A Tour Of Montalcino’s Finest Wine Tours: 6 Best Tours
Montalcino, situated in the heart of Tuscany, is a popular destination for tourists or wine enthusiasts looking to try one of the world's most prestigious red wines. If you’re a red wine lover like me,
Montalcino, situated in the heart of Tuscany, is a popular destination for tourists or wine enthusiasts looking to try one of the world’s most prestigious red wines. If you’re a red wine lover like me, then a trip to Montalcino in Tuscany is an absolute dream.
This picturesque hilltop town is renowned for its world-famous Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy’s finest wines. And with many wine tour options available, I’m pretty sure you will get the most immersive wine-tasting experiences available.
This article is a guide to the six best wine tours in Montalcino, with recommendations for all types of travelers. This is also the lowdown on the best wineries, tours, activities, tips on where to stay, where to dine, and everything else that can turn your Montalcino trip into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re planning a wine-centric getaway, a romantic trip, or a laid-back food experience, this guide will help you navigate the choices.
Small-Group Brunello di Montalcino Wine-Tasting Trip from Siena
Cost: From $203
Duration: approx. 9 hours
Tour Operator: Tuscan Escapes by Papilio SRL
This full-day, small-group tour from Siena offers a perfect blend of wine tasting, history, and local culture. You’ll visit three small, family-run wineries, and taste both Rosso di Montalcino and Brunello di Montalcino. One highlight is the stop at the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, a stunning ancient abbey where Gregorian chants can occasionally be heard. The tour also offers a deep dive into traditional Tuscan cuisine with a fantastic lunch at a family-run winery.
Why we recommend this tour
- The personal touch at each winery – smaller groups make for a more intimate experience.
- This is a great tour for first-time visitors. It’s small-scale, intimate, and offers a wonderful mix of history, local food, and of course, wine.
- The stop at the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, where Gregorian chants occasionally fill the air, adding a mystical touch to the trip.
Pro Tip: The Abbey of Sant’Antimo is part of this tour. It’s a stunning medieval site, and if you’re lucky, you’ll hear the monks chanting, which is one of those “pinch me” moments. Bring a good camera!
Brunello di Montalcino, Small Biodynamic Wineries
Cost: From $337
Duration: 8 hours
Tour Operator: De Gustibus Tours
If you’re really into biodynamic wine production, this tour is for you. You’ll visit two biodynamic wineries, the area’s finest boutique wineries that focus on sustainable, organic methods. The tour includes tasting wine straight from the barrel, which is a special experience in itself. Lunch is included, featuring local Tuscan fare paired with a variety of wines.
Why we recommend this tour
- This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts interested in the organic and biodynamic processes of winemaking. The lunch alone, paired with wine and served with stunning views, makes it worth the trip.
- The focus is on small, family-run estates where each wine has a personal story.
- The deep dive into biodynamic practices that make you appreciate the craft behind every bottle.
Pro Tip: Try the Pappa al Pomodoro during lunch – it’s a simple yet heavenly dish that pairs wonderfully with Rosso di Montalcino. PS. Ask the winemakers to explain biodynamics if you’re new to it—hearing about the philosophy behind the process makes the wine taste even better, trust me!
Brunello Cooking Class with Vineyards View
Photo credit: Forzoni Tours
Cost: From $507.69
Duration: 4 hours
Tour Operator: Forzoni Tours
Who doesn’t want to cook and sip wine on a terrace with views of rolling vineyards? This half-day tour offers a hands-on cooking experience where you’ll learn how to prepare authentic Tuscan dishes like Tagliatelle with Tuscan sauces, braised beef, and cantucci. After your cooking class, enjoy a private wine tasting and tour of a 13th-century Castello di Tricerchi wine cellar.
Why we recommend this tour
- The incredible scenery – it’s not every day you get to cook in a panoramic terrace kitchen overlooking Tuscan hills.
- The perfect balance between food and wine – everything you prepare is paired with exceptional wines.
- You’ll get hands-on in the kitchen and then savor your creations alongside a Brunello wine tasting.
Pro Tip: You don’t need to be a master chef to enjoy this cooking class. They guide you step-by-step, and by the end, you’ll feel like you could open your own trattoria. Also, the photos you’ll take here? Instagram gold.
Exclusive Brunello di Montalcino from Florence
Cost: From $597
Duration: 11 hours 30 minutes
Tour Operator: Enotropea Tours
This private, all-inclusive day trip from Florence is designed for those who want to experience the best of Montalcino without the hassle of planning. You’ll visit three family-run wineries, enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch, and learn everything there is to know about Brunello di Montalcino. With a guide handling all the logistics, you can focus entirely on enjoying the wine.
Why we recommend this tour
- This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts who want a hassle-free, high-quality experience with lots of personal attention.
- The in-depth look into Brunello production and the personal stories of each winemaker.
- A full day without the worry of driving, so you can fully indulge in every tasting.
Pro Tip: Make sure you pack a camera – the views during the drive and at each winery are absolutely stunning.
Private Tour: Pienza and Montalcino Organic Cheese and Wine
Cost: From $789.73 per group (up to 6)
Duration: 8 hours
Tour Operator: Tuscan Escapes by Papilio SRL
If you’re traveling with a group and want a private, intimate experience, this is the tour to book. You’ll start with a visit to a local organic dairy farm near Pienza, where you’ll learn all about cheese-making and sample some delicious Pecorino. Then, it’s off to Montalcino to visit a renowned Brunello winery. The tour includes a stop in the charming town of Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Why we recommend this tour
- The personalized experience – being in a small group made it feel like a custom-made adventure.
- Perfect for small groups or families, this tour gives a more personalized and intimate experience.
- The delicious Pecorino cheese paired with a glass of Brunello – an unforgettable combination!
Pro Tip: This tour is ideal if you love both cheese and wine. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the artisan products of Tuscany.
Authentic 7-Day Tuscany Tour
Cost: From $4,073.37 (price varies by group size)
Duration: 8 days
Tour Operator: Tuscany Untouched Pty Ltd
For the ultimate wine and food experience, why not spend an entire week immersing yourself in the flavors of Tuscany? You’ll stay in a charming Tuscan farmhouse, explore the Val d’Orcia, Chianti, and Casentino Valley, and enjoy farm-to-table meals. From hikes in the Pratomagno mountains to cooking classes and wine tastings at local farmhouses, this week-long adventure is perfect for anyone looking to go beyond the usual tourist spots. Wine tasting is, of course, a big part of the experience, with stops at multiple Brunello di Montalcino wineries.
Why we recommend this tour
- The opportunity to stay in a charming Tuscan farmhouse, which really made me feel like I was living in Tuscany.
- The variety of experiences, from wine tastings to hands-on cooking lessons.
- This is for travelers who want to immerse themselves fully in the Tuscan way of life.
- It’s a multi-day, slow-paced tour that covers everything from wine to hiking and medieval villages.
Pro Tip: Pack comfortable shoes and be ready to explore – every day is filled with new adventures and delicious discoveries.
Why Montalcino?
Montalcino isn’t just about the wine (though it’s mostly about the wine). It’s a stunning medieval town sitting atop a hill with views of the beautiful Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Besides wine tasting, you can stroll through ancient streets, visit the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, and indulge in local culinary delights like pecorino cheese, truffles, and honey. Brunello di Montalcino, made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, is the crown jewel here, and the region is home to some of the oldest and most respected wineries in Italy.
The history of Montalcino’s wine production can be traced back to the 14th century when the Sangiovese grape was first planted in the area. Today, the area is home to over 200+ vineyards and wineries with some of the most famous being: Poggio Antico, Altesino, and Castello Banfi.
When planning a wine tour in Montalcino, it is essential to consider the time of year as the experience can vary significantly depending on the season. During the harvest in September and October, visitors get the opportunity to join in the grape-picking process, whereas in the off-season, tourists get to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and have the vineyards all to themselves.
Wineries to Visit in Montalcino
When it comes to wineries, Montalcino is brimming with world-renowned estates. Here are ten of the most famous ones where you can taste Brunello at its finest:
- Biondi Santi – The birthplace of Brunello di Montalcino. You cannot miss this legendary estate.
- Casanova di Neri – Known for modern-style Brunello. Their wines are rich, powerful, and unforgettable.
- Castello Banfi – A mix of old-world tradition and modern innovation, plus the estate is stunning.
- Siro Pacenti – One of the newer kids on the block, but they make consistently excellent wines.
- Le Ragnaie – This organic winery sits at the highest elevation in Montalcino, which results in unique, elegant Brunellos.
- Il Poggione – A traditional winery with over a century of history. Their Brunello is a true classic.
- Salvioni – Small production but huge reputation. It’s family-run and incredibly authentic.
- Altesino – A mix of tradition and modernity, and they offer one of the most picturesque settings for tastings.
- Poggio di Sotto – Known for producing some of the finest, most elegant Brunellos.
- Barbi – One of the oldest wineries in Montalcino, with a rich history and consistently excellent wines.
Where to Stay in Montalcino
Photo credit: Castello Banfi – Il Borgo
If looking for a place to stay in Montalcino, here is our list of places to stay for every budget.
- Castello di Velona Resort – A luxury resort with stunning views and an on-site thermal spa.
- Agriturismo Le Ragnaie – A charming farm stay with beautiful vineyards.
- Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco – Luxurious villas set in the heart of wine country.
- Hotel Dei Capitani – A budget-friendly option with great views.
- Il Borgo di Castelvecchio – Cozy and rustic, with a wonderful sense of history.
- La Bandita Townhouse – Chic and modern, perfect for couples.
- Locanda Demetra – Ideal for foodies, with cooking classes on-site.
- Villa Le Prata – A boutique winery hotel offering private tastings.
- Castello Banfi – Il Borgo – Set within a medieval castle with excellent service.
And if you need tips on where to stay, we’ve got an article about Tuscany cozy villas near wineries for a perfect getaway. PS. If staying near Florence, here is our list of the most prestigious wineries near Florence, so you might as well check those.
Where to Dine in Montalcino
Montalcino and the nearby area are full of really, I mean, really good places to dine. Here are some of the places we recommend:
- Osteria La Crocina – Farm-to-table dining with stunning vineyard views.
- Ristorante Il Leccio – A cozy spot offering traditional Tuscan cuisine.
- Osteria di Porta al Cassero – Excellent for local flavors and friendly service.
- Enoteca Osticcio – Enjoy your meal with a view of the Val d’Orcia.
- Drogheria Franci – Offers incredible Tuscan dishes with a modern twist.
- Ristorante Re di Macchia – An intimate dining experience focusing on local ingredients.
- Taverna del Grappolo Blu – A great spot for homemade pasta.
- Enoteca la Fortezza di Montalcino – Located inside a historic fortress.
- Il Giglio – Upscale dining with excellent wine pairings.
- Ristorante Boccon di Vino – Perfect for a romantic dinner with panoramic views.
What to Do in Montalcino (Besides Wine!)
When you’re not sipping Brunello or rolling out fresh pasta, Montalcino offers plenty to explore. Here are some of my favorite things to keep wine off your radar:
- Visit the Abbey of Sant’Antimo: A beautiful Romanesque abbey where you might catch the monks performing Gregorian chants.
- Climb the Fortress of Montalcino: The views are spectacular, and there’s a wine bar inside. Yes, you read that right.
- Explore Val d’Orcia: A UNESCO World Heritage site that’s perfect for hiking, photography, or a leisurely drive.
- Attend the Sagra del Tordo: Montalcino’s annual archery and medieval festival, usually held in October.
- Hike to the Montosoli Vineyard – If you enjoy walking and want to earn your wine, hike up to this legendary vineyard.
- Visit the Civic and Diocesan Museum – If you’re a history buff, this museum has some fascinating pieces that trace the area’s medieval past.
- Tour a Family-Owned Olive Oil Mill – Because Tuscan olive oil deserves its own day in the spotlight.
- Go Truffle Hunting – You’re in Tuscany, so truffles are a big deal. There are tours that let you hunt for them with local experts and their dogs.
- Walk the Streets of Pienza – This nearby village is known for its pecorino cheese and charming streets.
- Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride – See Montalcino from the skies. It’s a splurge, but the views are unbelievable.
- Take a Day Trip to Siena – It’s only about 45 minutes away, and Siena is full of history and beauty.
- Visit Castello Banfi – This castle houses a winery, museum, and luxury hotel. A must-see for wine lovers.
- Explore Sant’Angelo in Colle – A tiny hilltop village with amazing views and a couple of great restaurants.
- Attend a Cooking Class at Il Borgo di Vino – An alternative to the cooking class I mentioned earlier. This one’s more casual, and the food is just as good.
- Relax in Bagno Vignoni – Natural hot springs that the Romans used back in the day.
- Visit San Quirico d’Orcia – Another nearby village with history and charm. Perfect for a quiet afternoon.
- Bike the Wine Roads – Rent a bike and ride through the vineyards. It’s a great way to burn off all that pasta.
- Take a Photography Tour – If you’re into photography, book a local guide to show you the best spots to capture Tuscany.
- Shop for Local Ceramics – Tuscany is known for its ceramics, and you can find some beautiful hand-painted pieces in Montalcino.
Making the Best of Your Montalcino Wine Tour
For a fulfilling wine tour experience in Montalcino, visitors are advised to plan early, book in advance, and avoid peak seasons. Avoid rushing the experience, engage with the locals, and learn about their culture and history. Tasting different varieties of wine, including the Brunello di Montalcino, is an excellent way to learn more about the region’s wine culture.
Ultimately, Montalcino’s wine tours are a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts looking to enhance their wine experience. With its rich history, exceptional quality wine, and picturesque views, Montalcino creates a unique wine experience that tourists should not miss.
For more information about Tuscany, check our articles on the topics of the best wine shops and wine bars in the region. Tuscany has more than just beautiful wineries and historic sites. If you’re interested, we’ve also covered the topic of cooking classes and wine pairing in Tuscany, the best Chianti wine tours, and the best wineries to stay in Tuscany.
PPS. If you’re heading to Valpolicella after visiting Tuscany, check out our ultimate guide to Italy’s Valpolicella wine region.
