Family Adventure in Montepulciano: Wine, History, and Culture

Echoes of History and Vineyards: A Day in Montepulciano

Today was a day where the past and present intertwined beautifully, offering glimpses into the soul of Montepulciano. From exploring sacred spaces to delving into the depths of ancient wine cellars and soaking in panoramic vistas, it was a sensory feast that left me in awe of this Tuscan gem. Join me as I recount the day's adventures, filled with history, culture, and the simple joys of family travel.

Our day began with a visit to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio. The drive there was stunning, with the rolling Tuscan hills unfolding before us like a painting. As we approached the sanctuary, its travertine facade glowed warmly in the morning sun. Pieter was immediately captivated by the architecture, while Alessia, ever curious, peppered me with questions about the building's history.

The Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio is a Renaissance masterpiece, a testament to architectural brilliance and religious devotion. Built between 1518 and 1548, the church stands just outside the village of Montepulciano. Designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder, it was inspired by the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Carceri in Prato. The story goes that the church was created because of a miracle in 1518, when two girls saw the eyes of the Madonna on a ruined wall open and close. A farmer also witnessed his oxen kneeling before the image. Construction began in 1518 and lasted until 1580. The church is built in a Greek cross plan, with a central dome supported by a drum. The exterior is made of travertine slabs, giving it a warm tone. Inside, there's a fresco of the Madonna Enthroned with Child, dating back to the 14th century. The church is dedicated to the Madonna of San Biagio and was built on the site of an early Christian church dedicated to Santa Maria.

Inside, the sanctuary exuded a sense of tranquility. The light filtering through the windows illuminated the simple yet elegant interior. I took a moment to reflect on the history held within those walls, the countless prayers and hopes that had echoed through the centuries. Alessia, surprisingly, was also quiet, seemingly absorbing the serene atmosphere. Pieter, meanwhile, was busy capturing the architectural details with his camera, his eye for detail always impressive. He was particularly fascinated by the story of how Pope Leo X supported the construction, as he had studied under Angelo Poliziano, a native of Montepulciano.


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

To truly experience a place, you must immerse yourself in its history, culture, and flavors.

Leaving the sanctuary, we headed to our next destination: De' Ricci Cantine Storiche. I had read so much about this place, and I was eager to experience it firsthand. As we walked through the streets of Montepulciano, the town's medieval charm was palpable. The narrow cobblestone streets, the ancient buildings, and the vibrant atmosphere transported us back in time.

De' Ricci Cantine Storiche is more than just a winery; it's a journey into the heart of Montepulciano's winemaking heritage. This historic cellar, located in the heart of Montepulciano, is an architectural marvel, often referred to as The Cathedral. The De' Ricci family has been making wine for generations, and their cellars are a testament to their dedication and passion. The underground cellars are impressive, with large oak barrels and brick arches creating a unique atmosphere. The walls are lined with bottles of wine, each with its own story to tell. We took a guided tour of the cellars, learning about the winemaking process from grape to bottle. The guide was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing insights into the terroir, the grape varieties, and the aging techniques that make Vino Nobile di Montepulciano so special. We learned that the construction of the cellar began in 1518 and was completed in 1540. The same plan was used for St. Peter's Basilica. The cellars are located underground, which helps to maintain a constant temperature and humidity, perfect for aging wine.


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

The highlight of our visit was, of course, the wine tasting. We sampled a selection of their finest wines, each one a reflection of the region's unique terroir. The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano was particularly memorable, its rich, complex flavors lingering on the palate. Alessia, though too young to partake, was fascinated by the process, carefully observing as Pieter and I swirled, sniffed, and sipped. The tour lasted about 75 minutes, and it was worth every minute. It costs €20 / 30 a person.

After the wine tasting, we decided to take a leisurely stroll to Punto Panoramico, a viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the Tuscan landscape. The walk itself was a treat, with each turn revealing a new vista of rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. As we reached the viewpoint, the panoramic view unfolded before us, painting a picture of unparalleled beauty. The Val d'Orcia stretched out in all its glory, the golden light of the afternoon sun casting a magical glow over the landscape. The Punto Panoramico offers sweeping vistas of the historic hill town, known for its medieval architecture. You can see rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. It's a great spot for photography, and the best times to visit are during sunrise or sunset. You can bring a picnic or relax on a bench while enjoying the views. It is easily accessible.


Discover the stunning vistas of Montepulciano at Punto Panoramico, an unforgettable viewpoint in the heart of Tuscany.

I set up my camera, eager to capture the scene. Pieter and Alessia explored the area, their laughter echoing in the tranquil air. We found a perfect spot and took some family photos. I managed to capture some stunning shots of the landscape. For me, Punto Panoramico was more than just a beautiful view; it was a moment of connection, a reminder of the beauty that surrounds us and the importance of cherishing these shared experiences.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to town, our stomachs rumbling. Dinner was at Trattoria di Cagnano. It was a delightful experience. The restaurant is known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were friendly and attentive. The cuisine is Italian, with pizza, ravioli, and monkfish. For dessert, there is tiramisu, cheesecake, and panna cotta. There is also a wine list. The atmosphere is spectacular, and the prices are adequate. The restaurant is also known for its gluten-free options.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria di Cagnano in Montepulciano, where every dish tells a story of Tuscan heritage.

We started with some local appetizers, followed by handmade pasta dishes that were simply divine. Alessia, a notoriously picky eater, surprised us by devouring her entire plate of ravioli. Pieter and I savored every bite, accompanied by a bottle of local wine. As we ate, we reminisced about the day's adventures, our hearts full of gratitude for the experiences we had shared. The service was prompt, and the prices were reasonable.

Before heading back to our vacation rental, we stopped by Bottega del Rame, a charming shop specializing in handcrafted copperware. I had long admired the artistry and craftsmanship of Italian artisans, and I was eager to see their creations up close. The shop was a treasure trove of copper pots, pans, and utensils, each one a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans. Bottega del Rame is known for its copper and brass for the kitchen and home. It is located in Montepulciano. The copperware is made by hand. The owner, Cesare Mazzetti, has been making copper cookware since 1982. His grandfather and father were also coppersmiths. The shop is one of the oldest arts. You can see local artisans working with gold, copper, iron, wood, mosaic, tiles, and leather.


Explore Bottega del Rame in Montepulciano for unique antiques and handcrafted treasures that embody Italian artistry and charm.

I purchased a small copper saucepan, a memento of our time in Montepulciano. As I held it in my hands, I could feel the weight of history, the legacy of generations of artisans who had poured their heart and soul into their craft. It was a reminder that true beauty lies not just in aesthetics but in the stories and traditions that objects carry.

As we drove back to our rental, Alessia fell asleep in the back seat, her face peaceful and content. Pieter and I exchanged a knowing glance, our hearts full of love and gratitude. Today had been a day of Tuscan wonders, a reminder of the beauty, history, and culture that awaits those who are willing to explore. I was already looking forward to tomorrow, when we planned to visit Contucci, Museo Civico Pinacoteca Crociani, and Azienda Agricola Canneto. I had heard wonderful things about Contucci, a historic winery known for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and I was eager to learn more about their winemaking process. The Museo Civico Pinacoteca Crociani, housed in a beautiful Renaissance palace, promised a glimpse into the art and history of Montepulciano. Azienda Agricola Canneto, a family-run farm, offered the opportunity to experience the authentic flavors of the Tuscan countryside. And of course, we'd be stopping by Opificio 16 - Enoteca & Wine Bar for a relaxing evening.

As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, grateful for the memories we were creating and the bonds we were strengthening. Montepulciano, with its timeless charm and captivating beauty, had woven its spell on us, and I knew that this was just the beginning of our Tuscan adventure.

I've heard that there are many festivals in Montepulciano, including the Bravio delle Botti, a wine barrel race held in August, and Calici di Stelle, a mid-summer wine tasting event. I'm hoping we can experience one of these events during our stay. There's also the Saracen Joust of San Biagio in June, which sounds fascinating. I am looking forward to sharing more of our journey with you all!