Siena Top – Great wine tasting in Etruscan crypt

Travelers looking for a truly unique wine experience in Tuscany might find this wine tasting tour in Siena to be a delightful surprise. Hosted by Cantina del Brunello Sas, this small-group experience offers a perfect blend of history, authenticity, and excellent wine in a setting not usually open to the public. Imagine sampling some of Italy’s finest wines in an ancient Etruscan crypt—beneath the streets of Siena, no less—and pairing them with local Pecorino cheese. It’s a taste of Tuscany that’s both intimate and memorable.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the selection of wines—many are limited editions or exclusive to the cellar—plus the chance to explore a hidden, historic underground crypt. Second, the knowledgeable guide makes the experience not just about tasting but also about understanding the stories behind each glass and the place where it’s stored. However, note that this experience involves walking in a historic underground space, which could be an issue for those with mobility limitations or a fear of confined spaces. This experience is best suited for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and travelers craving something authentic and off the beaten path.

Key Points

• Exclusive wine selection featuring limited and unreleased bottles
• Historic Etruscan crypt adds a unique, immersive atmosphere
• Expert-guided tour provides insight into Tuscan and Italian wines
• Pairing of wines with Pecorino cheese and breadsticks offers a true taste of local flavors
• Small group size ensures personalized attention
• Convenient central location in Siena’s historic center

While Tuscany is famous for its picturesque vineyards and world-renowned wines, many travelers settle for the more commercialized tastings that often lack intimacy or a sense of place. This tour changes that. Hosted at one of Siena’s oldest wine shops—Cantina del Brunello di Montalcino—it promises access to a secret underground cellar, which is actually an Etruscan crypt dug into the tuff. This isn’t just a tasting; it’s a journey into the very bones of Siena’s past, combined with a carefully curated selection of top-tier wines.

The location itself is a highlight. Just a short walk from Siena’s main sites—starting at the Basilica of San Domenico—the underground crypt is a quiet, atmospheric space that adds a sense of mystery and history to the tasting. We liked the way the guide explains that this crypt was discovered after renovation work and now houses bottles that cannot be found elsewhere, especially outside Italy. Many are produced in limited quantities or kept for special releases, so you’re tasting wines that are quite literally rare treasures.

The tour lasts about one hour—a manageable time for stopping in Siena’s busy streets and a perfect length to stay engaged without fatigue. You’ll meet your guide at the wine shop and descend into the crypt, where the atmosphere isn’t just cool but also steeped in history. The guide’s explanations are both friendly and informative, providing context about the wines, the region, and the Etruscans.

The wine tasting itself involves sampling three carefully selected wines. These are not random picks but choices designed to showcase the best of Tuscan and Italian wines, including Chianti Classico, Supertuscan, and Brunello di Montalcino. Many of these are labels that connoisseurs seek out but may not see in regular stores outside Italy. The guide emphasizes that some bottles are not intended for export, making this an exceptional opportunity to taste authentic, limited-production wines.

Alongside the wines, you’ll enjoy a plate of Pecorino cheese from the area, paired with breadsticks. This simple, delicious pairing highlights the regional flavors and gives your palate a break between sips. Reviewers often mention how well the cheeses complement the wines and how the combination makes for an unforgettable tasting experience.

• Start Point: The tour begins at the wine shop near the Basilica of San Domenico, where you’ll be greeted and briefed before heading underground.
• Underground Crypt Visit: Descend into an Etruscan tomb carved into the tuff, which has been converted into a wine cellar. This space, discovered after renovation, contains wines not available elsewhere.
• Wine Tasting: Sampling of three wines, each selected for their quality and significance—ranging from Chianti Classico to Brunello and Supertuscan—paired with pecorino and breadsticks.
• Duration: Approximately one hour—just enough time for an intimate, relaxed experience.
• Location: Central Siena, within walking distance of main sights, making it easy to include in your sightseeing day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and Not

Included in the price are entrance to the crypt, a guided experience in both Italian and English, the wine tasting, and the cheese pairing. It’s a fairly balanced offering, considering the exclusivity of the location and the quality of wines. Private transportation isn’t included, but the meeting point is conveniently situated in the historic center.

The small group size—limited to 10 participants—means you’ll receive personalized attention, making it suitable for those who prefer a more intimate setting. The guide’s knowledge and friendly manner are frequently praised, which enhances the learning and enjoyment.

Practical Considerations

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues due to the underground nature of the crypt. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as walking and standing in a historic cellared space is part of the experience. The activity is well-organized with flexible cancellation policies—up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—adding peace of mind.

Compared to more generic wine tastings or large group tours, this experience provides genuine access to rare wines and an authentic historic setting. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the wines, especially the limited editions that aren’t available outside Italy. While it costs more than a standard tasting, the uniqueness of the location and the exclusive bottles make it a worthwhile investment for wine enthusiasts and history lovers alike.

The tasting isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding the story behind each bottle and feeling connected to Siena’s past. That’s something you can’t get in a typical wine bar or tourist trap.

This tour is perfect for wine lovers eager to sample exclusive bottles in an atmospheric setting, history buffs curious about Siena’s ancient past, and travelers looking for a small-group, authentic experience. It’s an excellent choice for those who want more than just a quick tasting, seeking a memorable story to take home along with a few bottles of superb wine.

It’s also an ideal activity to include in a day of exploring Siena’s sights, as it offers a break from the crowds and a chance to enjoy a genuine local experience.

This Siena wine tasting in an Etruscan crypt provides a rare chance to combine history, regional flavors, and exclusivity in one compact experience. The combination of small group size, expert guidance, and access to limited-edition wines delivers real value for those looking for an authentic, engaging, and memorable activity.

While it may not be suitable for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or young children—the experience is a treasure for connoisseurs, history enthusiasts, and curious travelers alike. If you’re after a taste of Tuscany that’s both genuine and a little mystical, this is an outing you won’t forget.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the activity is not suitable for children under 18 due to the nature of the underground crypt and alcohol tasting.

Are pets allowed?
Pets are not allowed inside the crypt, though assistance dogs are permitted.

How long does the tasting last?
The experience lasts about one hour, offering enough time to enjoy the wines and learn about their background without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
You get entrance to the crypt, a guide in Italian and English, a tasting of three wines, and a pairing of Pecorino cheese with breadsticks.

Can I buy the wines I taste?
Yes, there’s the possibility of purchasing wine by the bottle or arranging shipments, making it easy to bring home your favorites.

Is this activity accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, due to the underground setting and walking involved, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Siena’s rich heritage and exceptional wines in a setting that’s hard to beat. Perfect for those wanting a small-scale, meaningful experience that combines culture, history, and flavor in one memorable package.

You can check availability for your dates here: