Dreaming of a wine-filled getaway in the Tuscan hills? Imagine yourself tucked away in a quaint medieval town, surrounded by picturesque vineyards while you sip some of Italy’s most prestigious wines.
That’s the kind of dreamy vacay the best wineries in Tuscany have in store for you.
Visiting wineries is one of the best things to do in Tuscany, but choosing which ones may seem impossible.
This guide is here to help narrow down the very best. I’ll also add in a few hotel options and some tips to make your trip planning easier.
Let’s dive in!
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Where to Stay in Tuscany Wine Country
One amazing feature of Tuscan wineries is that many of them offer accommodation, from luxury vineyard resorts to charming villas and country hotels.
Here are some fabulous options to consider to give you an idea of what to expect.
- Wine Resort Conti di San Bonifacio ($$$): Rustic, traditional, and surrounded by stunning vineyard views, you can’t go wrong with this wine resort. Enjoy an infinity pool with landscape views, elegant decor, and cookery courses onsite.
- L’Andana Tenuta La Badiola ($$): For an elegant escape among manicured gardens, stay at this 5-star Tuscan villa. Blending modern with classical elements, this hotel has spa facilities, indoor and outdoor pools, and two onsite restaurants.
- Badia a Coltibuono Wine Resort ($): This quaint wine resort is ideal for traveling on a budget, but still experiencing a lavish countryside stay. The rooms are decorated with traditional Tuscan elements, with majestic gardens and lush greenery all around.
Top Wineries in Tuscany
Whether you want to experience an authentic Tuscan wine tasting or learn all about Italian wine-making history, the following establishments can give you that and more.
To make things easier, I will divide this list into Tuscany’s main wine regions.
Chianti
Chianti is a treasure trove for wine connoisseurs, giving you a blend of historic estates, wineries, and jaw-dropping scenery.
Sangiovese is the main grape cultivated in the Chianti region, most notably known for medium-bodied red wines with notes of cherry, herbs, and earth.
Castello di Brolio
First up is one of the best Tuscany wineries found in the Chianti region.
Founded in 1141, Castello di Brolio has dominated the southern Chianti Classico countryside for over ten centuries.
With so much history and tradition steeped in its winemaking, it’s no secret that this estate is a must-visit and the birthplace of Chianti Classico.
Take the classic tour that takes you through the winery and its cellars with wine tasting. Otherwise, go for the vineyard tour that shows you the cellars, winery, and vineyards of the estate.
Regardless of your choice, you’ll get to explore a medieval castle, taste renowned wines, and learn about the Ricasoli family at the winery’s museum.
Antinori nel Chianti Classico
The Antinori family established this winery in 1385 and has become internationally known, winning first place as the World’s Best Vineyards in 2022.
The Antinori nel Chianti Classico has a Wine Shop and a private room next door where tastings happen.
There’s also the signature Rinuccio 1180, a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views of olive groves and ancient churches.
Brunello di Montalcino
Situated at the hilltop town of Montalcino, Brunello di Montalcino is famous for its full-bodied, rich, and aged wines from 100% Sangiovese (locally called Brunello).
Expect deep cherry, spice, and leather notes.
Fattoria dei Barbi
With award-winning bottles behind its name, the Fattoria dei Barbi wine estate has been operating since 1352.
Today, the estate offers museum tours and tastings in an enchanting setting, while giving you insights into Brunello’s heritage.
With a heavy emphasis on the traditions and values of the Montalcinese culture, this winery was the first to export Brunello to Europe, America, and Asia since 1892.
Guests can learn all about the estate’s rich history through a tour of the Brunello Museum. Tour the ageing cellars as well, paired with fine wine and food.
Castello Banfi
Enjoy tours and tastings at the esteemed Castello Banfi winery.
As a prominent producer of Brunello wines, this elegant estate promises top-of-the-line experiences set among beautiful landscapes.
Come here for a great lunch with tasty wine and food pairings.
Visit the onsite wine bar that offers Tuscan-inspired platters of local cured meats, cheeses, and Banfi plums.
Then, the professionally guided wine tasting tours allow you to savor flavors of Brunello di Montalcino, Bolgheri, Chianti, Chianti Classico, and Super Tuscans.
San Gimignano
San Gimignano is known for its Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a crisp, mineral-driven white wine.
Created from the Vernaccia grape, the wines here are light to medium-bodied, often with citrus, almond, and saline notes.
Tenuta Torciano
Having been around for 13 generations, Tenuta Torciano Winery knows a thing or two about producing some of Tuscany’s best wines.
Founded in 1720, this historic estate is mostly known for its Vernaccia di San Gimignano and Super Tuscan wines.
The winery also offers delicious local eats like truffle lasagna paired with the wine tastings.
They also host several events, festivals, and unique experiences such as helicopter wine tours and horseback riding throughout the year.
So, be sure to check out their site to possibly add them to your itinerary.
Fattoria Poggio Alloro
For a more down-to-earth experience, go to Fattoria Poggio Alloro. Operating like a family-run farm, this stunning winery produces very good Vernaccia and Chianti wines.
Then, to elevate your visit, they offer farm-to-table style meals with dreamy views of San Gimignano’s striking medieval towers.
Spend the day strolling its magazine-worthy grounds, digging into hearty Tuscan cuisine, or admiring the winemaking process in the cellar.
You can also join cooking classes, join guided tours, or visit nearby spas to conclude your day.
Bolgheri
Experience a coastal gem with a more “experimental” approach, resulting in Super Tuscans, high-quality wines made outside traditional DOC regulations.
Blending Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and more, iconic wines of this region include Sassicaia and Ornellaia.
Tenuta San Guido
Your first stop in Bolgheri should be at the Tenuta San Guido winery, a place known for its Sassicaia wines (the original Super Tuscan).
As a pioneer in the Bolgheri DOC, expect nothing short of a magical experience laced with traditions, history, and good wine.
The winery stands out for its Bordeaux-style blends, founded by Mario Incisa della Rocchetta in 1944.
Join an unforgettable cellar tour that takes you through all the processes of winemaking.
For a more personal affair, opt for a customised wine tour instead, which takes place over a few days, highlighting the wine and gastronomic culture of Bolgheri.
Tenuta Di Vaira
The Di Vaira family arrived in the heart of the Bolgheri DOC in the 1950s and established this unique winery.
Tenuta Di Vaira is a family-run estate that uses organic practices to produce remarkable wines that reflect tradition and distinct Bolgheri characteristics.
Join an elegant winery tour that kicks off with an introduction to the region and the Di Vaira family.
Then, you’ll wander through vineyards and olive groves until you reach the tasting room that boasts panoramic views of vineyards and Castiglioncello di Bolgheri (a simple, yet fascinating castle).
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
Located in Montepulciano (not to be confused with the grape), this region produces elegant reds that are softer than Brunello but more refined than basic Chianti.
Salcheto S.R.L
Salcheto, an eco-friendly and sustainable winery in the heart of Tuscany is a must.
Sitting among the misty Montepulciano hillsides, this winery idles perfectly between traditional and futuristic with innovative approaches to winemaking.
They offer a range of wine cellar tours, from tasting old vintages to private tours with winemakers, and “blind tastings”.
As for the food pairings, Salcheto has a new restaurant, Indigeno, that uses organic and locally sourced ingredients (some from their garden) to create hearty dishes.
Icario Winery
Last but not least, I had to mention Icario Winery.
Founded in 1999, this winery is about 126 acres and sits halfway between Val di Chiana and Val d’Orcia.
Home to award-winning wines and fine arts, this winery is deeply rooted in sustainability and blends tradition with innovative technology.
Their method certainly worked. As of now, they produce classic and award-winning blends that give you an authentic taste of Tuscany.
These include their crown jewel, Sansasia, made from the finest selection of Sangiovese grapes, or the Vitaroccia Riserva, a refined blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Take part in private wine-tasting tours, cellar excursions, or a delicious four-course lunch prepared by chefs.
Tips for Visiting the Best Vineyards in Tuscany
Ready to start sipping through Tuscany’s lush, rolling hills? Well, take a look at these handy tips before you do.
- Make sure you book tours and tastings in advance, as most wineries only accept visitors with bookings.
- Wear comfortable and practical footwear like sneakers or flats, and bring layers in case the evenings get chilly.
- If you’re visiting more than one winery in Tuscany per day, it’s essential to pace yourself by dedicating two to four hours to each winery.
- Don’t be afraid or shy to ask questions! Engage with winemakers and staff, but in a respectful and kind way.
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