Brunello and Montepulciano Wine Tour from Cortona

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with exceptional wines, gorgeous scenery, and authentic Tuscan charm, the Brunello and Montepulciano Wine Tour from Cortona might just be your perfect match. This approximately 8-hour experience takes you through some of Italy’s most celebrated wine-producing areas, with visits to two renowned wineries, a stop in the picturesque Pienza, and a delicious Tuscan lunch. The tour promises a stress-free way to explore the region’s top wines without the hassle of driving yourself—an ideal choice for those who want both comfort and authenticity.

What really stands out about this tour is the quality of the wine tastings and the knowledgeable guides who bring the countryside alive with stories and insights. Plus, the scenic drives through the Val d’Orcia offer postcard-perfect views that make every moment feel special. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the tour’s price of around $390 per person includes a full day of tastings, sightseeing, and a traditional Tuscan lunch, making it a solid value for wine lovers or anyone interested in the region’s culinary culture. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy good wine, cultural sightseeing, and a relaxed pace—especially those who prefer to leave the driving to someone else.

Key Points

• Taste Italy’s flagship wines like Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano at two carefully selected wineries
• Travel comfortably with round-trip transportation, avoiding the stress of navigating rural roads
• Discover Pienza, a charming town famous for its cheese and beautiful views
• Enjoy a Tuscan lunch in a historic winery, paired with local specialties
• Learn from expert guides who share insights into wine production, local traditions, and regional history
• Small-group experience with a maximum of 8 travelers for a more intimate, personalized day

A Complete Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at 8:30 am, with pickup offered from your hotel or immediate surroundings in Cortona. The vehicle is air-conditioned, equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable ride through the rolling Tuscan hills. With a maximum group size of eight, you won’t be part of a giant bus crowd, which means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Reviewers frequently mention their driver’s expertise and friendliness—many say guides like Michele and Niccolo made the day feel both informative and fun.

Having transportation included means you can focus on enjoying the scenery rather than worrying about navigating or parking. Plus, the pickup service ensures that even travelers staying outside the town center can conveniently join the tour.

First Stop: Montalcino

The day’s journey begins in Montalcino, the home of Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy’s most prestigious wines. Here, you’ll tour a boutique winery owned by passionate local producers. The tasting includes Brunello, Riserva, and Supertuscan varieties, providing a well-rounded experience of the region’s wine craftsmanship.

Guests have lauded this stop for its informative and engaging tour, with some noting that the owners are present to share their stories firsthand. One reviewer described the experience as “extremely informative,” which helps deepen your appreciation for the nuances of this renowned wine. The tasting session lasts around two hours and is included in the tour price.

Second Stop: Val d’Orcia

Next, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the Val d’Orcia, one of Tuscany’s most iconic landscapes, characterized by rolling hills, cypress trees, and golden fields. The drive alone is worth the trip, with many reviewers mentioning how stunning the vistas are.

In Val d’Orcia, you’ll visit one of the oldest and most famous Brunello wineries. Here, the tasting is also two hours long, and the vineyards’ reputation for quality is reflected in the wines sampled. The winery’s long-standing history and traditional production methods come through in the flavors, and many travelers comment that this was a highlight for them—both for the setting and the excellent wines. The tasting is included in the tour fee, adding value to the experience.

Pienza: The Charming Stopover

After the winery visits, you’ll stop in Pienza, often called the “ideal Renaissance town,” known for its Renaissance architecture and sweeping views of the Val d’Orcia. A short, leisurely walk through the town’s historic center allows you to admire its narrow streets, quaint shops, and the magnificent cathedral.

Most reviews mention the cheese tasting here, as Pienza is famed for its Pecorino cheese. You’ll get a chance to sample some of the best varieties, adding a flavorful local touch to your day. The hour in Pienza is a perfect break, giving you the chance to stretch your legs and soak in the scenery.

Montepulciano and Lunch in an Ancient Cellar

The final stop is the hilltop town of Montepulciano, famous for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. The highlight of this segment is a sit-down, multi-course lunch in a centuries-old underground cellar. This isn’t just a food break—it’s an immersive experience that combines tasting, culture, and history.

Guests rave about the quality of the lunch, which includes local Tuscan specialties paired expertly with local wines. One reviewer noted the “lovely meal in a historic setting,” adding that the guide explained the traditions behind each wine, which enriched the tasting experience. The entire experience here lasts about three hours, making it the perfect way to wind down the day.

The Value and What You Get

At $390.89 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive day of wine, food, and sightseeing. The included items—two winery tours and tastings, a traditional Tuscan lunch, and a cheese tasting in Pienza—offer a well-rounded taste of the region’s culinary richness. Guests also appreciate the air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi, making the journey comfortable and connected.

Many reviews praise the knowledgeability and friendliness of the guides, like Michele and Niccolo, who share stories and insights that elevate the experience beyond just drinking wine. The small-group setting ensures a more intimate and engaging atmosphere, which most find worth the premium price.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• Authentic Wine Experiences: You’ll savor Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano in settings that reflect their production traditions—small boutique wineries, historic cellars, and family-run estates.
• Beautiful Scenery: The drive through the Val d’Orcia, with its rolling hills and picturesque towns, is an experience in itself.
• Cultural Touchpoints: The stop in Pienza provides a glimpse into Renaissance Italy, complemented by the cheese tasting that highlights local culinary traditions.
• Relaxed Pace: The day is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to explore, taste, and learn without feeling rushed.

Potential Drawbacks

While the tour is highly praised, some reviews indicate that the wine tastings, while good, might not be exceptionally outstanding or rare. One review mentioned that the driver was not particularly knowledgeable about wines or the region, which could be a consideration if you’re seeking an in-depth wine education. The price might seem steep for travelers on a tighter budget, but many feel the value is justified by the quality of the experiences and the convenience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re looking for a combination of wine tasting, cultural exploration, and scenic drives. It particularly suits wine enthusiasts eager to learn more about Brunello and Vino Nobile, or food lovers keen to indulge in Tuscan specialties. It’s also ideal for visitors who prefer not to drive and want a small, intimate group for a more personalized experience.

Travelers who enjoy beautiful landscapes, historic towns, and authentic local foods will find this tour hits the mark. However, if you’re seeking rare wines or extensive vineyard education, this might be more of a “taste and enjoy” experience rather than a deep dive into the wine production process.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at your hotel or immediate surroundings in Cortona, making it very convenient.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, from 8:30 am start to late afternoon return.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, all tastings at the two wineries, as well as the cheese tasting in Pienza and the Tuscan lunch, are included in the price.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The vehicle is air-conditioned and equipped with Wi-Fi, making the long drives comfortable and connected.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What’s the group size?
The tour limits the group to a maximum of eight travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Do I need to know about wines beforehand?
Not at all. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and the experience is designed for all levels, from beginners to connoisseurs.

Final Thoughts

The Brunello and Montepulciano Wine Tour from Cortona is a well-rounded package that offers more than just tastings. It’s a chance to enjoy spectacular Tuscan scenery, learn about iconic wines, and indulge in authentic regional food—all in a relaxed, small-group setting. The experience is particularly suited for those who value comfort, quality, and a bit of education alongside their wine.

While it might not satisfy the most advanced wine aficionados looking for rare vintages or in-depth production insights, it excels at providing a taste of Tuscany’s best wines paired with cultural highlights. For anyone eager to explore Tuscany’s wine heritage without the stress of self-driving, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Additional Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking through towns like Pienza and Montepulciano, which have charming, uneven cobblestone streets.
• Bring your camera—every turn in the Val d’Orcia offers a postcard-worthy view.
• Consider having a light breakfast before the tour to fully enjoy the wine tastings and meal.
• If you’re a cheese lover, the stop in Pienza is especially worth savoring—don’t miss the chance to sample different Pecorino varieties.

Enjoy your Tuscan adventure, and cheers to discovering some of Italy’s finest wines in their most beautiful settings!