Montepulciano is a 50 minute drive from Montalcino and we recommend visiting this charming city for guests of Palazzo Tamanti. The city sits on the top of a hillside and is known for its DOCG wine called Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. The noble wine is made from Sangiovese grapes, but a different clone of Sangiovese which is used in Montalcino.
Make sure you wear comfortable shoes since the town center requires an uphill walk through local shops and restaurants.
Montepulciano has more shopping and selection of restaurants than the smaller city of Pienza and Montalcino. Parking can be a challenge so make sure you map out all potential parking lots in advance so you can quickly find a place to park, if you are driving.
The history and winemaking restrictions in Montepulciano follows a similar path to other DOCG wines, which regulate barrel aging and time to market. Wines from Montepulciano do not command the high prices which Montalcino wines can grab in the open market, which makes their wines more attractive to the everyday wine drinker.
I like to find where the locals eat and you can count on Osteria Acquacheta for great food, low prices, and a packed dining room. The restaurant is located near the main city gates so you will pass the restaurant as you climb the main road to get to the shops on the upper level of town.
If you are looking for a more upscale dining experience, then book a table at Ristorante La Grotta. This restaurant is right outside the main city gates and across from the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Biagio.
You can learn more about the history of Montepulciano on the website link below or if you need driving instructions, click on the Google Maps link below.
Copyright © 2024 Palazzo Tamanti. All Rights Reserved