Montalcino Food & Wine Tour

If you are looking for one day trips in Tuscany, it is wise to consider a wine tour of the hilltop town of Montalcino. Montalcino is conveniently located approximately 70 miles (110 kilometers) from Florence. And what scenic miles! The journey to reach Montalcino is characterized by sloping green hills and fertile fields, until you can see in the distance the stone city in the sky. In addition to the sweet white wine Moscadello, the town is world-famous for a garnet-colored wine known as Brunello di Montalcino, the English translation of which is “nice dark one”. Brunello wine is derived from Sangiovese grapes, which also contribute to many of the wines coming from nearby Chianti.

Even in medieval Montalcino, Brunello wine was enjoyed by locals. In the centuries that have passed since production began in the 1300’s, the wine has developed a wider reputation as an excellent product that can be stored for decades without diminishing its taste and integrity. When paired with pecorino cheese and red meat, the flavors of each individual item are enhanced. Visiting Montalcino for a wine tour will provide an unforgettable multi-sensory impression of a charming place in Italian culture and history.

A Montalcino wine tour is a great way to experience one of the most picturesque towns of the truly super Tuscan wine region. If you are visiting nearby Florence in the month of February, you just might catch the “Benvenuto Brunello” festival, an event that attracts wine critics and experts from far and wide to taste the latest vintage of Brunello di Montalcino. No matter when you find yourself within a day’s drive of Montalcino, guided tours and transfers in Tuscany abound, making it easy to fit the town into a tight touring schedule.

Even without a festival adding pomp and fanfare to the streets, Montalcino will be a highlight of any trip to Tuscany. History buffs will find plenty of interest in the town that was first settled by the Etruscans. Like many other cities with such ancient roots, it is easy to feel transported back in time while walking along the cobble stoned streets past old fortresses and churches, and inhaling the aromas of fresh breads and roasted meats coming from the kitchens of homes and restaurants. Museums and galleries house priceless works of art by Italian masters.

Flying into Florence for a week and overwhelmed by all there is to do and see in the city? Be sure to think beyond the city walls and include at least one day to breathe in the fresh air and taste the fruits of the local vines in the green Tuscan countryside.
Transfers from Florence to Montalcino for a wine tour can be arranged by most hotels and tourist companies, and you are sure to enjoy the trip to and from Montalcino as much as the city and its fantastic wines.