Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is one of Italy's great wines. Here's where to taste it best — from ancient city-centre cellars to hilltop estates with panoramic views.
The Ultimate Guide to Wine Tasting in Montepulciano
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano — made from the Prugnolo Gentile grape (a local clone of Sangiovese) — has been produced in these hills since at least the 8th century. The poet Francesco Redi called it "king of all wines" in 1685, and it's been earning the title ever since.
Here's where to taste it best.
In the Historic Centre
**1. Cantina de' Ricci** · 📍 Map
One of the oldest and most atmospheric cellars in Montepulciano, built directly into the tufa rock beneath the town. The labyrinthine cellars extend for hundreds of metres, housing historic amphoras alongside modern steel tanks. Their flagship Vino Nobile Riserva is consistently excellent.
The Contucci family has been producing wine here since the 16th century. Their cellars beneath the Palazzo Contucci at the top of Via di Gracciano are among the most historically significant in all of Tuscany. Friendly, unhurried tastings — often with a family member.
**3. Avignonesi** · 📍 Map
Once the creative powerhouse of Montepulciano wine, Avignonesi was pioneering biodynamic viticulture before anyone else was talking about it. Their estate outside town (San Felice) offers excellent tours and the chance to taste their legendary Occhio di Pernice vin santo.
On the Wine Road (Strada del Vino)
My personal favourite winery in the area. Caterina Dei makes wines of extraordinary elegance — her Vino Nobile is consistently one of the best in the DOCG, and the visit is personal and unhurried. The estate sits on a quiet road just outside town with gorgeous vineyard views. Book a morning slot and give yourself time to linger.
Run by Swiss owner Rudolf Bindella with Swiss-level attention to detail. The vineyards are farmed organically, the wines are clean and structured, and the Vallocaia estate makes for one of the most pleasant visits in the area. The single-vineyard "I Quadri" Vino Nobile is exceptional in good years. Stay for lunch if you can — the food matches the wine.
Named after the Renaissance poet born in Montepulciano, Poliziano is one of the top producers in the DOCG. Their Asinone cru is among the finest single-vineyard Vino Nobiles you'll find. Stunning location with panoramic tasting room.
**7. Boscarelli** · 📍 Map
A family winery of great integrity, producing both traditional and modern-style Vino Nobile. The De Ferrari family have been farming these specific plots for generations. Tastings are personal and illuminating.
The most forward-thinking producer in the appellation. Salcheto has invested heavily in sustainability — they produce zero net CO2 and track environmental impact with forensic precision. The wines are equally precise: taut, mineral, long. Excellent value.
Hidden Gems Worth Seeking Out
A small, artisan producer that flies below most tourists' radar. The Crociani family makes tiny quantities of outstanding Vino Nobile from old vines. Tastings are by appointment and utterly authentic — you'll likely taste in the working cantina with the winemaker present.
A modern estate with a beautiful contemporary tasting room, Icario has emerged as one of the most exciting new voices in Montepulciano. Their entry-level Vitaroccia is remarkable at the price.
**11. La Ciarliana** · 📍 Map
Organically farmed estate with a loyal following among Montepulciano insiders. Look for their Vino Nobile and the white Podere La Ciarliana — an unusual but delicious departure from the norm.
**12. Tenute del Cerro** · 📍 Map
Owned by the SAI insurance group, Cerro is the largest producer in the appellation but maintains quality through rigorous selection. Worth visiting for sheer scale — their cellars are spectacular — and for the accessible, well-made range.
Practical Tips for Wine Tasting in Montepulciano
- Book in advance for the smaller estates — they often require appointments, especially in summer
- Walk the Corso — many of the historic cellar doors (enoteche) in town centre offer tastings without booking
- Hire a driver or join a tour if you want to visit multiple wineries — the roads are narrow and winding
- Visit in October for harvest season — you can often see wine production in action
As guests at Molino Nobile, we can arrange private winery visits and tastings at our partner estates, including cellars not normally open to the public. Just ask.
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