Wine Lover's Guide to Siena

Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Siena is just a stone’s throw from several of Italy’s most celebrated wine-producing regions. Wine lovers who make their base here will have plenty of chances to learn about—and taste—sought-after labels and rare vintages. Here’s what you need to know about wine tasting in Siena.

Must-Try Varietals

Wine lovers in this part of Italy can choose from among a number of famous wine-producing regions. North of town, between Siena and Florence, is the famous wine region of Chianti. Chianti is well known for its production of medium-bodied Chianti Classico reds, which are made using at least 80%sangiovesegrapes, with the rest made of up blends that may includecanaiolo,colorino,cabernet sauvignon,syrah, andmerlot. 

South of Siena lies Montalcino, where Italy’s famous Brunello di Montalcino wine is made using 100% sangiovese grapes. Also south of Siena is Montepulciano, whose Vino Nobile di Montepulciano red is again made mostly of sangiovese, with small amounts of other varietals such ascanaioloandmammoloblended in. White-wine lovers may want to make the journey northwest to the hill town of San Gimignano to try Vernaccia di San Gimignano, made using the whitevernacciagrape. 

Must-Do Experiences

• See medieval castles such asCastello MonteriggioniandCastello Di Meletoduring a wine tour of Chianti. 

• Hike to a winery on the vineyard-surroundedVia Francigenaancient pilgrimage route.

• Learn about the production of Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti wines duringwinery tours.

• Train your palate during a guidedwine-tasting workshop. 

• Drive a vintage Italian car through the Tuscan countryside before stopping at a local winery for amulticourse meal accompanied by Tuscan wines.