The rolling hills and vineyards of the Val d’Orcia region offer a picturesque escape from the bustling city of Florence. On this full-day wine tasting tour, you’ll have the chance to explore the historic town of Montepulciano, renowned for its Nobile di Montepulciano wines. After a guided winery visit and tasting, you’ll savor a farm-to-table lunch with panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside. The journey continues to the charming town of Pienza, known as the ‘ideal city of the Renaissance.’ With a knowledgeable sommelier guide by your side, you’re in for an immersive experience that showcases the area’s winemaking traditions, landscapes, and cultural heritage. There’s no better way to discover the enchanting Val d’Orcia.
Key Points
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Val d’Orcia, a picturesque Tuscan region featured in films like ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ and ‘Gladiator’.
- Discover the historic town of Montepulciano, known for its renowned Nobile di Montepulciano wines, and enjoy a guided tour of private wine cellars.
- Indulge in a farm-to-table lunch with panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside, showcasing the region’s culinary traditions and commitment to sustainability.
- Visit the charming town of Pienza, known as the ‘ideal city of the Renaissance’, and take in its stunning architecture and panoramic vistas.
- Benefit from private transportation and a certified sommelier guide to provide an immersive and personalized wine tasting experience.
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Overview of the Tour
From Florence: Val D’orcia Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour
Overview of the Tour
This full-day wine tasting tour allows visitors to escape Florence and experience the heart of Tuscany in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Val d’Orcia.
Known for its appearances in movies like ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ and ‘Gladiator’, the region offers a chance to take in the rich winemaking traditions and picturesque landscapes of the Tuscan countryside.
The itinerary includes visits to Montepulciano, two family-run wineries with guided tours and tastings, a lunch at an organic farm with panoramic views, and a stop in the charming town of Pienza.
With private transportation and a certified sommelier guide, this tour provides an authentic Tuscan wine experience.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a pickup from Florence, whisking guests away to the picturesque town of Montepulciano for an hour-long exploration.
Travelers then venture to two acclaimed family-run wineries, enjoying guided tours and tastings of the region’s renowned DOC Montepulciano wines, including the famous Nobile di Montepulciano.
Lunch at an organic farm, featuring authentic Italian dishes and panoramic vistas, provides a delightful respite before visiting the charming town of Pienza, completing the journey back to Florence.
The tour’s highlights include:
- Exploring the historic town of Montepulciano
- Tasting the renowned Nobile di Montepulciano wines
- Indulging in a farm-to-table lunch with stunning views
- Discovering the picturesque town of Pienza
Montepulciano Visit
The tour begins with a visit to the historic town of Montepulciano, where guests can explore its picturesque streets and admire the stunning Renaissance architecture for about an hour. Montepulciano is known for its impressive Piazza Grande, home to the 14th-century Palazzo Comunale and the elegant Duomo. Visitors can also wander through the town’s charming alleyways, lined with medieval stone buildings and boutiques selling local delicacies.
| Montepulciano Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Piazza Grande | 14th-century Palazzo Comunale |
| Duomo | Charming Alleyways |
| Medieval Stone Buildings | Local Boutiques |
This idyllic town provides a perfect introduction to the Val d’Orcia region and its renowned wine culture.
Winery Tour and Tasting
After exploring the charming town of Montepulciano, the tour moves on to visit two family-run wineries.
At the wineries, guests can enjoy guided tours and tastings of the renowned DOC Montepulciano wines, including the famous Nobile di Montepulciano.
The knowledgeable sommelier guide leads visitors through the private wine cellars, sharing insights into the winemaking process and the unique terroir of the Val d’Orcia region.
Guests have the chance to sample the exquisite extra virgin olive oil produced on-site as well.
The winery visits provide an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship and passion that goes into these acclaimed Tuscan wines.
- Guided tour of private wine cellars
- Tasting of DOC Montepulciano wines
- Extra virgin olive oil tasting
- Insights from knowledgeable sommelier guide
Organic Farm Lunch
Next, the tour participants savor a delightful lunch at an organic farm, where they relish authentic Italian dishes showcasing the region’s finest local ingredients.
Served against the backdrop of panoramic vistas, the meal features sheep cheeses, cured meats, and homemade pasta – all sourced from the surrounding 0 km (locally grown) products.
This leisurely lunch offers a true taste of Tuscan cuisine, allowing guests to fully enjoy the region’s culinary traditions. The farm’s commitment to sustainability and organic farming practices ensures the freshness and quality of every bite.
This 3-hour lunch break provides a welcomed respite, fueling the group for the remainder of their wine-tasting adventure in the stunning Val d’Orcia.
Pienza Exploration
Following the leisurely lunch, the tour explores the picturesque town of Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests wander the charming medieval streets, admiring the harmonious Renaissance architecture that earned Pienza the nickname ‘the ideal city of the Renaissance.’ They visit the stunning Pienza Cathedral and take in panoramic views of the surrounding Val d’Orcia countryside, a landscape famously featured in films like ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ and ‘Gladiator.’
The highlights of Pienza include:
- The Duomo, an impressive Renaissance cathedral
- The Palazzo Piccolomini, the former papal residence
- Panoramic vistas of the rolling, picturesque Tuscan hills
- Quaint shops and cafés lining the town’s charming streets
Tour Inclusions
The tour includes private transportation throughout the day, ensuring guests can sit back and enjoy the scenic Tuscan countryside.
A certified sommelier/guide leads the group, providing expert insights into the region’s winemaking heritage.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the experience seamless.
Visitors will enjoy private tours of family-run wineries, where they’ll taste the renowned DOC Montepulciano wines, including the famous Nobile di Montepulciano.
An organic farm lunch featuring authentic Italian dishes, sheep cheeses, ham, and homemade pasta made with locally sourced ingredients completes the experience.
While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, gratuities are optional and not included, allowing guests to customize their experience.
Important Information
This tour isn’t suitable for individuals with limited mobility, as it involves walking and navigating uneven terrain. Gratuities for the guide and driver are optional and not included in the tour price.
The tour is conducted in English by a certified sommelier/guide.
Hotel pickup and drop-off in Florence are provided for convenience.
The tour involves visiting family-run wineries, an organic farm, and the charming town of Pienza.
Throughout the day, you’ll have the opportunity to taste a variety of DOC Montepulciano wines, including the renowned Nobile di Montepulciano, as well as extra virgin olive oil.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Be Customized to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate dietary restrictions. The tour provider is flexible and willing to work with guests to ensure their needs are met during the lunch portion of the experience.
Is There an Option to Visit More Than Two Wineries?
Yes, the tour can be customized to visit more than two wineries. Guests can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who may be able to accommodate additional winery visits within the overall tour duration.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour has a casual, relaxed dress code. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as there’s some light walking involved at the wineries and farm. No formal attire is required.
Can We Bring Any Purchased Wine Back to Florence?
Yes, travelers can bring purchased wine back to Florence. The tour includes visits to family-run wineries, allowing participants to sample and purchase local wines to enjoy later. However, check airline luggage policies before transporting any bottles.
Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour in Advance?
The tour operator may offer discounts for booking the wine tasting tour in advance. Booking early can save you money and secure your spot on the tour. However, the exact discount amount isn’t specified in the provided information.
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Recap
This full-day wine tasting tour from Florence offers an immersive glimpse into the enchanting Val d’Orcia region.
Travelers will explore the historic town of Montepulciano, visit a renowned winery, savor a farm-to-table lunch, and discover the charming town of Pienza.
Led by a knowledgeable sommelier guide, the tour showcases the area’s winemaking traditions, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, providing an unforgettable Tuscan experience.