If you’re one to enjoy the finer things in life, then you are certainly in good company when you’re visiting Italy. With gorgeous scenery, delicious food, rich culture, and most importantly – impeccable wine; there’s no better place to enjoy such indulgences than in Tuscany, home to some of Italy’s most renowned wines and wineries. Read on to discover our handpicked list of the best wineries in Tuscany for wine lovers like yourself.
1. Castellare di Castellina
Media mogul Paolo Panerai oversees one of Tuscany’s most renowned wineries, highly praised for its premium Super-Tuscan wine I Sodi di S. Nicolo as well as its superb Chianti Classicos and Vin Santos. The vineyards are situated in a natural amphitheatre, amongst some of the highest points in Tuscany. We advise to book tours and picnics in advance so you may fully experience the estate’s dedication to biodiversity across its beautiful landscape.
2. Castello di Ama
We highly recommend booking in advance and allowing ample time for a tour and tasting at this esteemed estate located near Siena and its picturesque village. Their wines, such as the top-end Merlot L’Apparita and Chianti Classico selections, are rightly acclaimed, so prices reflect their quality. While it is possible to sample the pours at the village wine bar L’Enoteca or over lunch at the estate restaurant Il Ristoro di Ama, you would miss out on sights of the sprawling, immaculate gardens and buildings featuring fourteen art installations throughout the grand grounds.
3. Antinori Chianti Classico
Without question, Antinori is one of the most famous names in Tuscan wine across the globe. Their flagship estate in Bargino provides an abundance of experiences for visitors beyond simply tasting wines in the showroom. Be sure to book in advance for their varied tours and tastings, which include an introductory film, cellar visits, trips to the on-site art museum and naturally, sampling their range of wines which transport you across Tuscany. The Rinuccio 1180 restaurant, perched atop the winery with its glass-walled panoramas, is the perfect spot to take in the countryside vistas over an alfresco meal or glass of the local produce.
4. Barone Ricasoli
Ricasoli Estate is Italy’s oldest vineyard, with a history spanning over 900 years. It was here that Chianti wine as we know it today was invented by the infamous “Iron Baron” Bettino Ricasoli in 1872. He proposed the now famous Sangiovese-based blend that put Chianti on the world map. The imposing Ricasoli family castle, Brolio, opens its grand gates to visitors looking to experience Tuscany’s rich winemaking heritage. A variety offers experiences from casual drop-in tastings at their vineyard shop, to more elaborate guided tours and gourmet dinners showcasing the finest local produce.
5. Avignonesi
Avignonesi, located in Montepulciano, is one of Italy’s most historic wine estates, tracing its roots back to the mid-16th century. Since coming under new ownership in 2009, the winery has undergone a revitalisation of sorts. Among the changes, its 345 acre vineyards are now farmed organically. The estate produces a diverse portfolio of wines, perhaps best known for its Vin Santo and Vino Nobile labels. However, the range also features other exciting bottlings. Visitors are welcome to discover these through a variety of tour, tasting and dining experiences available at the winery. Do note it is closed during the months of January and February.
6. Capezzana
This flagship estate of Carmignano is frequently at the vanguard, being the first for example to introduce Cabernet Sauvignon into its blends. The excellent wine portfolio ranges from great everyday options such as the Barco Reale, up to the fuller bodied Super-Tuscan ‘Ghiaie della Furba’. The esteemed Bonacossi family provide visitors with a variety of opportunities, including guided tours with tastings and lunch (be sure to book a terrace table at the Vinsantaia restaurant), in addition to a cooking school. Accommodation is also available in two historic buildings, one being a former hunting lodge once used by the illustrious Medici family.
7. Salcheto
If you’re interested in biodynamics, sustainability and superb Tuscan wines, look no further than this outstanding estate southeast of Siena. Open all year for tours and tastings, you can discover their gentle approach to vineyard management and production of the silky, full-bodied Vino Nobile di Montepulciano for which the region is renowned. Be sure to enjoy lunch on the beautiful terrace restaurant, taking in the picture postcard views while feasting on seasonal dishes showcasing the estate’s own black truffles. Friendly multilingual guides will ensure your visit is an informative one. All in all, a must for oenophiles and foodies alike.
8. Capo d’Uomo
The vineyards perched along the sea cliffs of the Argentario promontory are truly a spectacular sight to behold. Terraced on the steep slopes overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the vines produce grapes of exceptional quality. The wines produced from these grapes are exclusive blends available nowhere else. Two robust red varietals and a crisp white wine capture the flavours of the territory and pay homage to the winds that sweep across the vineyards each day.
9. Castigion del Bosco
The famous Ferragamo family established this luxury resort estate on over 5,000 acres of land in Montalcino’s Val d’Orcia region, with a history dating back to 600 BC. Things have received a considerable modern update, with a world-class Brunello di Montalcino winery, restaurants utilising produce freshly sourced from the on-site gardens, high-quality accommodation (the resort is managed by Rosewood Hotels), and an 18-hole golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf, which makes the most of the rolling landscape.
10. Fattoria La Loggia
Just south of Florence lies this historic estate with origins dating back to 1427. Once under Medici rule, it is now a sprawling complex of ancient stone buildings, walls, towers and cellars that overlook breathtaking panoramic views across the Chianti hills. Renowned for its wines, such as the popular Nearco Super-Tuscan and a celebratory spumante, the estate has become a stylish destination for those interested in food, drink and art. The owners complement the fine vino selection with their impressive private collection, ensuring visitors are well-immersed in both the natural beauty and cultural riches of Tuscany.
