How to organise a wine tasting tour in Tuscany? Here are all the tips: how it works, where to go and for how many days.

Wine tours in Tuscany: how they work and how to organise one

Until a few years ago, this was still considered a niche activity, reserved to experts and connoisseurs, whereas now, it is popular with simple wine lovers. We are talking about wine tours in Tuscany.

More and more Italian and foreign tourists are choosing to set off on wine tasting tours in Tuscany, land of Brunello and Chianti, as well as of some of Italy's most important winegrowers. A wine tour is an experience to be tried at least once in your lifetime. It is immersive, educational, and offers the opportunity not only to taste fine wines, but also to learn a great deal about them and how they are made, from vineyard to bottle. 

Wine tours in Tuscany: how they work

What should you expect from a wine tour in Tuscany? It is the type of experience that can be planned for a single day, a weekend or even several weeks, according to the area chosen and the number of wineries you want to visit. Even if the reservations can be managed independently or through a travel agent, this experience is always tasked to the cellar that will be hosting you each time.

Visiting the vineyards

One of the most charming parts of the tour is doubtless a visit to the vineyards, where those at work will show you the different types and varieties of grape, the growing techniques, and the history of the area which, in the case of Tuscany, is also interwoven with Italian art and literature. As you look at the rows of vines and the ripe bunches of grapes, you can feast your eyes on this beautiful region, the magic of the ripening grapes and the spectacular sight of the hills and mediaeval villages before you.

Visiting the wineries

The next step is a visit to the  cellar, the nerve centre of every winery, where the production processes take place and where, the treasured bottles of historic vintages are to be found. This is where the guide will explain how each wine is made, from the fermenting process to ageing, showing you how modern technologies are always combined with traditional, historic methods. This part of a wine tour in Tuscany is certainly the most educational and fascinating; a unique experience and opportunity to admire the secrets of the winery close up.

Wine tasting

Finally, the part that all lovers of fine wine are waiting for; the actual tasting. According to the package or  menu chosen, the winery will offer a selection of wines for tasting, served in the most suitable glasses, while a sommelier will take you through the tasting process  from eyes, to nose, and mouth. In many cases, wine tasting is combined with the opportunity to sample local speciality foods.

Wine Tours in Tuscany: simple rules for organising

Here is some advice about organising a wine tour in Tuscany. 

Choose the time of year

The choice of time period for organising a wine tasting tour in Tuscany is a very important one, not just because in different periods you can admire the scenery in different seasons, but also because the activities available during your visit are subject to change. September is doubtless the ideal month, because you can be present at the harvest - and sometimes, even take part- while summer is recommended for admiring the grapes as they reach peak maturity. The winter months are less to be recommended, since some wineries may be closed or operating at reduced hours.

Visit few wineries at a time

If your tour is to be a short one, we recommend not trying to visit as many as possible: choose just a few, but of good quality. A few, carefully selected wineries, and only one or at most, two per day. This is because each winery has its own story to tell and marvels to show you, and it is only fair that you enjoy the experience without rushing.

Private car or car with driver

If you don’t have your own vehicle, and if you want to enjoy a wine tour to the full, then we advise hiring a private driver who can accompany you from one winery to the next, if you intend to visit more than one, or who can drive you in the morning and return to collect you at the end of your visit.

Wine tasting tour in Tuscany at Castello Banfi Wine Resort

Castello Banfi Wine Resort organises wine tours in Tuscany for all wine enthusiasts, with different types of guided visit and wine tasting menus able to satisfy even the most discerning palate, for a magical experience in the shade of the old  Castello Banfi di Poggio alle mura, on the Banfi estate.

Guided winery visits

 Guided visits to the Banfi winery are available in the morning and afternoon. In the morning, the tour that begins at 11am also includes lunch, with a choice of  three- or four-course tasting menu (paired with selected wines). The afternoon tour includes a tasting of four wines.

As well as these proposals, it is also possible to book a two-hour private wine tour which, as well as the visit to the  vineyards and winery, adds a visit to the Balsameria and lunch at the La Taverna restaurant.

What features should a wine resort have for an unforgettable experience among Tuscan hills and wines? All the advantages of the Castello Banfi Wine Resort.

Choose the best wine resorts in Tuscany

If you are looking for a relaxing holiday, with good food, and views of the Tuscan hills, then a wine resort is the perfect choice. Staying in a wine resort in Tuscany means immersing yourself in the beauty of unparalleled views, surrounded by the fragrance of ripening grapes and fairytale castles, where you can enjoy the area’s finest wines. 

The wine resort phenomenon is a relative newcomer to Italy and it represents an exclusive type of holiday. In just a few years, the number of wine resorts in Tuscany and the rest of Italy is destined to grow. In Tuscany alone there are 65 such facilities that can be classified as wine resorts. Of course, we are talking about the land of Chianti and Brunello, an area where there is no shortage of fine wine, hospitality and stunning views.

What is a wine resort?​

But what is a wine resort? For wine lovers it is a place in which to explore the area where the finest labels are made, face to face with the people who work there, enjoying tastings of the highest level, surrounded by nature. For lovers of relaxation, it is a little corner of heaven in the hills, where they can be pampered and spoilt as they sip on a fine wine, maybe from the comfort of a spa pool. For couples it is the ideal location for special events, dining from a menu of typical local specialities and fine wines, in a fairytale setting of castles and mediaeval villages. 

There are three main characteristics that every wine resort needs to have: hospitality, stunning views and of course, great wine.

Wine resorts: the characteristics​

A wine resort is generally run by medium-large wineries that can offer tourists the possibility to stay in historic homes, old castles or converted mills, as well as to taste typical products and to enjoy guided tours of the wineries and vineyards.

Attention to detail is one of the characteristics needed by a wine resort: the traditional old buildings are renovated and furnished taking care to preserve their ancient splendour, but they can still offer all the comforts of a modern luxury hotel. There is no shortage of wine resorts with wellness centre, spa, gym, pool and everything you need for a splendid, relaxing stay. It is no coincidence that many resorts in Tuscany are chosen as locations for events and weddings.

Another essential characteristic that separates a wine resort from its more “traditional” cousin in the Tuscan hills, is the unavoidable link with wine. A holiday in a facility of this type is also an immersion into the world of wine and its production: in some periods of the year, it is also possible to take part in the harvest, as well as to visit the wineries which often still contain the traditional tools, a priceless heritage from both a cultural and historic point of view.

As well as fine wine, we should not forget great food. A stay at a wine resort in Tuscany is an experience for all the senses: many wine resorts also offer Slow Food where you can enjoy the typical dishes of the region, prepared by top chefs, according to tradition and using local produce.

Finally, the views: the beauty of the land of Chianti and Brunello simply speaks for itself, with its sunny hills with their rows and rows of vines, under a bright blue sky, accompanied by the smell of ripe grapes and dotted with villages and castles.

Hotel Castello Banfi Il Borgo, one of Tuscany’s best wine resorts​

Out of the best wine resorts in Tuscany we find Castello Banfi Wine Resort, created inside the walls of an old mediaeval castle, surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and hills, in the stunning setting of Castello di Poggio alle Mura. This facility, which is part of the Banfi, winery has all of the characteristics needed by an excellent wine resort: hospitality, great wine, and stunning views.

The rooms at Hotel Castello Banfi Il Borgo, furnished by famous interior designer, Federico Forquet, have every comfort and stand out for the attention to detail, fine fabrics and decorations added by hand. Shared spaces, such as the elegant Reading Room overlooking the castle courtyard or the modern wellness centre, have been designed to pamper our guests in every way.  La Sala dei Grappoli, the wine resort’s restaurant is a super-elegant dining room in the shadow of the historic Castello Banfi, and it serves excellent local dishes and traditional Tuscan specialities, with a seasonal tasting menu designed specifically to make the best use of typical regional produce, accompanied by the finest selection of Banfi wines.

Lastly, and it could not be otherwise, seeing that this is one of Tuscany’s best wine resorts, Castello Banfi Wine Resort offers guests the opportunity to visit the Enoteca, an elegant traditional Tuscan shop selling Banfi’s finest labels but also artisanal products and fine foods from the area.

When is the Palio di Siena 2022? Here is all the useful information on dates, programme and other useful tips on where to eat and sleep.

Palio di Siena 2022: dates, programme and useful information

After a two-year wait, due to the limits imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic, the people of Siena and anyone else who loves this historic sporting event can finally rejoice: it's time for the Palio di Siena 2022. 

The first palio of the year, the one known as the Palio della Madonna di Provenzano, held on 2 July has not long finished and already our thoughts are on the August event, the Palio della Madonna Assunta.

Palio di Siena: August dates

This event, which attracts hundreds of tourists from all over Italy and the rest of the world, as well as involving all the inhabitants of Siena's quarters or Contrade, is being held in Piazza del Campo on 16 August 2022.

If you are wondering when the next Palio di Siena will be, then you should know that the date of the race is actually August 16th, but on the four days running up to the race itself, you can enjoy a series of events linked to the Palio, and these form the historic and cultural heart of the race. Therefore, the entire event lasts from August 13th - 16th 2022.

Ticket prices and times for the Palio di Siena​

There is no charge to watch the Palio di Siena; the event is free for those who want to experience the thrill of being up close to the horses as they race, or who want to savour the sparkling competitive spirit of the Sienese and enjoy the event like a proper local.

The important thing is to find a place before the access points are closed, generally about 4:00 pm, when the race track itself is cleared. Taking into account the times for the Palio di Siena and the fact that the horses set off after 7:00 pm, it is quite a long wait, but always well worth it. The important thing is to come prepared, which means a hat to shade you from the sun, and some bottles of water.

Alternatively, if you want to see the race from above, looking out from the balcony of one of the characteristic palazzos overlooking Piazza del Campo, or comfortably seated in one of the bars surrounding the piazza, then we recommend contacting the bar management or the owners of the palazzos directly.

There is no official ticket office, which is why there is no way to find out the cost of a ticket for the Palio di Siena in advance. The same can be said about the stands set up on the outskirts of the piazza. This perfect compromise between comfort and the spirit of the contradaiolo is only available by asking about and hoping that there is an available place. The price for this type of ticket for the Palio di Siena starts from about €60.

Some tips for attending the Palio di Siena​

According to the new rules, in force since 2017, children under the age of 12 cannot enter Piazza del Campo on the day of the Palio. Therefore, it you want to attend the event with the whole family, then it is a good idea to reserve a place in the stands. The website ilpalio.org, authorised by the Consorzio per la Tutela del Palio di Siena, the consortium that protects the Palio, makes its own official email available (siena.@ilpalio.org) to help tourists to find the right place from which to watch the event.

If you want to spend a few days in  Siena so that you can enjoy all the events dedicated to the Palio, or you want to spend some time in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, then an interesting solution for overnight accommodation comes from Hotel Il Borgo, located in an old stone village near Montalcino and just an hour away from Siena. At the Castello Banfi Wine Resort you can also enjoy the best of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine in our ristorante La Sala dei Grappoli with its sophisticated menu and selected wines from Banfi.

The Contrade at the Palio di Siena in August 2022​

Sunday 10 July, a few days after the Palio that saw the Dragon Contrada win the race, the three contrade that will join the other seven with the right to race on 16 August. Here are the contrade taking part in the Palio di Siena on August 16th:

Tartuca, Lupa, Giraffa, Civetta, Leocorno, Nicchio, Valdimontone, Onda, Selva, Chiocciola

Palio di Siena 2022: programme

The Palio di Siena is more than a simple sporting event or historical re-enactment. It is an authentic celebration that involves the whole city of Siena over several days, with a sporting and cultural programme entirely dedicated to the city itself. The contradaioli (people from each Contrada) prepare for the Palio all year round, living it on a daily basis, but if you choose to visit Siena during the Palio, you will certainly not feel left out: the passion of the contradaioli, their enthusiasm for the race and their competitive spirit, together with an atmosphere of days gone by make staying in the city an even more magical, compelling event.

The “Tratta”

The August Palio starts on August 13th, with the so-called Tratta, when the 10 horses are chosen to take run in the final race. The horses are taken through their paces in Piazza del Campo, and the most suitable are then selected (there are usually at least thirty horses taking part).

The most awaited moment of the day is the assignment of the horses. Contrade and riders are then put together by draw, and for a tourist who is seeing the Palio di Siena for the first time, this must be one of the most exciting moments of the whole event. In the afternoon, it is time for the First Trial, which takes place around 7:15pm.

General Trial Dinner​

The second and third days are entirely dedicated to the trials, while the evening before the race, which is August 15th, there is a mounted charge by the Siena’s Carabinieri and the General Rehearsal Dinner, held by each individual contrada. This event, which is quite like the feasts held in Mediaeval times is also open to tourists and non-contradaioli, but it is necessary to book in advance and to remember that the whole event is managed individually by each of the contrade.

Race and other events ​ 

On August 16th, the day of the race itself, the Palio di Siena programme has even more events: from the Messa del Fantino, the riders’ mass, celebrated by the Archbishop in the chapel alongside the Palazzo Comunale, to the final trial, known as the Provaccia, and then the blessing of both horse and rider, concluding with the fabulous historic parade (start: 3:50 pm from Piazza del Duomo) and finally, the thrill of the race (7:15 pm).

The prize-giving to the winning Contrada takes place straight after the race, with the handing over of the Drappellone, the painted silk hanging, which is first taken to the Cathedral for a “Te deum” of thanks, and then to the Contrada. This year, the Drappellone is the work of artist Andrea Anastasio. 

Jazz & Wine in Montalcino is back. Discover all the useful information on dates, programme events and tips on where to eat and stay during the event.

Jazz & Wine in Montalcino 2022: dates, events and useful information

The Montalcino nights will once again ring out with the hot, passionate sounds of jazz, accompanied by fine wines to tickle your taste buds while the music delights your ears: we’re talking about Jazz & Wine in Montalcino, the summer Festival eagerly awaited by lovers of good wine and great music.

The event, now in its 25th edition, is being held from 19 - 24 July, when the thrilling setting of Castello Banfi and Fortezza di Montalcino will be hosting artists from the international music scene, such as Jacques Morelenbaum, Ron Carter and Mario Biondi.

This year’s artistic director is Eugenio Rubei, following in the footsteps of his brother, Paolo, previous artistic director who recently passed away. The Rubei family, from the Alexanderplatz Jazz Club in Rome, together with the Municipality of Montalcino and Castello Banfi. Banfi has always promoted good music, culture and talent, and this year it has decided to give enthusiasts an unforgettable experience under the stars, with jazz music in all its many facets.

Jazz & Wine in Montalcino 2022: il program

Just like every year, Jazz & Wine in Montalcino has a truly exceptional program, with seven evenings dedicated to music and fine wine.

Opening concert at Castello Banfi Wine Resort – 19 July

The Festival begins on 19 July with a performance by famous cellist Jacques Morelenbaum, accompanied by guitarist Lula Galvão, drummer Rafael Barata and vocalist Paula Morelenbaum. The unique setting for this performance with a Brazilian rhythm is the historic Castello di Poggio alle Mura, now better known as Castello Banfi, which, from 9:45pm, will be transformed into the perfect stage for Jazz & Wine in Montalcino 2022.

Concerts in Fortezza (Montalcino) – from July 20th

On 20 July the concerts will be moving to Fortezza a Montalcino, a place with great evocative power and historic beauty, which will captivate music lovers before they even hear the first notes. First on stage is jazz legend Ron Carter, accompanied by Jimmy Greene on sax, Renee Rosnes on the piano and Payton Crossley on drums.

On 21 July is the grand première of the Orchestra Nazionale Alexanderplatz, created thanks to the hard work and passion of Eugenio Rubei and conducted by Maestro Franco Piana.

On 22 July, the Fortezza will be hosting one of the most long-awaited guests of Jazz & Wine in Montalcino 2022: French artiste Richard Galliano, the genius who revolutionised jazz with his accordion, who has decided to celebrate his 50 years in music in the stunning setting of the Festival of Montalcino.

23 July will see the performance of an extraordinary jazz trio consisting of John Patitucci (bass), Rogerio Boccato (drums) and Yotam Silberstein (guitar), to give jazz fans a Saturday evening that’s all about a magical performance of Brazilian rhythm. 

Finally, on 24 July there will be an important tribute to Paolo Rubei by one of his dearest friends and colleagues, Mario Biondi, who, together with the Daniele Sannapieco 5et quintet will close this edition of Jazz & Wine in Montalcino with a magical mix of jazz and soul: an evening truly not to be missed.

The program for Jazz & Wine in Montalcino 2022 has a great deal to offer in terms of extraordinarily talented international artists, who will delight enthusiasts with their art and music. Ticket prices vary from 15 to 25 euro according to the chosen evening, and they can be purchased directly from the Vivaticket circuit.

Jazz & Wine in Montalcino: where to eat and stay

During Jazz & Wine in Montalcino, the wine is equally as important as the music: the event offers all enthusiasts the possibility to savour the best in Tuscan wines, to find out more about the traditional wineries, and to visit the areas where the sun kisses the land to create authentic masterpieces in a bottle.

This is why your programme simply must include gastro tours and time to relax in the stunning Tuscan hills. The ideal place to stay during Jazz & Wine in Montalcino is the Castello Banfi Wine Resort , the backdrop for the festival’s first concert: the exclusive Hotel Il Borgo, in its timeless setting, with mediaeval towers and centuries-old trees is ready to accommodate lovers of fine wine and music with the same courtesy and professionalism as always. 

During the Jazz & Wine in Montalcino, you can visit the Castello Banfi Wine Resort, enjoy long rides on horseback, tempt your palate with a  visit to the Banfi wine cellars, and enjoy traditional Tuscan cuisine at  La Taverna or you can also enjoy the extraordinary experience of dishes by Michelin-star Chef Domenico Francone at Sala dei Grappoli, or relax with a wonderful professional massage. All of these activities are the perfect way to rediscover your inner peace and recharge your batteries before becoming fully immersed in the musical experience of Jazz & Wine in Montalcino.

Fodor's Travel was born 80 years ago to offer expert travel advices for every stage of a traveler's trip. Today, they deliver their expertise in many different formats, such as print guidebooks, eBooks, website, mobile apps as well as across their social media platforms.

you can read the full news here

From today, Castello Banfi is officially among the 9 new associated, from all over the world, who have joined the prestigious Relais & Château circuit, the Association that brings together hotels and luxury restaurants. Relais & Châteaux, established in 1954, is an association of 580 unique hotels and restaurants throughout the world, owned and operated by independent entrepreneurs –most often families –who are passionate about their craft and deeply committed to forging warm, lasting relationships with their guests. The Italian Houses of the Association that have their own wine production that collects and returns the history, the passion and the culture of the region that hosts them, with the entrance of Castello Banfi they have become eight in total.

 “With its restaurants, the Enoteca and the Balsameria, the Borgo offers to the guests the opportunity of a fully involvement in the Tuscan wine and food traditions. At Relais & Châteaux we found a network of families and entrepreneurs driven by our own love for the land, by the desire to tell it and share it with guests "- comments Cristina Mariani-May, CEO & Owner.

We are honored to share with you all the 2019 TOP TEN RESORT HOTEL IN ITALY FOR THE TRAVEL LEISURE where Castello Banfi - Il Borgo is positioned at #6.

Every year for their World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe —to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities. 

Full article here

MONTALCINO, ITALY -  TripAdvisor®,the world’s largest travel site*, today announced the winners of its Travelers’Choice™awards for Best Luxury Hotels in Italy. Travelers’Choice award winners were determined based on the millions of reviews and opinions collected in a single year from TripAdvisor travelers worldwide. 

Castello Banfi has been mentioned by Whimsically wed as the perfect location to inspire a magical wedding in Tuscany. They say "We couldn't think of more perfect styling for an elopement in an Italian castle!"

Full article here

"...I have to admit, it was tough to pack up the car and leave this luxurious oasis.  But as long as the Castle stands, this “little boy” will eventually return.  If you’re looking to pamper yourself a mere 15 minutes from Montalcino and the splendors of the Val d’Orcia, do consider the Borgo at Castello Banfi."

Discovering Castello Banfi Il Borgo throughout the words of Mr. John Fodera who has truly experienced the Banfi excellence and the extreme care for details. 

Full article here.

We are glad to inform you that Castello Banfi - ll Borgo has been chosen as one of our Top 100 Hideaways in the World.

To receive this distinguished accolade, a property must have fewer than 50 rooms and exhibit exceptional character, a commitment to classic hospitality and offer a profound sense of place.

Here the full description written by Andrew Harpers staff.

We want to thank our staff to make this possible!

A good news to share with you! Castello Banfi is in the list of the 10 Top Wine Travel Destinations of 2018 that was published by Wine Enthusiast.
The list includes 10 destinations all around the world, from Australia to USA that shows two getaways: California and Colorado, and then France, China, Austria, South Africa, Spain, Uruguay and Tuscany with the Val d'Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 
In the section dedicated to Tuscany La Taverna Banfi is highlighted among the places where to dine and Castello Banfi is among the wineries where to do a tasting.

For the article please click here

Castello Banfi and Il Borgo are featured in the Forbes article “Slow Travel Through Central Tuscany: Breathe, Drink Sangiovese, Ignore Email”.

"For couples, especially honeymooners, Castello Banfi Il Borgo ticks off the boxes: Luxurious suites, horizon-stretching views, fine dining, poolside lounging, pastoral serenity, wine tasting, all on a romantic perch above the valley."

The full article, including several photos of the Banfi estate, can be seen on the Forbes website here.

On The Drink Business magazine, an interview to Cristina Mariani May.

‘Banfi has always believed strongly in hospitality. For this reason, the winery was designed to welcome visitors and open its doors to wine aficionados visiting the beautiful countryside of southern Tuscany’.

Castello Banfi on winning Afar’s 2^nd Travelers Choice Award in ‘Wine Country Retreat’ category.

We want to thank all the staff for the amazing job and all the travellers who chose us.

"The splendor of Italy’s diversity is apparent in its landscapes: the rolling, cypress-dotted hills of Tuscany; the small villages hugging the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast; the rocky, sun-splashed island of Capri. And just like the country itself, the resorts on this year’s list offer a wealth of options for the perfect Italian getaway."

This is how the 2017 Travel+Leisure tio 10 Resort Hotels in Italy strarts. Would you like to know more? Read here the full article!

Castello banfi - Il Borgo featured on Wine Spectator, August 31, 2017 issue, on page 29!