In our last article we discussed how wine is a good reason to visit Tuscany and mentioned some of the best places to learn about, taste and fully experience wine and the culture of wine in the region.
However, we had a few more suggestions that we couldn't squeeze in so here are two more places that are a must for any wine lovers doing a tour of Tuscany.
Montepulciano is famous for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, one of three great Sangiovese DOCG zones in Tuscany. The wine was first documented in 789 AD when a cleric, Arnipert, offered the church of San Silvestre some vineyards attached to the castle of Policiano.
However, we had a few more suggestions that we couldn't squeeze in so here are two more places that are a must for any wine lovers doing a tour of Tuscany.
Montepulciano is famous for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, one of three great Sangiovese DOCG zones in Tuscany. The wine was first documented in 789 AD when a cleric, Arnipert, offered the church of San Silvestre some vineyards attached to the castle of Policiano.
However, it is not as well known as other Tuscan wines, partially due to the wine being labelled and sold as Chianti in the 19th century.
The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOC was established in the 1960s and it was promoted to DOCG status in 1980 – the first in Italy – and this has helped rebuild its popularity somewhat.
It is said to combine the richness of Brunello di Montalcino with the perfume of Chianti Classico and tends to be medium to full-bodied with firm tannins, lively acidity, fleshy strawberry and cherry fruit and hints of tea leaves. Generally aged for two years before it is sold, good examples can be kept for 8-15 years and superior ones for decades.
It is also one more reason to find a holiday villa in Tuscany and explore Montepulciano.
The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOC was established in the 1960s and it was promoted to DOCG status in 1980 – the first in Italy – and this has helped rebuild its popularity somewhat.
It is said to combine the richness of Brunello di Montalcino with the perfume of Chianti Classico and tends to be medium to full-bodied with firm tannins, lively acidity, fleshy strawberry and cherry fruit and hints of tea leaves. Generally aged for two years before it is sold, good examples can be kept for 8-15 years and superior ones for decades.
It is also one more reason to find a holiday villa in Tuscany and explore Montepulciano.
Another famous Tuscan wine is Vin Santo. Made in many parts of Italy, the best comes from Tuscany and here are three recognized DOC’s in Tuscany for Vin Santo. They are Vin Santo del Chianti (created in 1997), Vin Santo del Chianti Classico (1995) and Vin Santo di Montepulciano (1996). Many sub-par versions are made elsewhere but these are the ones that you should try and taste if visiting Tuscany.
Why not find a luxury villa in Tuscany and try all three on your trip? The name Vin Santo literally means “saint wine” and there are several origin stories. Made from a blend of white grapes, specifically Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia, with the occasional use of Grechetto, there is both a white and red version, called Occhio di Pernice. With some Italian desserts, sitting outside and enjoying the beauty of Tuscany, Vin Santo is just the perfect accompaniment to any holiday!
Why not find a luxury villa in Tuscany and try all three on your trip? The name Vin Santo literally means “saint wine” and there are several origin stories. Made from a blend of white grapes, specifically Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia, with the occasional use of Grechetto, there is both a white and red version, called Occhio di Pernice. With some Italian desserts, sitting outside and enjoying the beauty of Tuscany, Vin Santo is just the perfect accompaniment to any holiday!
