Brunello di Montalcino Wine Tour of 2 Wineries with Pairing Lunch

When it comes to experiencing Tuscany’s wine culture, few tours manage to blend authenticity, comfort, and insight quite like a Brunello di Montalcino wine tour. This particular experience, offered by Forzoni Tours, takes you on an approximately 8-hour journey that includes visits to two distinguished wineries, a scenic drive through the Val d’Orcia, and a delicious pairing lunch in the charming hilltop town of Montalcino. It’s a package that promises not just tastings but a full immersion into the region’s vinicultural soul.

What we love about this tour is its small-group setting, which fosters a more personalized experience. Plus, the fact that transport, expert guides, and tastings are all included makes it a hassle-free way to explore the area. One minor consideration is that the tour is quite structured, so if you’re after a completely unplanned, spontaneous day, this might feel a tad curated. But for those who want quality, education, and beautifully crafted wines, this tour hits the mark.

This experience generally suits wine enthusiasts, lovers of Tuscany’s scenic landscapes, and travelers who prefer guided tours to avoid the hassle of driving and logistics. Whether you’re in Siena for a day or a longer stay, this tour offers a deep dive into the world of Brunello with enough flexibility to make it memorable.

Key Points

• Authentic Wineries: You visit two small, historic wineries rather than large commercial operations, offering a genuine taste of Tuscany’s wine craftsmanship.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights about the region’s history, wines, and culture, elevating the experience beyond just tasting.
• Stunning Scenery: The drive through Val d’Orcia provides iconic views of rolling hills, cypress trees, and picturesque villages—perfect for photo stops.
• All-Inclusive Value: Tastings, lunch, bottled water, and transportation are included, making it a good value for a full day of wine exploration.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour feels intimate, allowing for better engagement and personalized attention.
• Convenient Pickup: Being picked up and dropped off at your Siena hotel adds comfort, especially after an indulgent day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: First Brunello Winery Visit

The day begins with a tour of one of the region’s historic Brunello producers. Expect to step into a centuries-old cellar where the winemaking tradition is alive and well. Guests typically enjoy tasting a variety of wines, including Brunello di Montalcino reds, which is the flagship product of this region. As one reviewer noted, “the wines themselves were lovely,” and the guide, Vincenzo, received praise for doing a “fantastic job” explaining the process.

This first stop is about an hour long, giving enough time to soak in the atmosphere, ask questions, and appreciate the craftsmanship behind these world-renowned wines. The small-scale nature of the winery means the staff is often friendly and eager to share their story. For many visitors, this authentic setting is a highlight—not a tourist trap, but a genuine family-run operation.

Scenic Drive Through Val d’Orcia

Next, the drive takes you through the breathtaking Val d’Orcia, recognized for its iconic Tuscan landscape. A knowledgeable driver guide will point out local landmarks, share regional history, and comment on the impact of terroir on the wines. With panoramic views that seem almost too perfect to be real, this part of the tour is a feast for the eyes and the soul.

One reviewer mused, “the drive with the driver guide who told us about the territory and wines was an hour of spectacular views,” making this a memorable part of the day beyond just wine.

Stop 2: Montalcino and the Second Winery

The tour’s second winery visit is in the hilltop town of Montalcino itself—a place that’s as much about history as it is about wine. Guests typically spend around two hours here, enjoying a tour of a centuries-old vineyard where Brunello di Montalcino is produced with care and tradition. Expect to see age-old cellars, learn about aging processes, and taste the results of generations of craftsmanship.

Many guests, including one who called Patrizia Cencioni’s wines “incredible,” appreciate the variation offered in this stop. The guide’s knowledge helps you understand what makes Brunello so special—its Sangiovese Grosso grape, its aging requirements, and its place in Italian wine culture.

Lunch: Pairing with History

A highlight for many is the pairing lunch served at this second winery, now improved and more substantial than some reviews initially described. Expect a three-course meal, each course paired thoughtfully with the winery’s wines, including a dessert wine with Tuscan cookies. Reviewers have called it “spectacular” and “super complete,” with some noting the food exceeded expectations.

The lunch isn’t just about eating; it’s a chance to relax, chat, and savor both the wines and local flavors. The setting, often historic or atmospheric, adds to the sense of being truly immersed in Tuscany’s wine and food traditions.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Personalization and Authenticity

The small group size—up to 8 guests—ensures that you’re not just another face in a crowd. Guests have praised guides like Vincenzo and Niccolò for their depth of knowledge and personable approach. One review even mentioned that the driver, Patrizio, was “very friendly and informative,” making the long day feel warm and engaging.

Quality of Wineries

Unlike mass-tourism wineries, the venues visited are boutique, family-run places that focus on quality and tradition rather than commercial mass production. This gives you a more authentic taste of what Montalcino and Montepulciano are really about.

Scenic and Cultural Value

Passing through Val d’Orcia, your eyes and camera will thank you. Plus, the stops in towns like Pienza for a quick Pecorino cheese tasting or Montepulciano for an underground cellar tour add layers of culture that go beyond wine.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, you can relax knowing that logistics are handled. Pickup and drop-off at your Siena hotel make the day seamless, especially after an afternoon of wine and food indulgence.

Cost and Value

At $371.54 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience—visits to two wineries, tastings, a substantial lunch, scenic drives, and expert guides. Some guests have noted that the value is high, especially given the boutique wineries visited—places you might not find on your own.

While the price might seem steep at first glance, remember that it includes transport, guided tastings, and a full meal. Compared to arranging individual tastings and meals, this organized tour provides convenience, expert insight, and access to authentic, lesser-known wineries—making it a worthwhile investment for wine lovers.

Common Questions (FAQs)

What is included in this tour?
You get visits and tastings at 2 wineries, a pairing lunch in Montalcino, bottled water, and transport in a luxury air-conditioned vehicle. Pickup and drop-off at your Siena hotel are also included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am. This includes driving, tastings, and lunch, making for a full and satisfying day.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, non-drinkers can enjoy the scenic drives, cultural stops, and the historical aspects of the wineries. You can always ask the guide for non-alcoholic options or just enjoy the scenery.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, which fosters a more intimate experience and allows for personalized attention from guides like Vincenzo or Niccolò.

Can I customize the experience?
While the itinerary is set, the small group setting often allows for some flexibility if you communicate your interests, especially regarding wine or local culture.

What is the level of walking involved?
Most stops involve some walking—around a vineyard or through the town of Montalcino. The terrain can be uneven in historic wineries, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Is there enough time for shopping?
Many guests find time for purchasing wines, olive oils, or Pecorino cheese. The wineries often have shops where you can buy bottles to take home.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is through Viator or directly with Forzoni Tours. It’s recommended to reserve about 50 days in advance, as this tour is popular.

Wrapping It Up: Who Is This Tour For?

This Brunello di Montalcino tour suits travelers who want a deep, authentic experience without the hassle of self-driving. If you love wines with a story, enjoy beautiful landscapes, and appreciate small, family-run wineries, this is an excellent choice. The guided element, combined with scenic drives and a delicious lunch, ensures a well-rounded day that balances education, taste, and scenery.

It’s particularly ideal if you’re in Siena and want to venture into the heart of Tuscany’s wine country without the complexity of planning each detail yourself. The small group size guarantees that you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the overall value—considering tastings, meals, transport, and expert guides—is hard to beat for a day trip.

If you’re after a tour that offers both quality wines and culture, this experience will leave you with lasting memories—and maybe a few bottles to enjoy back home.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Brunello di Montalcino wine tour offers a thoughtful, well-curated introduction to Tuscany’s renowned wine region. The combination of historic wineries, breathtaking scenery, and delicious local cuisine makes it a standout choice for anyone wanting to experience the authentic flavors of Italy’s most celebrated wine.

With a reputation for excellent guides, authentic small wineries, and spectacular views, it’s a tour that balances education with enjoyment. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious traveler eager to learn, this experience delivers a genuine taste of Tuscany’s vinicultural heritage—done in style, comfort, and with plenty of opportunities to savor every moment.