When it comes to the best Chianti wineries in Tuscany, everyone will have their own opinions. Some base their designation of “best” on the wines themselves, which in this region are of course dominated by Chianti and Chianti Riserva. Others take into consideration the landscape of the vineyards, most of which feature elegant estates surrounded by varying shades of green from towering cypress trees, silver-tipped olive groves and the grape vines themselves.
Chianti is not a city but rather an area in the vicinity of Castellina, Panzano and Greve.
On one day tours in Tuscany, you will have plenty of time to visit some of the wineries considered by locals to be the best in the Chianti region. Here are a few notable standouts.
The cellars at Antinori, in Bargino, were designed to give guests a view into the wine-making process. The structure and surrounding grounds make up an architectural masterpiece, making it worth the visit even for people who do not appreciate wine.
In Greve, Montefioralle Winery receives consistently high marks from visitors for its educational and interesting tours, stunning views and delicious wines. While you are in Greve, you might also pay a visit the Enoteca del Chianti Classico for an informative exploration of the history of the region.
Near Panzano, the organic farm of Fontodi is a great place to discover not only great wine but Tuscan hospitality: tastings are free! Like many other Chianti wineries, the Fontodi estate produces olive oil as well as wine. You may also spot the famous all-white Chianina cattle grazing in the hills — a breathtaking beast!
In Ruffina, east of Florence, Fattoria Selvapiana sells fine Chianti wines in a different atmosphere. The land is the situated at the base of the Apennine mountains that divide Tuscany and Emiglia Romana, but still considered part of the Chianti wine production area. Indeed, labels bearing the name Ruffina can be found in shops all over the world.
As you will learn on private day trips in Chianti, the grapes that make up Chianti wine are predominantly Sangiovese. Before you leave the wineries along your tour route, you might also ask to try the concentrated blend of dried white grapes known as Vin Santo del Chianti Classico. Vin Santo also makes an ideal souvenir of your Tuscan holiday. Visitors on Tuscany guided tours who enjoy olive oil as much as wine will enjoy the wineries situated along the Strada del Vino e del Olio Chianti Classico: the road of wine and olive oil.
By the end of your tour expertly navigated by Tuscan Travellers’ private drivers, you will have your own list of the best wineries in Chianti. This arrangement that lets you sit back and enjoy the ride, free to indulge as much as you wish in the best Chianti wines and wineries along the way.