The Guide · Wine
An Italian Wine Guide
A little wine knowledge goes a long way in Tuscany.
A little wine knowledge goes a long way in Tuscany. No scoring sheets or swirling lectures here — just the essentials, so every glass this week means a little more.
Start here
Tuscany in a Glass
Tuscany is one of Italy's most celebrated wine regions, and one grape defines it: Sangiovese. It's bright, savory and made for food — you'll meet it in nearly every glass of red this week, in many different moods.
The bottles
Wines Worth Knowing
Chianti Classico
The heart of Tuscan wine, from the hills between Florence and Siena. Primarily Sangiovese — expect red cherry, dried herbs and lively acidity. Look for the black rooster on the neck of the bottle.
Brunello di Montalcino
Made entirely from Sangiovese around the hilltop town of Montalcino, and one of Italy's most celebrated wines. Deeper, more structured and built to age — a bottle for a special dinner.
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
From the town of Montepulciano, based on Sangiovese. Somewhere between Chianti and Brunello: dark cherry, plum, a little spice and softer edges.
Super Tuscans
Winemakers who broke the traditional rules, often blending Sangiovese with international grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. Rich, polished and modern — Tuscany with a worldly accent.
Vernaccia di San Gimignano
The historic white wine of San Gimignano, the town of medieval towers. Crisp, fresh and gently almond-y — perfect at lunch, and something you may taste during our visit.
At the table
How to Order Wine in Italy
- Rosso
- Red
- Bianco
- White
- Bollicine
- Sparkling
- Un bicchiere
- A glass
- Una bottiglia
- A bottle
“The house wine is often excellent. You never need the most expensive bottle on the list to drink beautifully in Tuscany.”
At the winery
Wine Tasting Etiquette
- ✓Ask questions — winemakers love talking about their land.
- ✓It's perfectly fine not to finish every pour. The spittoon exists for a reason.
- ✓Skip heavy perfume; it gets in the way of the aromas.
- ✓Eat the bread and cheese. That's what it's there for.
- ✓If you love a bottle, say so — and take one home.
Above all, there are no wrong answers. If you like it, it's a good wine.
Volley & Vine
Salute.
The best glass of the week is usually the one shared with new friends at a long table.