With rolling hillside vineyards, medieval villages and warm hospitality, it's no wonder that Tuscany is one of the world's most popular wine destinations.  From the Renaissance masterpieces of Florence to the cypress-lined country roads, Tuscany is a feast for all senses.

The Tuscan wine region is known for wines made from the Sangiovese grape. Although Sangiovese is planted in a few other parts of the world, the grape is indigenous to Tuscany.  The three most popular Sangiovese-based wines of Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Multepulciano offer a different expression of the grape based on climate, grape clone and amount of oak-aging. Although high in tannins, Sangiovese pairs quite well with many foods thanks to its fresh acidity. In addition to traditional Sangiovese, parts of Tuscany produce delicious wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and others known as Super Tuscans.

In addition to red wine, Tuscany makes delicious white wines, mostly from the Trebbiano, Vermentino and Vernaccia grapes. Also popular is the Vin Santo dessert wine made from the passito method of making wine from dried grapes, giving it a deep, rich flavor. Made all over Italy, Grappa is a distilled spirit made from the pomace of grapes - the seeds, skins and stems leftover from the winemaking process. Grappa is best enjoyed in a small glass as a digestif after dinner (or in coffee!).

One of the benefits of visiting such a popular region is that the wineries are well appointed for tourism and welcome visitors with open arms.  From grand Tuscan wine estates to smaller, lesser known producers, you will find unique and immersive experiences throughout the region.  Compare the different expressions of Sangiovese - which do you enjoy the most? Take a tour of an ancient castle cellar or learn about the latest technology in a modern winery. Lovely art collections, olive groves, working farms, impressive architecture - Tuscan wineries have much to offer.

Beyond wine, Tuscany is a fascinating destination. Spend your time exploring all the different hill towns for historic sites, bustling piazzas and the world's greatest gelato. Tour the town of Siena for exquisite Gothic architecture and its Piazza de Campo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk or cycle on top of the 16th century walls of Lucca for unforgettable views and grab a photo opp at the leaning tower of Pisa. Admire the incredible towers in San Gimignano and visit the Vernaccia Wine Museum located in a 14th century fortress.

For a change of pace, take a drive to the Tuscan coast for a day at the beach. Enjoy an invigorating bike ride through the vineyards before visiting a working farm and making your own cheese. Roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking class and learn the fine art of producing olive oil.

With so much to see and do in Tuscany, it is easy to see why it is so beloved. Every wine enthusiast must explore Tuscany at least once - have you visited yet?

Contact us today to start planning your trip to Tuscany!

If you love Tuscany, you also must visit Rioja!

Like Tuscany, Rioja produces bold and rustic red wines based on centuries of tradition. Set between the cities of Bilbao and San Sebastian, Rioja enjoys easy access to world class art and stunning coastline.

At Cuvée Wine Travel, we plan custom trips for people who love food and wine. We also offer small group travel, river cruises and small ship luxury cruises escorted by a wine expert, winemaker or vintner. Would you like to travel with a group of friends or clients? Or perhaps join a winemaker on a river cruise? Let’s talk about your next wine adventure!