A First-Time Guide To Brunello di Montalcino
A First-Time Guide to Brunello di Montalcino
Brunello di Montalcino is one of Tuscany’s most celebrated wines, but visiting the region does not need to feel intimidating.
Montalcino sits on the western edge of the Val d’Orcia, surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and quiet country roads. A first visit is best approached slowly: one or two winery visits, a long lunch and time to explore the town itself.
What is Brunello di Montalcino?
Brunello is made entirely from Sangiovese grapes grown around Montalcino.
It is known for its depth, structure and ability to age, with flavours that can include red cherry, herbs, spice, tobacco and earth.
The wine spends several years ageing before release, which gives it more complexity and intensity than many younger Tuscan wines.
Brunello or Rosso?
The two main wines to understand are:
Brunello di Montalcino
The region’s flagship wine: structured, complex and designed to age.
Rosso di Montalcino
Made from the same grape, but released earlier. It is usually fresher, lighter and easier to enjoy with lunch.
For a first tasting, trying both side by side is one of the best ways to understand the difference.
How many wineries should you visit?
Two in one day is enough.
Winery visits often include a cellar tour and seated tasting, and the roads between estates take longer than they appear on a map.
A relaxed day might include:
one winery in the morning
lunch in or around Montalcino
one winery in the afternoon
a walk through the town before heading home
Trying to fit in more usually makes the day feel rushed.
Do you need to book?
Yes.
Many wineries are working estates rather than walk-in tasting rooms, so visits should be reserved in advance, especially in summer and during harvest.
When booking, check:
how long the visit lasts
which wines are included
whether food is served
whether the tasting is available in English
whether the winery ships internationally
Should you drive?
Only when someone in the group is not drinking.
The roads are narrow, distances can be significant and many estates are difficult to reach without a car.
Hiring a local driver is often the easiest option. It allows everyone to enjoy the tastings and removes the pressure of navigating between wineries.
What should you eat with Brunello?
Brunello is best enjoyed with food.
Classic pairings include:
pici pasta
wild boar ragù
grilled or roasted meats
bistecca alla Fiorentina
aged pecorino
mushrooms and truffles
Rosso is often ideal for lunch, while Brunello suits a slower dinner or richer dish.
Leave time for Montalcino
Do not spend the entire day driving between wineries.
Montalcino itself is a beautiful hill town with stone streets, small wine shops, cafés and wide views over the surrounding countryside.
The medieval fortress is a natural place to begin, and the centre is compact enough to explore in an hour or two.
A simple first-day itinerary
10:00 — Winery visit and tasting
12:30 — Long Tuscan lunch
15:00 — Second winery visit
17:30 — Walk through Montalcino and aperitivo
That is enough for a full and memorable day.
The best way to experience Brunello
The best visit is not about tasting the greatest number of wines.
It is about understanding the place.
Leave space between appointments. Ask questions. Take the quieter roads. Sit down for lunch. Let the day unfold slowly.
That is the rhythm Brunello deserves.
Staying near Montalcino
Away From The Flock offers three private villas in the heart of the Val d’Orcia, within easy reach of Montalcino, Pienza and the surrounding wine country.
With up to 18 bedrooms across the three villas, the collection is particularly well suited to families and groups exploring Tuscany together.