Montalcino is a small town in Tuscany, Italy, known for making some of the best wine in the world—especially Brunello di Montalcino.
If you’re visiting for the first time, you’re in for a treat! This beautiful place is full of rolling hills, friendly people, and cozy wineries where you can taste amazing wines and learn how they’re made.
If you thinking about best wineries to visit in Montalcino? then this guide for you.
In this guide, we’ll share the top 10 wine tasting spots that are perfect for beginners. Get ready to sip, smile, and enjoy every moment!
Castello Banfi – The Grand Estate Experience
My first visit to Castello Banfi was a great experience!
This massive 7,100-acre estate isn’t just a winery—it’s practically its own village, centered around a stunning 13th-century castle that dominates the southern Montalcino landscape.
Established in 1978 by American brothers John and Harry Mariani, Banfi played a HUGE role in bringing Brunello to international fame.
Their modern approach to winemaking helped transform the region while respecting its traditions.
Honest review
The wine tasting experience here is comprehensive and professional.
They offer several options, from basic tastings (around €20-25) to premium experiences that include their top Brunellos and a tour of their innovative hybrid fermentation tanks (a technology they pioneered).
The tasting room staff are incredibly knowledgeable and speak excellent English.
Thing to do
What makes Banfi special for first-timers is the full “Tuscan experience” they offer.
You can visit their glass museum showcasing 7,000 years of glassmaking history, stay at their luxury hotel “Il Borgo,” and dine at their excellent restaurants.
Their estate restaurant, La Taverna, serves delicious Tuscan cuisine perfectly paired with their wines.
Besides their outstanding Brunello, don’t miss trying their Super Tuscans and surprisingly good sparkling wines.
Pro tip: book your visit at least a week in advance, especially during high season (May-October), as they’re extremely popular. It’s easiest to visit with a car, though many tour companies include Banfi in their itineraries.
Biondi-Santi – The Historic Birthplace of Brunello
If Brunello di Montalcino were a royal family, Biondi-Santi would be its undisputed king.
Located at the historic Il Greppo estate, this is where Brunello as we know it was born in the late 19th century. Ferruccio Biondi-Santi isolated a clone of Sangiovese and decided to ferment it separately, producing a pure, age-worthy wine.
I’ll never forget descending into their historic cellars, where bottles dating back to the 1800s still rest—including a few from the legendary 1888 vintage!
The cool, silent cellar feels more like a cathedral than a wine storage facility, and in many ways, it is the sacred heart of Brunello tradition.
My Wine Tasting Experiences
A visit to Biondi-Santi is a more formal affair than many other wineries.
Their tastings are by appointment only, with a higher price point (expect €60-100 per person), but the experience is absolutely worth it for serious wine lovers.
The guided tours are impeccably professional, offered in perfect English, and delve deeply into the family’s winemaking philosophy.
I’d recommend this visit after you’ve tried a few other Brunellos so you can better appreciate the historical context and distinctive style.
While it’s one of the pricier experiences in Montalcino, tasting these legendary wines in their birthplace is an experience that serious wine lovers shouldn’t miss.
Il Poggione – Traditional Winemaking with Stunning Views
My goodness, the VIEWS at Il Poggione!
When people imagine the perfect Tuscan landscape—rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and vineyards stretching to the horizon—they’re basically picturing what you’ll see at this magnificent estate.
Located in Sant’Angelo in Colle, a tiny village in southern Montalcino, Il Poggione is one of the original producers of Brunello, with a history dating back to the late 1800s.
My experience
What I love about this winery is how they’ve maintained their traditional approach while quietly producing some of the region’s most consistently excellent and reasonably priced Brunellos.
The estate spans about 1,500 acres, with 250 dedicated to vineyards and another 25 to olive groves.
Their guided tours take you through both modern and historic cellars, including massive underground aging rooms filled with huge Slavonian oak casks.
The contrast between ancient techniques and modern technology offers a fascinating glimpse into how traditional winemaking has evolved.
Wine review
Tasting experiences here are more accessible than at some prestigious estates, typically ranging from €15-40 depending on the wines included.
The staff are incredibly knowledgeable but refreshingly down-to-earth, making this an ideal stop for first-time visitors who might be intimidated by wine terminology.
Their Brunellos are known for their exceptional value—consistently rated among the top in the region while remaining more affordable than many competitors.
Don’t miss their Rosso di Montalcino either, which is often considered one of the best in the category.
For first-time visitors seeking the quintessential Tuscan wine experience with authentic character and without pretension, Il Poggione delivers on every level.
Casanova di Neri – Award-Winning Wines in a Boutique Setting
When Wine Spectator named Casanova di Neri Brunello “Wine of the Year” in 2006, this relatively young estate (founded in 1971) was catapulted into the spotlight.
Yet despite their international fame, a visit here feels remarkably intimate and personalized—exactly what makes it perfect for first-time visitors to Montalcino.
Atmosfear
The modern tasting room features floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the stunning vineyard views.
Unlike some of the more austere historic estates, there’s a contemporary, welcoming vibe here that puts wine newcomers immediately at ease.
I remember being slightly nervous about my limited wine knowledge during my first visit to Montalcino, but the staff here made me feel completely comfortable asking “beginner” questions.
Wine review
Tours and tastings range from basic experiences (around €25) to comprehensive tastings of their premium wines including their famous “Cerretalto” Brunello (€60+).
Every tasting is conducted with passion but without pretension—they genuinely want you to understand and enjoy their wines.
What makes Casanova di Neri particularly special for first-timers is their ability to bridge traditional and modern styles.
If you’re just beginning to explore Brunello, their wines provide an accessible entry point without sacrificing quality or authenticity.
Pro tip: their basic Rosso di Montalcino is exceptionally good and makes for a perfect, more affordable souvenir of your visit.
I can remember how the staff took extra time to explain the winemaking process when they realized it was my first visit to the region—that kind of personal attention makes all the difference when you’re exploring a new wine region.
Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona – Scenic Excellence
If fairy tales involved wine, they’d probably take place at Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona.
Not only is the estate stunningly beautiful, but it also has a story that sounds like fiction
In 1985, the palace and estate were bequeathed to Giuseppe Bianchini, who had been the estate manager, by the last descendant of the aristocratic Ciacci Piccolomini family.
Location and view
Located near Castelnuovo dell’Abate, the drive to this estate is worth the trip alone.
You’ll pass the magnificent Abbey of Sant’Antimo, with views of Monte Amiata in the distance.
The estate itself sits in the Orcia Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and boasts some of the most photographed views in all of Tuscany.
The winery focuses on organic practices, working in harmony with the natural environment.
Their vineyard tour is particularly impressive, taking you through different soil types and elevations that create their distinctive wines.
The ancient cellars built into the hillside maintain perfect natural temperature and humidity for aging Brunello.
Wine and price
Tasting options range from approximately €15 for a basic tasting to €45 for premium experiences including older vintages.
What I particularly love about Ciacci is their unhurried approach—tastings never feel rushed, and the passionate staff encourage questions and discussions.
Their Brunellos strike a beautiful balance between tradition and accessibility, with their “Pianrosso” vineyard producing particularly outstanding wines.
First-time visitors will appreciate how their wines demonstrate the elegant side of Brunello, with beautiful red fruit flavors and that classic Sangiovese structure.
Altesino – Innovation and Tradition
The estate is located about 5 km northeast of Montalcino town, making it easily accessible.
This is one of the best wineries in montalcino. What many visitors don’t realize is that Altesino revolutionized Brunello production in the 1970s.
Atmosfear
The guided tours here are exceptionally educational without being overwhelming.
Their guides have a knack for explaining complex winemaking concepts in simple terms, making this an ideal visit for newcomers to the world of fine wine.
The historic cellars provide a perfect backdrop for understanding how tradition and innovation coexist in Montalcino.
What I remember most vividly is how their wine educator connected the dots between the soil, climate, aging process, and what I was tasting in the glass—suddenly Brunello made sense in a way it hadn’t before.
That kind of educational experience is invaluable for first-time visitors.
My true review
Tasting experiences range from approximately €20-50 depending on the selection of wines.
Their portfolio includes excellent examples at every level, from their approachable Rosso di Altesino to their flagship Montosoli Brunello.
What makes this particularly good for first-timers is the clear progression between their wines, helping you understand the hierarchy of Montalcino wines.
Poggio Antico – High-Altitude Tasting with Dining
At nearly 1,500 feet above sea level, Poggio Antico boasts some of the highest vineyards in Montalcino, and believe me, you can taste the difference that elevation makes!
Environment of the wineries
The estate itself is strikingly modern compared to some of Montalcino’s ancient properties.
The clean architectural lines of the winery offer a fascinating contrast to the wild, natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Floor-to-ceiling windows in the tasting room provide panoramic views that showcase just how far above the valleys you really are.
What makes Poggio Antico particularly special for first-time visitors is their on-site restaurant, which is among the best in the region.
Testing experience
Their tour and tasting options are well-structured, ranging from quick tastings (€15-20) to comprehensive tours with premium wine flights (€40-50).
The addition of lunch will obviously increase the cost, but it’s absolutely worth the splurge for the full experience.
Poggio Antico produces several distinct Brunellos, including a more traditional style aged in large oak casks and a more modern interpretation that incorporates some French barriques in the aging process.
One practical note: due to the elevation, it can be noticeably cooler here than in the town of Montalcino, so bring an extra layer even in summer! I learned this the hard way during my first visit when an unexpected breeze had me shivering on the terrace despite the sunny day.
Fattoria dei Barbi – Historical Legacy and Innovation
Located about 5 km from Montalcino, the estate is easily accessible by car.
Their tasting room staff speak excellent English and are particularly good at explaining the historical context that makes Brunello special.
Reservations are recommended, especially for groups, but they can sometimes accommodate walk-ins during slower periods.
And in many ways, I was!
Speciality of Fattoria dei Barbi
What makes Barbi unique is their actual wine museum—the first of its kind in Italy—which documents the history of Brunello and winemaking in the region.
For history buffs or anyone wanting to understand the cultural context of Brunello, this adds a fascinating dimension to the standard winery visit.
Their cellar tour is one of the most comprehensive in Montalcino, taking you through both historic and modern facilities.
Price
Tasting options range from basic experiences (around €15-20) to premium tastings of older vintages and single-vineyard wines (€40+).
What I particularly appreciate about Barbi is that they sometimes offer tastings of older vintages that show how beautifully Brunello can age—something many first-time visitors might otherwise never experience.
The estate produces a wide range of wines beyond their excellent Brunellos, including innovative IGT wines that showcase different aspects of the territory.
Their Brusco dei Barbi, a unique everyday drinking wine, makes for a great affordable souvenir.
I still remember my surprise at discovering their small production of “Vin Santo,” the traditional Tuscan dessert wine—it wasn’t what I expected to find at a Brunello producer, but these little discoveries are what make wine exploration so rewarding!
Tenuta Fanti – The Welcoming Family Experience
Sometimes the most memorable wine experiences come from smaller, family-run estates where you feel less like a tourist and more like a welcome guest.
Located just a few kilometers south of Montalcino town, Tenuta Fanti is easily accessible by car.
Reservations are recommended but they’re often able to accommodate last-minute visitors, especially during weekdays or slower seasons.
Personal experience
Walking into their modern tasting room, I was immediately struck by the warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
Unlike some more formal estates, here you might be greeted by family members themselves.
During my visit, Elisa Fanti personally conducted our tasting, sharing stories about growing up among the vines and the family’s winemaking philosophy.
Wineries atmostiar
The estate spans about 300 acres, with 50 dedicated to vineyards.
Their tour takes you through both vineyard and cellar, explaining their careful balance between traditional methods and modern technology.
Their aging cellar, with its neat rows of both large oak casks and smaller French barriques, showcases their flexible approach to winemaking.
Wine price range
Tasting options are reasonably priced (€15-30) and generous in both pour size and information.
What makes Fanti particularly special for first-time visitors is the relaxed, no-pressure environment where questions are encouraged and wine terminology is explained in approachable language.
Practical Tips for Booking Wine Tastings in Montalcino
After multiple trips to Montalcino (and yes, a few scheduling mishaps!), I’ve learned some practical lessons about making the most of your wine tasting experience in this region. Here are my top tips:
What we need to know before booking?
First and foremost, advance booking is absolutely essential, especially from April through October.
For prestigious estates like Biondi-Santi or popular destinations like Banfi, book at least a month ahead.
For smaller wineries, 1-2 weeks’ notice is usually sufficient, though more is always better.
Many wineries now offer online booking systems, but email communication is still common and generally works well.
Transportation option for Best Wineries to Visit in Montalcino
Transportation requires careful planning in Montalcino.
If you’re driving, limit yourself to 2-3 wineries per day with proper meals in between, and have a designated driver or spit during tastings (Italian drinking and driving laws are very strict).
Alternatively, consider hiring a driver (€250-400/day), joining a small group tour (€150-200/person), or using local taxi services (book in advance).
The local bus service is very limited and not practical for winery visits.
Best time to visit Montalcino wineries
A perfect day might include visiting Montalcino town in the morning, then two wineries with lunch in between. Most winery visits last 1-1.5 hours, so don’t overpack your schedule!
The best times to visit are late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) for pleasant weather and beautiful vineyard views.
Summer is crowded and hot, while winter sees some wineries operating on limited schedules, though the quieter atmosphere can be appealing.
Expected cost
Regarding costs, expect to pay €15-30 for standard tastings and €40-100 for premium experiences.
Many wineries will waive the tasting fee if you purchase wine.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash is always a good idea for smaller establishments.
For shipping wine home, most wineries can arrange this, though costs can be significant (often €15-20 per bottle to the US, for example).
Some visitors prefer to purchase from wine shops in town that consolidate shipping from multiple producers.
Etiquette and Behavior
Regarding etiquette, it’s appreciated if you arrive on time, dress smart-casual (no formal dress code but avoid beach attire), and notify wineries if you need to cancel.
It’s perfectly acceptable to spit wine during tastings—professionals always do this!
Also, don’t wear strong perfumes or colognes as they interfere with wine aromas.