Tuscany July 2025

[jimv]

Planning a week in Tuscany early July. Any recommendations for winery tastings, good wine stores and anything else welcome.

[Ian S]

Montepulciano is possibly the easiest location, as (rarely for Italy) there are a lot of drop-in tasting rooms in the centre, but you can also make appointments (typically at the out of town ones).

In Lucca, Enoteca Vanni is superb. The small shopfront isn't particularly exciting, but the interest ramps up when you stroll out back into their cave, with lots of old bottles. Some prices for these are a bit elevated, but it's a place that's a lot of fun to rummage around for something that appeals and feels like value.

Both these locations have a strong draw outside of wine, if fellow travellers aren't as enthused about wine as yourself.

[Waiters Friend]

Montepulciano is possibly the easiest location, as (rarely for Italy) there are a lot of drop-in tasting rooms in the centre, but you can also make appointments (typically at the out of town ones).

In Lucca, Enoteca Vanni is superb. The small shopfront isn't particularly exciting, but the interest ramps up when you stroll out back into their cave, with lots of old bottles. Some prices for these are a bit elevated, but it's a place that's a lot of fun to rummage around for something that appeals and feels like value.

Both these locations have a strong draw outside of wine, if fellow travellers aren't as enthused about wine as yourself.

Excellent comments, Ian, and thoroughly endorsed by me. LOVE Enoteca Vanni, especially the cavernous cellars. Some excellent restaruants at different price points in Montepulciano, too.

I would also opt for Chianti Classico, and this can be mixed with some history (e.g. Castello Di Volpaia, Livornano) if fellow travellers aren't as wine-focussed. And just the drive around the hills is worth it alone.