Brunello di Montalcino Wine Travel Guide (Tuscany, Italy)

Discover Brunello di Montalcino: Tuscany’s Wine Gem

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Brunello di Montalcino is a wine lover’s paradise. This picturesque region produces one of Italy’s most prestigious wines, known for its bold flavors and aging potential.

Towns and Villages

The hilltop town of Montalcino is the epicenter of Brunello production. Its medieval streets and stunning views make it a must-visit destination.

Nearby, Sant’Angelo in Colle and Castelnuovo dell’Abate offer charming alternatives with fewer tourists and authentic Tuscan charm.

Wine Producers

Top producers include:

  • Biondi-Santi: The original creators of Brunello
  • Casanova di Neri: Known for their award-winning wines
  • Il Poggione: One of the oldest estates in the region
  • Altesino: Pioneers of the “cru” concept in Montalcino

Many wineries offer tours and tastings, but advance booking is essential, especially during peak season.

Accommodations

For a luxurious stay, consider Castello Banfi – Il Borgo, a wine resort offering stunning views and world-class amenities.

Hotel Il Giglio in Montalcino’s historic center provides a more budget-friendly option without compromising on charm.

For a unique experience, book an agriturismo like Canalicchio di Sopra, where you can stay on a working wine estate.

Dining

Osteria di Porta al Cassero in Montalcino offers traditional Tuscan cuisine paired with an extensive Brunello wine list.

For a Michelin-starred experience, try Il Silene in Seggiano, known for its innovative takes on local ingredients.

Trattoria Il Pozzo in Sant’Angelo in Colle serves hearty local dishes in a rustic setting, perfect for a casual lunch.

Wine Shops & Bars

Enoteca di Piazza in Montalcino offers an extensive selection of Brunello wines and knowledgeable staff to guide your choices.

Enoteca La Fortezza, located in Montalcino’s fortress, provides wine tastings with panoramic views of the countryside.

For a more intimate experience, visit Enoteca Osticcio, a cozy wine bar featuring local producers and artisanal cheeses.

Other Shops

Drogheria Franci in Montalcino sells local specialties like saffron, honey, and truffle products.

Visit Farmacia Salvioni for unique wine-based cosmetics and locally made soaps.

La Bottega di Adorno offers handcrafted ceramics and glassware, perfect for wine enthusiasts.

Attractions

Explore the Fortress of Montalcino, a 14th-century structure offering stunning views and wine tastings.

Visit the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, a beautiful Romanesque church surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.

Take a stroll through the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its picturesque landscapes.

Events

Attend Benvenuto Brunello in February, where new vintages are released and celebrated.

Experience the Jazz & Wine Festival in July, combining world-class music with excellent wines.

Participate in the Festa dell’Uva (Grape Festival) in September, featuring local music, food, and wine.

Appellations

Brunello di Montalcino DOCG is the region’s most prestigious wine, made from 100% Sangiovese grapes.

Rosso di Montalcino DOC offers a younger, fresher style of Sangiovese wine.

Sant’Antimo DOC allows for the production of various red, white, and rosé wines using both local and international grape varieties.

Grape Varieties

Brunello di Montalcino is made exclusively from Sangiovese grapes. This clone, known locally as “Brunello,” thrives in the region’s unique terroir.

Other varieties grown include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, often used in blends for Rosso di Montalcino or IGT wines.

Main Wine Styles

  • Brunello di Montalcino DOCG: Full-bodied red wine aged for at least 4 years
  • Rosso di Montalcino DOC: Younger, fresher style released after 1 year of aging
  • Moscadello di Montalcino DOC: Sweet white wine made from Muscat grapes
  • Sant’Antimo DOC: Allows for international varietals and blends

Food Specialties

Tuscan cuisine pairs perfectly with Brunello. Pinci pasta, hand-rolled thick spaghetti, is a local favorite.

Other specialties include Panzanella (bread salad), Ribollita (vegetable soup), and Bistecca alla Fiorentina (T-bone steak).

Drives & Walks

Scenic Drives

  • Montalcino to Sant’Angelo in Colle: Stunning vineyard views
  • Montalcino to Castelnuovo dell’Abate: Pass by the Abbey of Sant’Antimo

Walks

  • Montalcino town walls: 1.5 km circular walk with panoramic views
  • Val d’Orcia Nature Park: Various hiking trails through picturesque landscapes

Itineraries

3-Day Wine Lover’s Tour

  1. Day 1: Explore Montalcino, visit Fortress, wine tasting at Enoteca la Fortezza
  2. Day 2: Visit top wineries like Biondi-Santi and Castello Banfi
  3. Day 3: Explore nearby Sant’Angelo in Colle, picnic in vineyards

5-Day Tuscan Experience

  1. Days 1-2: Montalcino and wineries
  2. Day 3: Day trip to Siena
  3. Day 4: Val d’Orcia exploration, visit Pienza
  4. Day 5: Relaxation at local agriturismo, final wine tastings

Getting There & Around

The nearest airports to Montalcino are Florence (120 km) and Pisa (190 km). Rent a car for easy access to wineries and surrounding towns.

Local buses connect Montalcino to Siena and other nearby villages, but service can be limited.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer ideal weather for wine tasting and outdoor activities.

Visit in September for the grape harvest or February for the release of new Brunello vintages.

Sustainability Efforts

Many Montalcino wineries practice organic or biodynamic viticulture. Castello Banfi leads in sustainable winemaking with their patented fermentation tanks.

Support eco-friendly agriturismos and farm-to-table restaurants to minimize your environmental impact.

Language Tips

Learn basic Italian wine terms: “Salute!” for cheers, “Cantina” for winery, and “Degustazione” for tasting.

Most wineries offer tours in English, but knowing some Italian enhances your experience with locals.

Further Resources