The historical hilltop towns of Montalcino and Montepulciano are often confused because their names sound so similar. However, the first means "the mount of the oak" the latter means "the mount of politics". Both names were given to each area centuries ago and their meaning no longer have much to do with what goes on in these towns. Nowadays both are wonderful wine making regions of Tuscany.

Where Montalcino has its Brunello, Montepulciano is famed for the red wine called Vino Nobile or "noble wine". Montepulciano is also in the South of Tuscany and is favored by the climatic conditions that proves to make great red wines. Funnily enough, it also produces the greatest Vin Santo dessert wines (that are aged up to 10 years).

We shall visit a small winery that produces the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano for a tour of the historical cellars. If the weather permits, we shall taste wines in the garden overlooking the view that you see on this background. There will be a little snack with the first tasting. Then we will head for a another winery for one more tasting. Before we know it, it will be time for lunch in a lovely local trattoria where there will be the chance to taste the local specialties.

There will be time to visit Montepulciano itself for a shorter or longer time - depending on whether you would like to do another tasting in another associated winery in the afternoon before we start heading back. During the day you can expect to taste the typical Rosso di Montepulciano of the area, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Riserva of the same, Super Tuscans and Vin Santo (dessert wine).