One of the best ways to explore the Tuscan countryside is by going on a wine tour, driving from vineyard to vineyard along cypress-lined roads and olive groves, sampling local wines right where they’re made. There are many wine regions to explore, and we’ll be highlighting the most important ones over the next few weeks, starting with the renowned area of Montalcino.
In the movie “French Kiss,” there’s a charming scene where the French character, played by Kevin Kline, shows Meg Ryan how a wine’s taste changes after she smells different herbs from the garden. This experience, where the scent of indigenous herbs enhances the wine’s flavor, is referred to as “terroir” in French. Terroir describes the unique characteristics that geography imparts on wine, coffee, and tea, influenced by factors like climate, soil type, and topography, as well as nearby trees and spices.
Tasting wine right where it’s produced is an unbeatable experience. It’s not just about the flavors and aromas; it’s also about the stunning views, the sound of cicadas, and the local farmer’s wife passionately explaining her wine in Italian, even if you don’t understand a word. It’s truly a feast for the senses.
Be sure to visit Montalcino in southern Tuscany, a region known for its wine production since the 15th century. Check out La Fortezza, a 14th-century fortress with well-preserved walls, and the nearby Museo Civico e Diocesano, which houses an impressive collection of sacred art.
Montalcino is famous for its Brunello wine, an exclusive and highly esteemed red wine made from Sangiovese grapes. This wine has been produced since 1888 and must age for five years before hitting the shelves, with two of those years spent in oak casks. A more affordable local option is Rosso di Montalcino, which is aged for just one year. You can sample and buy these wines at the Enoteca inside the fortress, where you can also enjoy a light lunch while tasting a variety of Brunellos, Rossos, and other SuperTuscans.
The Sangiovese grape’s name is believed to come from “sanguis Jovis,” meaning “the blood of Jove (Jupiter),” and its history likely dates back to before Roman times. This grape is one of Italy’s main red grape varieties, predominantly grown in the central and southern regions, particularly in Tuscany. The taste of Sangiovese wines can vary significantly depending on the growing conditions and sub-varieties used. If you wish to visit a winery and want to ensure you’re welcome, the local tourist office can help arrange visits to some of the 140 wine producers in the area.
We recommend visiting Poggio Antico, where you can tour the cellars, taste their wines, and enjoy lunch with a scenic view of the estate’s vineyards stretching toward Monte Amiata. Continue your wine tour through beautiful Tuscany by exploring Chianti and nearby Montepulciano, both home to many renowned wines.
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