Family Adventure in Montepulciano: Wine, History, and Culture

Savoring the Soul of Montepulciano

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Montepulciano, a town that seems to breathe history and exhale the rich aromas of Vino Nobile. With Pieter and Alessia by my side, I set out to explore the cultural and culinary treasures that this Tuscan gem has to offer. It was a day filled with art, history, and, of course, exquisite wine.

Our first stop was at Contucci, a winery with a lineage stretching back to the 11th century. Imagine, the Contucci family has been cultivating vines here since before the Renaissance. As one of the founding families of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, they've played a significant role in elevating the region's wines to global acclaim. The family's Palazzo, where the winery is located, stands proudly on Piazza Grande, a testament to their enduring legacy. We wandered through the ancient cellars, built into the very rock beneath the town, and felt transported back in time. Alessia was particularly fascinated by the old walls and the stories they seemed to whisper.


Experience the rich heritage and exquisite wines at Contucci Winery, a historical gem in the heart of Montepulciano, Tuscany.

The cellars themselves were a sight to behold, a blend of historical significance and modern functionality. Here, Contucci wines age gracefully in French and Slavonian oak barrels. It was fascinating to learn that the classic Vino Nobile di Montepulciano matures for 24 months, the Riserva for at least 36 months, and the Vin Santo for up to a decade. The dedication to tradition and quality was palpable in every corner of the cellar. Pieter, ever the curious one, peppered our guide with questions about the winemaking process, while I tried to capture the essence of the place with my camera.

Wine is bottled poetry.

Next on our itinerary was the Museo Civico Pinacoteca Crociani, housed in the medieval Palazzo Neri Orselli. This museum is a treasure trove of art, showcasing a collection that spans from the 14th to the 19th centuries. The collection originated with a donation to the commune in 1859 of the collection of Francesco Crociani. The museum was founded in 1954. As we wandered through the rooms, I was struck by the diversity and richness of the artworks. There was a 13th-century St Francis of Assisi by Margaritone d'Arezzo, a Madonna and Child with two Angels attributed to a 14th-century follower of Duccio da Buoninsegna, and a Nativity by Benvenuto di Giovanni. Each piece told a story, offering a glimpse into the artistic and cultural landscape of its time.


Discover the artistic legacy of Tuscany at Museo Civico Pinacoteca Crociani, a hidden gem in Montepulciano showcasing Renaissance art and history.

One of the highlights was the Enthroned Madonna and Child by Luca Signorelli, which was originally from the church of Santa Lucia. It was a powerful and moving piece that seemed to capture the essence of faith and devotion. Alessia, surprisingly, was quite engaged, pointing out details and asking questions about the people in the paintings. It was heartwarming to see her connect with art in such a meaningful way.

After immersing ourselves in art and history, it was time for another wine adventure at Azienda Agricola Canneto. This winery, located on the western slopes of Montepulciano, boasts a long winemaking tradition. The estate can be visited entirely on foot, by bike or with the car, the roads are accessible both in winter and summer. Daniela, who is in charge of reception, showed us around the cellar and offered us a guided tasting of their wines in the new dedicated room with its lovely terrace. The vineyards, facing mainly south, are situated at 350 and 400 m above sea level, on marl soil mixed with gravel.


Experience the artistry of Tuscan winemaking at Azienda Agricola Canneto, where every sip tells a story amidst stunning vineyards.

Their tasting room has an innovative system which uses nitrogen to prevent oxidation of the wine after it has been uncorked. Nitrogen – an odourless and flavourless inert gas – fills the empty part of the bottle, thus eliminating the process of deterioration, maintaining intact the characteristics of the wine and guaranteeing the perfect temperature. We tasted several of their wines, each with its own unique character and flavor profile. The Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG was particularly memorable, with its rich, complex aromas and smooth, velvety texture.

For lunch, we decided on La Bottega del Nobile, a restaurant that came highly recommended. It is located at the very entrance of Montepulciano's old town. The staff was very amicable coupled with the chef's fine touch. As we stepped inside, we were immediately charmed by the cozy and inviting atmosphere. The menu featured a refined selection of food and wine served with finesse. We started with some local Pecorino cheese, followed by handmade pasta with truffle sauce. The flavors were exquisite, a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chef. Alessia, who can be a bit picky, devoured her pasta, declaring it the best she'd ever had.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine and exquisite local wines at La Bottega del Nobile in picturesque Montepulciano.

In the afternoon, we explored the charming streets of Montepulciano, soaking in the atmosphere and taking in the stunning views. We stopped by Porta di Bacco | Ristorante Montepulciano | Osteria for a quick refreshment. The staff were very jovial. From the point of view of the visitors, the prices are popular. The restaurant offers traditional Tuscan cuisine in a casual, yet elegant setting.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Porta di Bacco in Montepulciano—where every meal is paired with exquisite local wines.

As evening approached, we made our way to Fattoria San Martino for dinner. This restaurant, located a short distance from Montepulciano, offers a tranquil and picturesque setting. The views to both the town and the valley are beautiful. We indulged in a vegetarian tasting menu, which was an absolute delight. The dishes were creative, flavorful, and beautifully presented, showcasing the best of Tuscan cuisine. The owners were super friendly. Alessia loved the open space, running around and playing while we savored our meal.


Discover Fattoria San Martino: A charming bed & breakfast offering exquisite vegan cuisine amidst the stunning landscapes of Montepulciano, Tuscany.

To cap off the day, we decided to visit Opificio 16 - Enoteca & Wine Bar, a cozy spot known for its excellent selection of wines and inviting atmosphere. With its inviting patio adorned with potted plants and handwritten menus, this cozy spot is perfect for enjoying an aperitivo while soaking up the local atmosphere. As evening falls, guests can unwind in a candlelit cellar where classical music sets a serene backdrop to savor exquisite wines. This was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on our day of exploration. Pieter and I enjoyed a glass of Vino Nobile, while Alessia sipped on some sparkling apple juice. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, and we felt like we were truly part of the local scene.


Discover the charm of Tuscan wines and authentic flavors at Opificio 16, the premier Enoteca & Wine Bar in Montepulciano.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we shared today. Montepulciano has a way of capturing your heart and soul, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the countryside, visiting the iconic **Cipressi di Monticchiello**, the **Riserva naturale Lucciola Bella**, and the **Sentiero Toscano**. I'm also looking forward to browsing the local crafts at **Il Pozzo Dei Desideri Montepulciano**. But for now, I'll savor the memories of today, the art, the history, and the exquisite wine that made it so special.

Montepulciano, with its blend of history, art, and culinary delights, is a destination that truly nourishes the soul. It's a place where you can slow down, appreciate the simple things in life, and create memories that will last a lifetime. And, of course, it's a place where you can indulge in some of the best wine in the world. I encourage anyone planning a trip to Italy to add Montepulciano to their list. You won't be disappointed.

This trip is not just a vacation; it's a journey into the heart of Italy, a chance to connect with its history, culture, and people. And as we continue our adventure, I'm excited to share more of our experiences with you. Until then, ciao!