The Montalcino Wine Route

The enchanted land of Montalcino is one of the most prestigious wine districts in Tuscany and its wines, Brunello and Rosso di Montalcino, are recognised all over the world as some of Italy’s highly-esteemed blends. It occupies a pocket of beautiful hilly countryside about 50 km south of Siena, where the sunny exposure and the natural protection of Mount Amiata provide the ideal conditions for the cultivation of Sangiovese, the only grapes allowed for the production of these unique wines.

Somewhat unique is also the history of Brunello di Montalcino, whose appearance on the market was the result of an attempt to broaden the region’s oenological production, which was traditionally focused on the making of a sweet white wine. The first bottles officially debuted in 1869 and today Brunello is one of Tuscany’s most sought-after wine labels. The other local blend, Rosso di Montalcino is made from the same grapes but it’s fruitier and much lighter, as it doesn’t require the same lengthy ageing.  

A wine tour in Montalcino provides wonderful insights into the making of this Tuscan excellence, whose production must comply with very specific standards and regulations. There are numerous boutique estates and cozy, family-run wineries open for visits all over the area, offering tours and tasting sessions that include also lesser-known local blends like Sant’Antimo and Moscadello, all complemented with scrumptious local specialties.

Montalcino sits at the heart of the Orcia Valley, a Unesco-listed stretch of Tuscan countryside that offers tons of gorgeous medieval hamlets, natural beauties and gastronomic outlets for those looking to explore a little beyond wines. Major highlights include the walled hamlet of Buonconvento, the delightful village of San Quirico, which sits along the Via Francigena pilgrimage route, and the fascinating Abbey of Sant’Antimo, whose sacristy is said to have been founded by no less than Emperor Charlemagne. 

Montalcino itself is a real medieval gem, teemed with ancient palaces, lovely squares ad lots of magical viewpoints over the Tuscan countryside. Just a short drive away are other two great must-sees: Pienza, the postcard perfect capital of pecorino cheese with a precious old town brimming with scenic corners, and Bagno Vignoni, famous for its natural hot springs that have been used since ancient Roman times.