Romantic Escape to Montepulciano: A Journey Through History and Wine

Discovering Montepulciano's Treasures

Today was a day of exploring the spiritual and the spirited sides of Montepulciano. From the awe-inspiring Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio to the historic cellars of De' Ricci Cantine Storiche in Montepulciano, and the vibrant Piazza Grande, every moment felt like stepping deeper into the heart of Tuscany. David and I embraced the day with open hearts, ready to soak in the beauty and history around us.


Explore the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio, a serene Catholic church in Tuscany, blending spiritual reflection with breathtaking landscapes.

The morning began with a delightful breakfast at La Corte Dell' Ulivo. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air as we sat on the terrace, enjoying the panoramic views of the rolling hills. It was the perfect start to a day filled with exploration.

Our first stop was the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio, a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. As we approached the temple, its grandeur took my breath away. The warm, amber travertine stone glowed in the morning sun, and the symmetrical design was a testament to the genius of Antonio da Sangallo the Elder. The temple seemed to rise from the flat meadow where it was built, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding landscape. The story of the temple is as fascinating as its design. Built between 1518 and 1545, it stands on the site of an ancient church where a miraculous event was said to have occurred. Legend has it that in April 1518, two women and a shepherd witnessed the eyes of the Virgin Mary on a fresco open and close, as if she were alive. This miracle prompted the construction of the magnificent sanctuary we see today.

Walking around the exterior, I admired the perfect proportions and the meticulous details. The unfinished bell tower on one side added a touch of imperfection to the otherwise flawless structure, reminding me that even the grandest endeavors can have their shortcomings. Inside, the dome soared above us, creating a sense of infinite space. The light filtering through the windows illuminated the intricate frescoes and sculptures, filling the space with a serene and spiritual atmosphere. David, ever the history enthusiast, was captivated by the stories behind each artwork, sharing his knowledge and enriching my experience.

    

The beauty of San Biagio lies not only in its architectural perfection but also in the stories and faith that permeate its very stones.

Leaving the sanctuary, we made our way to De' Ricci Cantine Storiche, a historical wine cellar in the heart of Montepulciano. This was an experience I was particularly looking forward to, knowing Montepulciano's reputation for its Vino Nobile. The entrance to the cellar was unassuming, but as we descended the stone steps, we were transported into a subterranean world of wine-making history. The cellars were carved deep into the earth, creating a cool, dark environment perfect for aging wine. The air was thick with the scent of oak and fermenting grapes, a heady aroma that spoke of tradition and craftsmanship. The De' Ricci cellars are not just a place to store wine; they are a living museum. The architecture itself is a marvel, with vaulted ceilings and ancient brickwork that has witnessed centuries of wine production. I learned that the cellars were designed to maintain a constant temperature and humidity, essential for the slow and careful aging process that gives Vino Nobile its distinctive character. We wandered through the labyrinthine tunnels, marveling at the rows upon rows of oak barrels, each one holding the promise of a rich and complex wine. Our guide explained the traditional methods used in the production of Vino Nobile, from the careful selection of grapes to the long fermentation and aging process. It was fascinating to hear about the dedication and passion that goes into every bottle.


Experience the rich heritage and exquisite wines at De' Ricci Cantine Storiche, a must-visit winery in the beautiful town of Montepulciano, Tuscany.

Of course, no visit to a wine cellar would be complete without a tasting. We sampled several vintages of Vino Nobile, each one offering a unique expression of the terroir. The rich, full-bodied flavors, with hints of cherry and spice, were a delight to my palate. I could understand why this wine is so highly regarded around the world. As we swirled and sipped, I thought about the generations of wine-makers who had perfected their craft in these very cellars. It was a humbling experience, connecting us to the rich history and traditions of Montepulciano.

For lunch, we stopped at Baccano Hostarìa Montepulciano, a charming restaurant known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine. We shared a plate of handmade pici pasta with a rich ragu sauce, a local specialty that was absolutely divine. The pasta was perfectly al dente, and the sauce was bursting with flavor. We also tried the local pecorino cheese, which was creamy and tangy, a perfect complement to the pasta. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff made us feel like part of the family. It was the perfect place to relax and refuel after a morning of exploration.

In the afternoon, we strolled through Piazza Grande, the heart of Montepulciano. This central square is surrounded by magnificent buildings, each one a testament to the town's rich history and architectural heritage. The Palazzo Comunale, with its elegant travertine façade and crenellated tower, dominates the square. I learned that it was designed by Michelozzo, a student of Donatello, and its architecture reflects the influence of the Palazzo della Signoria in Florence. David and I climbed to the top of the tower, and the panoramic views were simply breathtaking. We could see the rolling hills of Tuscany stretching out in every direction, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque villages. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the beauty and tranquility that this region has to offer.


Discover the charm of Piazza Grande, Montepulciano's stunning town square, surrounded by rich history, breathtaking architecture, and exquisite Tuscan wines.

The square was bustling with activity. Locals and tourists mingled, enjoying the warm sunshine and the vibrant atmosphere. Street performers entertained the crowds, and the sound of music filled the air. I couldn't help but feel a sense of joy and connection to this vibrant community. We paused for a moment to admire the Pozzo dei Grifi e dei Leoni, a well designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder. The well is adorned with the Medici coat of arms, a reminder of the family's influence on Montepulciano. I learned that Piazza Grande has been the site of many historical events, including festivals, markets, and even film sets. The square was used as a location for the movie *New Moon* in the *Twilight* saga, a fact that has drawn many fans to Montepulciano.

Before dinner, we indulged in some retail therapy at La Bottega di Pinocchio, a whimsical shop filled with wooden toys and handicrafts. I couldn't resist buying a small Pinocchio figurine as a souvenir, a reminder of the playful spirit of Montepulciano. The shop was a treasure trove of unique and charming items, each one handcrafted with care and attention to detail. It was a delightful experience, browsing through the shelves and discovering hidden gems. I even found a beautifully carved wooden bird that I knew Aina would adore.


Explore La Bottega di Pinocchio in Montepulciano for unique gifts, local crafts, and a taste of Tuscany's enchanting culture.

As the day drew to a close, we enjoyed dinner at E Lucevan le Stelle - Wine Bar Bistro, a cozy restaurant with a romantic ambiance. The food was exquisite, and the wine list was extensive. I savored every bite of the handmade ravioli, filled with ricotta and spinach, and the grilled steak was cooked to perfection. The service was impeccable, and the staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover E Lucevan le Stelle: A delightful wine bar bistro in Montepulciano offering exquisite Tuscan cuisine and enchanting live jazz music.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I am excited about our planned visit to the Riserva naturale Lucciola Bella, where we hope to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the Tuscan countryside. We also plan to visit the Avignonesi Winery Fattoria Le Capezzine, another renowned wine producer in the region, and enjoy the panoramic views from Punto panoramico. And, of course, we'll end the day with a relaxing drink at Opificio 16 - Enoteca & Wine Bar.

Today was a day of discovery, a day of connecting with the history, culture, and flavors of Montepulciano. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience this beautiful town with David, and I look forward to many more adventures in the days to come. As I reflect on the day, I am reminded of the importance of embracing the present moment and appreciating the beauty that surrounds us. Montepulciano has a way of slowing down time, allowing you to savor every experience and create lasting memories.