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Italy is known throughout the world for its special cuisine. It is also the birthplace of many award-winning chefs who have made their passion for cooking an art in its own right. The food and wine pairing has a fundamental place in tasting, which you will see as you explore exceptional wineries and vineyards when you visit Italy.
This is especially true in Tuscany, which has more than twenty wines with the Controlled Designation of Origin (Denominazione di Origine Controllata), produced throughout the region. Wine has been deeply rooted in Italian culture since ancient times. Whether you are a fervent fan of oenology or an occasional lover of fine wines, you will find something to suit your taste in this luxury holiday destination as you discover the best vineyards in Tuscany.
Where to go in Tuscany?
- Antinori nel Chianti Classico: Family History in Chianti
- Tenuta CastelGiocondo: Tuscan Heritage
- Podere La Marronaia: Committing to Nature
- Icario: Between Elegance and Modernity
The historic Antinori nel Chianti Classico
The Antinori family has been in the wine business for 26 generations, over 600 years. They are one of the founding members of the “Primum Familiæ Vini” which brings together, as its name suggests, the first families whose history is linked to the cultivation of grapes and the production of wine. If the work of this family contributes to the traditional Italian heritage, it also embodies a march towards modernity, as shown by a visit to the Antinori nel Chianti Classico winery, not far from the city of Florence. In the heart of the rolling hills of Chianti, a huge glass and metal structure by Marco Casamonti blends into the vegetation where local varieties such as Sangiovese, Mammolo and Canaiolo flourish alongside international grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon.
Open since 2013, this temple of wine has cellars designed for optimal winemaking, the Rinuccio 1180 restaurant located on the roof, and a boutique selling the family's Italian and international wines. You will be able to taste their vintages during a tailor-made private visit: wines with notes of elegance and sophistication whose aromas are designed by centuries-old knowledge. Be sure to taste the Villa Antinori Rosso, the Pèppoli or the Badia a Passignano all DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita)
the prestigious CastelGiocondo estate
During your holiday in Tuscany, you will see that the geography of the region is very diverse. This is what allows it to offer such a wide variety wines with unique characteristics. They are distinguished by the altitude in which they grow as well as the weather conditions. Another emblematic figure of the Tuscan wine scene, the Frescobaldi family dates back 700 years. Combining tradition and modernity, the production methods are geared towards the protection of the environment, certified “AgriQualità”.
The CastelGiocondo estate is located 300 metres above sea level to the south-west of Montalcino. As early as 1800, the fortress was one of the first estates to produce Brunello di Montalcino. Nowadays, you can discover wines with a strong personality such as the fruity red Lamaione from a Merlot grape variety, or the Campo ai Sassi di Montalcino with a light tannic body. They are ready to be experienced by the glass or during a meal!
the intimate Podere La Marronaia
The Podere La Marronaia estate is more intimate than the others. With the greatest respect for nature, the crops are organic and biodynamic. All the elements that form the ecosystem of the Vernaccia vineyard work together, resulting in quality wines. Ozario, a powerful red aged in oak barrels, Rosa della Marronaia, a fruity 100% Sangiovese rosé, Mille Colori, a flowery white Super Tuscan, and many others to taste. Here, it is not only the wine that can be tasted, but also the olive oil and balsamic vinegar. For the full experience, sit down to eat, or join a cooking class!
The Italian wine-growing landscape is changing as traditional wines are becoming more innovative. Modern wines such as “Super Tuscans”, are obtained by mixing Italian and international grape varieties. Taste these new and surprising notes in the heart of the countryside, with a breathtaking view of San Gimignano, a medieval village that can't be missed during your stay in Tuscany.
the modern Icario
It's in the province of Siena that we find traces of the oldest wine in Italy, dating back to the eighth century. This heritage is steeped in the culture of Montepulciano, nicknamed the “Pearl of the Renaissance”. The wines made from Montepulciano grape varieties are light thanks to the limestone soil where the vines grow.
In the hills of Tuscany is Icario, a large building with clean lines, built with ocher stones from the region and surrounded by cypress trees. The tasting room is spectacular, with a glass floor revealing the cellar and its oak barrels below. The Vino Nobile de Montepulciano, whose 2016 and 2017 cuvées have received numerous awards and are DOCG certified is a must-see.
Now you know where to go in Italy to discover the best vineyards during your Tuscany holiday. Explore our collection of luxury villa rentals in Tuscany for an unforgettable luxury holiday. To complete this tasty experience, contact your Tailor to arrange a gourmet dinner in the comfort of your villa!
