:
Cantina de’ Ricci
Cantina de’ Ricci, dating back to 1150, boasts spectacular underground areas and offers fantastic tours. It is one of the region’s oldest and most famous wine cellars, known for its stunning Renaissance architecture and deep historical roots that date back to the 16th century.
Location and History
The Cantina de’ Ricci is located in the heart of Montepulciano, underneath the grand Palazzo Ricci, a Renaissance palace that serves as a prominent architectural landmark. The winery’s cellars are among the oldest and most impressive in Montepulciano, carved deep into the tuff rock beneath the palace.
Constructed in the 16th century by the Ricci family, one of Montepulciano’s most distinguished noble families, these cellars bear witness to the family’s deep involvement in the region’s winemaking traditions.
The Cellars
Due to their grandeur and monumental architecture, the cellars of Cantina de’ Ricci are often described as a “cathedral of wine.” Visitors are struck by the soaring vaulted ceilings, massive stone columns, and sheer scale of the underground space, which creates a dramatic and awe-inspiring atmosphere. These cellars have been carefully preserved over the centuries, maintaining their historical integrity while serving as a functional space for aging wines.
Wine Production
Cantina de’ Ricci is famous for producing Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, one of Tuscany’s most prestigious wines. The winery is dedicated to making high-quality wines that showcase Montepulciano’s unique terroir. Their Vino Nobile is mainly made from the Sangiovese grape, locally known as Prugnolo Gentile, blended with small amounts of other traditional Tuscan grape varieties like Canaiolo and Mammolo.
The wines are aged in large oak casks in historic cellars, where the cool, stable temperatures and high humidity create ideal conditions for the slow, graceful aging of the wine. In addition to Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Cantina de’ Ricci also produces Rosso di Montepulciano, a younger and more accessible red wine, and other traditional Tuscan wines.
Wine Tasting and Tours
Cantina de’ Ricci offers an unforgettable wine-tasting experience, allowing visitors to sample their acclaimed wines in the extraordinary setting of the ancient cellars. The guided tours provide insight into the Ricci family’s history, the cellars’ architectural significance, and the winemaking process. The winery also offers tastings paired with local Tuscan delicacies, enhancing the overall experience.
Cultural Significance
Cantina de’ Ricci is more than just a winery; it is Montepulciano’s cultural and historical gem. The cellars are renowned as one of the most beautiful and historically significant sites in the region, attracting wine enthusiasts and history and architecture lovers. Preserving these cellars ensures that Montepulciano’s rich winemaking heritage continues to be cherished and passed down to future generations.
Recognition
Cantina de’ Ricci’s wines have earned praise and recognition for their quality and authenticity, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions of Montepulciano. Their Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is particularly esteemed, known for its rich flavors, elegant structure, and potential for aging.
Cantine Contucci
Cantine Contucci is one of the oldest and most prestigious wineries in Montepulciano, Tuscany, with a history of nearly 1,000 years. The Contucci family has been involved in winemaking since the Renaissance, making them one of the founding families of the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, one of Italy’s most celebrated wines.
Location and History
Cantine Contucci is located in the historic center of Montepulciano, adjacent to the famous Piazza Grande, the town’s main square. The Contucci Palace, where the winery is housed, is an architectural gem boasting Renaissance features and a deep connection to the town’s history and culture. The family’s involvement in winemaking dates back to at least the 11th century, and the Contucci family has played a significant role in the development and recognition of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
The Contucci Cellars
The Cantine Contucci cellars are a remarkable part of the estate, winding beneath the historic palace. These ancient cellars have been used for centuries to age the estate’s wines, and they still house large oak barrels where the Vino Nobile matures.
The cellars are a living testament to the Contucci family’s long-standing winemaking traditions and provide an atmospheric backdrop for the aging process, which is crucial to the character and quality of their wines.
Wine Production
Cantine Contucci is best known for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a wine that is deeply rooted in the terroir of Montepulciano and the expertise of the Contucci family. The winery produces several variations of Vino Nobile, including a Riserva that is aged for a longer period to develop even greater complexity and depth.
In addition to Vino Nobile, the estate produces Rosso di Montepulciano, a younger and fruitier wine, as well as other traditional Tuscan wines like Bianco della Contessa, which is a white wine blend, and Vin Santo, a classic Tuscan dessert wine.
The wines are made primarily from Sangiovese (Prugnolo Gentile), with small amounts of other local grape varieties like Canaiolo and Mammolo, which add nuance to the blends.
Wine Tasting and Tours
Visitors to Cantine Contucci can enjoy guided tours of the historic cellars, learning about the family’s winemaking heritage and the intricate process behind their celebrated wines.
The winery offers tastings of their various wines, often accompanied by local Tuscan delicacies. The tasting experience is enriched by the setting in the ancient cellars and the opportunity to learn directly from members of the Contucci family, who are often involved in hosting guests.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Cantine Contucci is not just a winery; it is a cornerstone of Montepulciano’s cultural and historical identity. The Contucci family has been instrumental in the town’s development over the centuries, and their continued dedication to winemaking helps preserve Montepulciano’s rich heritage.
The Contucci Palace is a symbol of this legacy, with its Renaissance architecture and art adding to the winery’s allure.
Recognition
The wines of Cantine Contucci have been highly regarded for centuries, receiving numerous accolades for their quality and authenticity. The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano from Cantine Contucci is remarkably esteemed, known for its elegance, complexity, and ability to age gracefully.
The winery’s commitment to traditional winemaking methods and a deep respect for the land continue to make their wines some of the best examples of Tuscan viticulture.
Gattavecchi
Located conveniently near the town center, Gattavecchi is praised for its wine quality and dining experience. The Gattavecchi family has been involved in winemaking for generations, and their estate combines the rich history of the region with a dedication to quality and authenticity.
Location and History
The Gattavecchi winery is located in the former convent, the ancient Monastery of Santa Maria dei Servi, which dates back to the 12th century. This historic setting, just outside the town walls of Montepulciano, provides a unique and atmospheric backdrop for the winery.
The Gattavecchi family has been producing wine in Montepulciano for over a century, and their deep connection to the region is reflected in their commitment to traditional winemaking practices.
The Cellars
The cellars of Gattavecchi are located beneath the ancient monastery, where the cool, stable environment provides ideal conditions for aging wine. These historic cellars, with their vaulted ceilings and thick stone walls, are integral to the production process, particularly for their Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which is aged in large oak barrels to achieve its distinctive character.
Wine Production
Gattavecchi is best known for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a wine representing Tuscan winemaking’s pinnacle. The winery uses primarily Sangiovese (Prugnolo Gentile) grapes, along with small amounts of other traditional varieties such as Canaiolo and Colorino. Its wines are crafted to express the unique terroir of Montepulciano, combining traditional methods with careful attention to detail.
In addition to Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Gattavecchi produces a range of other wines, including Rosso di Montepulciano, a fresher and more approachable red wine, and Chianti Colli Senesi, made from grapes grown in the Chianti subregion near Montepulciano. They also produce Vin Santo, a classic Tuscan dessert wine, using the ancient method of air-drying grapes before fermentation.
Wine Tasting and Culinary Experience
Gattavecchi offers a comprehensive wine-tasting experience, often paired with traditional Tuscan cuisine. The winery’s on-site restaurant, “Osteria Gattavecchi,” is a popular destination for visitors who enjoy authentic Tuscan dishes made from local ingredients. The restaurant is housed in the former monastery, providing a rustic yet elegant setting where guests can savor Gattavecchi wines alongside delicious regional specialties.
The wine-tasting experience at Gattavecchi often includes a tour of the historic cellars, where visitors can learn about the winemaking process and the history of the estate. The tastings are typically guided by members of the Gattavecchi family, who share their knowledge and passion for their wines.
Cultural and Historical Significance
The Gattavecchi winery is more than just a producer of fine wines; it is a guardian of Montepulciano’s cultural heritage. The conversion of the ancient monastery into a winery has preserved an important piece of the region’s history, and the Gattavecchi family’s ongoing dedication to traditional winemaking helps maintain the legacy of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Book Wine Tour.
Recognition
Gattavecchi’s wines are well-known for their quality and authenticity, and have earned a loyal following among wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs. Among their wines, the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is particularly esteemed for its balance, depth, and expression of the Montepulciano terroir.
The Gattavecchi family’s dedication to preserving traditional methods while embracing innovation ensures that their wines continue to be among the best in the region.
div data-gyg-widget=”auto” data-gyg-partner-id=”VEMHNYB”>Avignonesi
Although located near Valiano di Montepulciano, Avignonesi is worth mentioning for its exceptional wines and experiences. It is renowned for its commitment to producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region, particularly Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
Avignonesi is also known for its dedication to organic and biodynamic farming practices, which have become a hallmark of its winemaking philosophy.
Location and History
The Avignonesi estate is located in the rolling hills of Tuscany, with vineyards spread across several prime locations near Montepulciano and Cortona. The winery was established in 1974 and quickly gained a reputation for producing exceptional wines. In 2009, the estate was acquired by Virginie Saverys, a Belgian entrepreneur with a passion for sustainable agriculture and winemaking.
Under her leadership, Avignonesi has transitioned to organic and biodynamic practices, solidifying its status as a leader in sustainable viticulture.
The Vineyards
Avignonesi’s vineyards cover approximately 200 hectares, primarily located in the Montepulciano area. The estate is dedicated to organic and biodynamic farming, using no synthetic chemicals in the vineyards and employing natural methods to preserve soil health and balance. This approach not only improves grape quality, but also supports biodiversity and sustainability.
The vineyards are mainly planted with Sangiovese, the grape variety used to produce Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, along with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and other traditional and international grape varieties. The diversity of the vineyards enables Avignonesi to produce a wide range of wines, each with its own distinct character.
Wine Production
The winery produces several expressions of Vino Nobile, including single-vineyard selections that showcase the unique characteristics of specific plots. These wines are aged in a combination of large oak casks and smaller barrels to achieve the perfect balance of fruit, structure, and oak influence.
In addition to Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Avignonesi produces a variety of other wines, including Rosso di Montepulciano, a younger and more approachable red wine, and Desiderio, a Merlot-based wine that has become one of the estate’s flagship offerings.
The winery also produces Occhio di Pernice, a rare and exquisite Vin Santo made from air-dried Sangiovese grapes, which is one of Tuscany’s most esteemed dessert wines.
Organic and Biodynamic Practices
Avignonesi is known for its dedication to organic and biodynamic farming. The entire estate is certified organic, and all vineyards are managed according to biodynamic principles. This includes using natural preparations, following the lunar calendar for various farming activities, and creating a self-sustaining ecosystem within the vineyards. These practices are thought to improve the soil’s vitality and grape quality, resulting in wines that truly reflect their terroir.
Wine Tasting and Tours
Avignonesi offers a variety of wine-tasting experiences and tours for visitors. The estate’s tasting room is located in a beautifully restored Tuscan farmhouse, where guests can enjoy guided tastings of the winery’s full range of wines.
Tours often include a visit to the vineyards and cellars, where visitors can learn about the biodynamic practices and the winemaking process. Additionally, the estate has a culinary program that offers farm-to-table dining experiences, pairing Avignonesi wines with seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Recognition and Awards
Avignonesi’s wines have received numerous awards and accolades over the years, reflecting the estate’s dedication to quality and innovation. The winery’s Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is particularly acclaimed, and often praised for its depth, elegance, and aging potential. The estate’s commitment to sustainability has also earned it recognition as a leader in organic and biodynamic winemaking.
Poliziano Winery
Poliziano is known for its meticulous vineyard management and modern winemaking techniques. Founded in 1961 by Dino Carletti, Poliziano has grown into a leading producer in the Montepulciano region, recognized for its commitment to quality and its innovative approach to winemaking.
Location and Vineyards
The Poliziano Winery is situated just outside the town of Montepulciano, in the heart of Tuscany. Covering approximately 170 hectares, the estate’s vineyards are primarily located on the rolling hills surrounding the town.
The vineyards are positioned at altitudes ranging from 280 to 450 meters above sea level, which provides ideal conditions for cultivating Sangiovese, the main grape variety used in crafting Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Additionally, the estate grows other grape varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot.
Wine Production
Poliziano is best known for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which consistently ranks among the best in the region. The winery produces several versions of Vino Nobile, including the “Asinone” single-vineyard selection, which is particularly esteemed for its depth, complexity, and aging potential. “Asinone” is often considered one of the flagship wines of the Montepulciano region.
Poliziano produces a variety of wines, including Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which is a high-quality red wine known for its aging potential. They also produce Rosso di Montepulciano, a younger and more approachable red wine, as well as Super Tuscans like “Le Stanze,” which is a Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Additionally, their portfolio includes Chianti, whites, and rosés, showcasing the diversity and quality of their winemaking.
Innovation and Quality
Poliziano has a reputation for combining traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovations to enhance the quality of its wines. The winery employs state-of-the-art technology in the vineyard and cellar, while still respecting the traditional methods that define Tuscan winemaking. This balance of tradition and innovation has helped Poliziano maintain its position as one of the top producers in the region.
Recognition and Awards
Poliziano Winery has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, both in Italy and internationally. Their Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, especially the “Asinone” label, regularly receives high scores from wine critics and is featured in top wine publications. The winery’s commitment to quality and excellence has earned it a strong reputation among wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
Wine Tasting and Tours
Poliziano offers a range of wine-tasting experiences and tours for visitors. Guests can explore the vineyards, visit the modern cellar, and enjoy guided tastings of Poliziano’s wines, often paired with local Tuscan delicacies.
The winery’s tasting room provides a welcoming and informative environment, where visitors can learn about the history of the estate, the winemaking process, and the unique characteristics of the wines.
Salcheto Winery
Salcheto is known for its sustainable and biodynamic approach to winemaking, producing exceptional Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG wines. Visitors can tour the eco-friendly vineyard and learn about its commitment to environmental responsibility. The winery has gained recognition for its dedication to sustainability alongside wine quality.
Location and History
Salcheto is situated in the picturesque hills of Montepulciano, Tuscany. The winery is named after the Salcheto stream, which flows through the vineyards and is surrounded by locally known oak trees called “salcheto.” Established in 1984, the winery has become a prominent producer of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, known for blending traditional winemaking methods with modern, eco-friendly innovations.
Sustainability and Innovation
Salcheto is a pioneer in sustainable winemaking. The winery is fully energy-independent, utilizing renewable energy sources such as solar power and biomass. The estate is also carbon-neutral, and the winery’s operations are designed to minimize its environmental impact, from water conservation to waste management.
Salcheto is particularly known for its use of innovative technology to reduce its carbon footprint, including a gravity-fed winery design that minimizes the need for pumps and other energy-consuming equipment. The winery also practices organic and biodynamic farming, avoiding synthetic chemicals and emphasizing the health of the soil and the surrounding ecosystem.
Wine Production
Salcheto produces a range of wines, with Vino Nobile di Montepulciano as its flagship. The winery’s Vino Nobile is renowned for its rich, complex flavors and balanced profile, reflecting both the Montepulciano terroir and the winery’s commitment to quality. In addition to Vino Nobile, Salcheto also produces Rosso di Montepulciano, a younger, fresher wine, along with various other reds, including Chianti and a selection of IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica) wines.
One of Salcheto’s notable wines is “Obvius,” a line of wines made without added sulfites or other additives, further showcasing the winery’s dedication to natural winemaking processes.
Overall if you are heading to Montepulciano, visit one of these wineries above and you can’t go wrong.
