Seeing Out The Best Wine Tasting Experience, Tuscan Style

Italy is famous for a great many things, and no region more so than the delightful Tuscany, but perhaps the most famous thing of all is the wine. It’s hard to think of the region without thinking of fantastic wines, made in vineyards that flourish under the beautiful Mediterranean sunshine. For this reason (and so many others!) a visit to a vineyard is one of the best things to do in Tuscany. There are so many great ones out there, but this makes choosing the right one quite a daunting task. 

Here are a few of the best  - and hopefully you might even be tempted to make the trip to two or three.

Castello di Ama

This vineyard hardly needs an introduction, such is the name it has made for its chiantis. The gorgeous estate is home to a twelfth century castle and a fantastic restaurant. As well as enjoying the wonderful wines on display, visitors can bask in the glory of the complementary artwork, such as Buren’s mirror wall which captures the vineyard in all its glory. Trying out the olive oil they make here is another of the wonderful things to do. In Tuscany the wine and olives are some of the best you’ll find anywhere in the world and Castello di Ama has some of the finest.

Livernano & Casalvento

This rustic winery is owned by an American with a huge passion for wine. The lady of the house often meets and greets visitors when they arrive, which makes the tour that much more authentic; it is always good to know that the owners truly care about the product they make. Set in a quaint village, this vineyard is home to a fine restaurant and even finer grapes, and it’s also an idyllic countryside setting in which to enjoy one of the best things to do in Tuscany.

Col d’Orcia, Montalcino

A truly remarkable winery, this one has history resonating from every traditional feature. A visit here sees you step back in time, and the authenticity of the place makes the wine seem to taste even better! Give the fantastic Pinot Grigio a try and indulge in the rustic setting that feels more like a family home than a high-quality wine business. 

Salcheto, Montepulciano

One of the first self-sufficient wineries in Europe is worth a mention and certainly worth a visit. Its organic wines are produced using a variety of environmentally friendly techniques and the taste is that much more refined and purer for it. Their fantastic “Obvius” selection boasts a red, rosé, white and late harvest vintage made of grapes only; all exude unique fruity flavours. 

A Wine Lover’s Paradise

The quality of the produce in these vineyards has to be seen (or tasted) to be believed. Upon visiting it won't be hard to see that sampling these vintages really is one of the top things to do in Tuscany. It’s perfect for wine connoisseurs and it is a great way to get into wine for those who don’t normally drink it. Overall, visiting a quality vineyard is sure to be a highlight of a trip to Tuscany. 

Author Plate

Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering a number of exciting opportunities when it comes to things to do in Tuscany. Whether you want to ride a Vintage Vespa, try the famous Chianti wine or get cooking with fresh local ingredients, Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.