Exploring the Charms of Montepulciano: A Tuscan Adventure

Beneath the Surface of Montepulciano

Today was all about delving deeper into the heart of Montepulciano, both literally and figuratively. Klaus and I set out to uncover the town's hidden layers, exploring its ancient cellars, savoring its renowned wines, and soaking in the authentic Tuscan atmosphere. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the joy of discovery, the richness of history, and the simple pleasure of sharing it all with my beloved Klaus.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Locanda e Cantina Cicolina. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the promise of Tuscan pastries filled the air. We settled into a cozy corner, ready to fuel up for our adventures. I savored a cappuccino while Klaus enjoyed a strong espresso, and we shared a flaky, almond-studded pastry that was just the right amount of sweet. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the Ercolani Cellars - Underground City and Museum. This was an experience I had been particularly looking forward to, and it did not disappoint. As we descended into the cool depths of the cellars, it felt like stepping back in time. The Ercolani family has created something truly special here, a living museum beneath the streets of Montepulciano. Our guide led us through a labyrinth of ancient tunnels, each revealing a different chapter of the town's history. We saw Etruscan tombs, medieval passages, and Renaissance-era artifacts, all intertwined with the story of the Ercolani family's wine-making tradition.


Explore the enchanting underground cellars of Ercolani in Montepulciano, where wine, history, and tradition intertwine in a unique tasting experience.
The tour culminated in a wine tasting, where we sampled several of the Ercolani's Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Each sip was a revelation, a testament to the family's dedication and the unique terroir of the region. I found myself particularly drawn to the 2018 vintage, with its complex notes of cherry, plum, and spice. Klaus, ever the pragmatist, appreciated the full-bodied structure and smooth tannins. We ended up purchasing a few bottles to bring back to Heidelberg, a delicious reminder of our time in Montepulciano.

The best journeys are those that lead us not only to new places, but also to new perspectives.

After our subterranean adventure, we drove to Avignonesi Winery Fattoria Le Capezzine. The drive itself was a treat, winding through rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves. Avignonesi is renowned for its commitment to biodynamic farming, and the estate exuded a sense of harmony and balance. We opted for a tour and tasting, eager to learn more about their sustainable approach to wine-making.


Discover Avignonesi Winery in Montepulciano - a Tuscan treasure for wine lovers featuring stunning views, exquisite tastings, and rich winemaking traditions.
Our guide, a passionate young woman named Isabella, explained the principles of biodynamics, emphasizing the importance of soil health, biodiversity, and natural cycles. We strolled through the vineyards, admiring the lush greenery and the panoramic views. Isabella pointed out the various herbs and flowers planted among the vines, each playing a role in the estate's ecosystem. It was inspiring to see a winery so dedicated to preserving the environment.

The tasting was a sensory delight, showcasing the breadth and depth of Avignonesi's portfolio. We sampled everything from their crisp, refreshing white wines to their complex, age-worthy reds. The highlight was undoubtedly the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a wine that perfectly embodies the elegance and power of Sangiovese. I was also intrigued by their Vin Santo, a traditional Tuscan dessert wine made from dried grapes. Its rich, honeyed flavors were the perfect complement to a plate of biscotti.

For lunch, we indulged in a delightful meal at La Corte Dell' Ulivo. The restaurant is nestled in a charming corner of Montepulciano, with a picturesque view of the surrounding countryside. We started with a selection of Tuscan antipasti, including cured meats, cheeses, and bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil. For our main courses, I chose the pici pasta with wild boar ragu, while Klaus opted for the grilled Florentine steak. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, showcasing the simple yet exquisite flavors of Tuscan cuisine. The service was attentive and friendly, making us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Corte Dell' Ulivo in Montepulciano, where delicious pizzas meet Tuscan charm.
After lunch, we decided to take a leisurely stroll through the town, making our way towards Porta del Pianello. This ancient gate, also known as Porta Nuova or Porta Senese, is a beautiful example of 14th-century military architecture. As we approached the gate, I couldn't help but imagine all the people who had passed through it over the centuries – merchants, pilgrims, soldiers, and travelers from all walks of life. The gate offered a stunning view of the surrounding countryside, a patchwork of fields, vineyards, and olive groves stretching as far as the eye could see.


Explore Porta del Pianello in Montefollonico: a gateway to Tuscany's history offering stunning views and a taste of authentic Italian culture.
As the sun began to set, we found ourselves drawn to Enoteca La Dolce Vita - Montepulciano. The wine bar was buzzing with activity, locals and tourists alike gathered to enjoy a pre-dinner drink and soak in the convivial atmosphere. We ordered a couple of glasses of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and settled into a cozy corner, content to simply watch the world go by. The wine was, of course, superb, but it was the ambiance that truly made the experience special.


Discover the enchanting flavors of Tuscany at Enoteca La Dolce Vita, Montepulciano's premier wine bar offering local wines and authentic regional cuisine.
For dinner, we had made reservations at Cucina Tipica Toscana, a restaurant known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine. The restaurant was small and intimate, with exposed stone walls and rustic wooden tables. We started with the crostini toscani, a selection of toasted bread topped with various spreads, including chicken liver pate and white bean puree. For our main courses, I chose the peposo, a traditional beef stew cooked in red wine and black pepper, while Klaus opted for the osso buco, braised veal shanks served with risotto. Both dishes were hearty and flavorful, the perfect way to end a day of exploration.


Discover the heart of Tuscany at Cucina Tipica Toscana, where authentic flavors and warm hospitality create an unforgettable dining experience.
As we walked back to our accommodation, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared today. Montepulciano had revealed its secrets to us, one layer at a time. From the ancient cellars beneath the streets to the panoramic views from Porta del Pianello, every moment had been a gift. And tomorrow, we venture onward, leaving Montepulciano behind to explore the wonders of Siena, with visits to The Fontana Maggiore, Torre del Mangia and Piazza del Campo. I'm particularly excited for a bit of retail therapy at Le Sac| Negozio di Pelletteria| Montepulciano, where I hope to find a unique souvenir to remind me of this incredible journey.

Tomorrow promises new adventures, but for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, a perfect day in Tuscany with my beloved Klaus.

I must say, it's moments like these that make me appreciate life's simple pleasures, like a glass of exquisite wine, the taste of authentic cuisine, and the joy of sharing it all with my beloved Klaus. As we prepare for our trip to Siena tomorrow, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement for what lies ahead. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable moments.