Tuscany is one of the world’s most renowned wine regions. With big names like Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Super Tuscans, the region offers a wide variety of wine flavours.
This guide explores the best vineyards in Tuscany. We will share how to book a tour and why this region is a must-visit for wine lovers travelling to Italy.
Why Tuscany is famous for its vineyards
Tuscany’s winemaking tradition dates back more than 2,500 years, with the ancient Etruscans cultivating vines long before the Romans. Over the centuries, wine lovers recognised Tuscan wines for their high quality and complex flavours. Today, the region has over 57,000 hectares of vineyards, with many estates producing the best of Tuscan wines.
Tuscany’s unique climate and geography create ideal conditions for wine production. The nearby Tyrrhenian Sea helps to regulate temperatures, while the region’s diverse soils (clay, sandstone, and limestone) provide nutrients for grape cultivation. Winemakers grow many grape varieties, but they consider Sangiovese the “best”.
Tuscany vineyards produce over 7.3 ounces of wine annually and account for almost 60% of the total global market production. Tuscan wines are exported all over the world, including the US, Canada, Germany, and the UK.
The best vineyards in Tuscany for wine lovers
There are plenty of beautiful vineyards to choose from throughout the region of Tuscany. Here are some of our top Tuscany vineyard picks to visit.
Antinori nel Chianti Classico (San Casciano in Val di Pesa)
With over 600 years of winemaking history, the Antinori family has established itself as one of Italy’s most esteemed wine producers. They produce some of the best wines and when visiting, you must try the renowned selections like Tignanello, Pèppoli, and Chianti Classico Riserva.
Apart from the tasty wines, the vineyard itself is a must-see. The estate implements modern architecture, an iconic spiral staircase, a rooftop vineyard and even a private art collection. On a guided tour, you will learn about the wine-making process, and the estate’s history and taste their signature wines. Tours last about 1.5 hours and cost €45 per person. Located only 30 minutes from Florence, it’s the perfect day trip to expereince Tuscany’s wine culture. Reserve a tour on their official site.
Tenuta San Guido (Bolgheri)
Tenuta San Guido is widely known as the birthplace of Sassicaia, one of the most celebrated Super Tuscan wines. It’s rated 98+ points by Wine Spectator, making this estate a must-visit for wine lovers. Unfortunately, they do not provide guided tours however you can visit the grounds and explore the vineyard and farm on the impressive property.
Biondi Santi (Montalcino)
Biondi Santi, the birthplace of Brunello di Montalcino, has a prestigious place in Italy’s wine history. This estate is known for producing Brunello di Montalcino Riserva, a highly regarded wine aged for up to 10 years. A visit to this Tuscan vineyard will share its history of the Sangiovese Grosso grape, and enjoy tastings of premium aged wines. Tours are available by appointment only, with details provided upon request.
Fattoria del Teso (Near Lucca)
Fattoria del Teso is a traditional vineyard near Lucca. Specializing in Lucchese red wines, Vermentino, and Vin Santo dessert wine, the estate offers small-group tastings, vineyard walks, and barrel-aged wine sampling. Pets are even welcome! Tours are available by reservation through their website.
Fattoria di Montechiari (Capannori, near Lucca)
For more wine tasting in Lucca, Fattoria di Montechiari, is an organic vineyard near Old Town Lucca. It is known for producing high-quality, limited-edition wines. You can sample Montechiari Rosso, and Montechiari Metodo Classico here. The estate offers wine pairing experiences, guided vineyard walks, and sunset tastings. Tours are available by appointment, with prices varying depending on the experience. Located just 15 minutes from Lucca, this Tuscan vineyard provides a perfect setting to explore Tuscany’s rich winemaking heritage.
How to book a vineyard tour in Tuscany
Booking a vineyard tour in Tuscany is usually a straightforward process if you choose to reserve directly with the estate itself. Some wineries offer self-guided tours, providing more flexibility for you to stroll through the vineyards while others have a stricter protocol with a guided tour. Some Tuscan estates will even provide transportation and shuttle services from major cities to their vineyard, however, this must be reserved in advance.
Another option is to contact a wine and food tour service that will customise a Tuscany wine tour for you. This usually includes a private guide and transportation to and from your accommodation. Prices can range from €30 to over €300, depending on the packages you choose.
The best time to visit Tuscany vineyards
The best time to visit Tuscany for wine tasting depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. The harvest season (September to October) is the most exciting time, as vineyards are buzzing with activity. Many Tuscany vineyards offer special tours and grape-harvesting experiences at this time. Spring (April to June) is another great moment to plan a visit. With mild weather, the vineyards are greener and have fewer crowds. Summer (July to August) has much hotter temperatures and larger crowds, but it’s a great time to enjoy evening wine tastings and vineyard dinners. For a quieter, more intimate experience, visiting in the winter months (November to March) allows winemakers more time for in-depth conversations as there are fewer crowds.
Plan a wine-tasting trip to the best vineyards in Tuscany
Tuscany’s world-renowned wines and deep-rooted history make it a dream destination for wine lovers. Whether you’re exploring Chianti, Bolgheri’s prestigious estates, or the charming vineyards near Lucca, each vineyard and estate provides an unforgettable experience. Remember, plan and book your vineyard tours early, especially during peak seasons from May to October.
For a perfect stay in Tuscany, Lucca Apartments and Villas offer charming accommodations near some of the region’s best wineries. From our countryside villas surrounded by vineyards to cosy apartments in the heart of Lucca’s Old Town, we have the perfect place for your wine-tasting getaway.
