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De' Ricci Cantine Storiche: A Journey Through Wine History

Explore Montepulciano's wine history at De' Ricci Cantine Storiche, an underground cathedral where Vino Nobile matures in ancient cellars.

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Descend into the depths of Montepulciano's wine heritage at De' Ricci Cantine Storiche, an underground Renaissance cathedral where Vino Nobile di Montepulciano matures in ancient cellars. Explore Etruscan-era caves and learn about the Ricci family's legacy, intertwined with the town's history since the 12th century.

A brief summary to De' Ricci Cantine Storiche in Montepulciano

  • Monday 10:30 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10:30 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10:30 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10:30 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10:30 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the cellar tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and stairs.
  • Book your tour and tasting in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Allow ample time for your visit to fully appreciate the history and architecture of the cellars.
  • Consider visiting the Palazzo Comunale tower in Piazza Grande for panoramic views of Montepulciano and the surrounding countryside.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    De' Ricci Cantine Storiche is located in the heart of Montepulciano, easily accessible on foot from Piazza Grande. From the Piazza Grande, walk down Via Ricci. The entrance to the cantine will be on your left at number 13. Note that Montepulciano is a hilltop town with steep inclines. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus at the Autostazione, take the urban mini bus service that loops around the town. Get off near Piazza Grande and walk down Via Ricci to number 13. A single bus ticket costs €1-€2.

  • Parking

    If arriving by car, park in one of the designated parking lots outside the city walls. Parking lots P1 and P5 are closest to the main entrance, Porta al Prato. From there, walk uphill along the main street (Il Corso) to Via Ricci. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €2 per hour. Free parking is available at Piazza Pietro Nenni, a slightly longer walk from the center.

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Discover more about De' Ricci Cantine Storiche in Montepulciano

De' Ricci Cantine Storiche offers a unique glimpse into the rich wine-making traditions of Montepulciano. Located beneath Palazzo Ricci, one of the town's most beautiful Renaissance buildings, the cellars are a stunning example of architectural ingenuity, reminiscent of a Roman-Gothic cathedral. The history of the De' Ricci family is deeply rooted in Montepulciano, dating back to 1150 when a local man nicknamed 'Riccio' (hedgehog) gained fame for his weather predictions. In 1534, Cardinal Giovanni Ricci commissioned the construction of the Palazzo and cellars, a project that took nearly 30 years to complete. The cellars themselves were built upon even older medieval structures, adhering to ancient local laws. Visitors can explore the vast underground chambers, marvel at the cross-vaulted arches, and witness the careful aging process of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano in large Slavonian oak barrels. The tuffaceous soil and ventilation maintain a constant temperature and humidity, ideal for wine preservation. The cellars also incorporate caves hand-dug in Etruscan times. Guided tours and tastings are available, offering a chance to savor the fruits of this historic estate, often paired with local snacks. In 1959, the cellars were renamed 'Cantina Redi', but have since reverted to De' Ricci Cantine Storiche to honor the family's contribution to Montepulciano's wine legacy. Today, the Trabalzini family owns the estate, producing wine under their own label since 2012.

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