Montepulciano: Wine Tasting & Lunch - Fiorentina Steak

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Tuscany through its wine and culinary traditions, this wine tasting and lunch tour in Montepulciano offers an authentic glimpse into the region’s celebrated flavors. For just $59 per person, this experience combines a professional vineyard visit, a guided cellar tour, and a hearty Tuscan feast centered around the iconic Fiorentina steak. It’s a fantastic choice for those eager to learn about local wine-making, enjoy scenic views, and indulge in a true Tuscan meal.

Three things we particularly love about this tour are its focus on educational insights into viticulture, the impressive selection of wines paired with local cured meats and cheeses, and the setting—either outdoor with panoramic views or cozy candlelit indoor tables. The only potential drawback? The tour price doesn’t include the actual Fiorentina steak, which is charged separately by weight. Still, for the value and depth of experience, it’s hard to find a more genuine or delicious way to spend a day in Tuscany.

This tour is ideal for wine lovers, foodies, and travelers who appreciate authentic countryside experiences. Whether you’re visiting Montepulciano for the first time or seeking a memorable culinary adventure, this experience hits many of the right notes.

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Key Points

Educational vineyard visits provide insight into Tuscan viticulture and winemaking techniques.
Four wine tastings include signature labels paired with local cured meats and cheeses.
A carefully prepared Tuscan lunch features a prime Fiorentina steak cooked over embers.
Flexible seating options include outdoor panoramic views or intimate indoor tables.
No upfront payment needed—reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Suitable for all levels of wine knowledge and those craving an authentic Tuscan dining experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Montepulciano Tour: A Walk Through Vineyards and Cellars

The experience starts with a visit to the vineyards that surround Podere della Bruciata, where you’ll learn about the art of viticulture—from pruning to harvest practices—directly from knowledgeable guides. The reviews highlight how engaging and informative these parts of the tour are, with visitors noting that the guides go beyond basic explanations, sharing regional insights and farm stories that add depth to the experience.

Following the vineyard walk, you’ll head to the ageing cellar and barrel cave, where the team demonstrates their wine maturation techniques. The dimly lit room, filled with barrels of varying sizes, offers a sensory journey—faint aromas of oak and fermenting grapes fill the air, creating a perfect backdrop for those interested in winemaking. Multiple reviews praise how the hosts’ passion for their craft shines through, often mentioning the personal touches in the explanations, making technical details accessible even for casual wine enthusiasts.

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The Wines and Food Pairings: A Flavorful Journey

The four wines included in the tasting are carefully selected to showcase the terroir and craftsmanship of Podere della Bruciata. These include the USTA Rosato IGT, a lively, aromatic rosé perfect to start the meal, and the TIZZO Toscana IGT, an intense red that’s structured enough to stand up to the Florentine steak. The ETERNAUTA cuvée offers a dynamic blend of aging and balance, while the Cesiro Vino Nobile di Montepulciano provides a classical, elegant finale.

Each wine is paired with local cured meats and cheeses—a selection praised by guests for its quality and regional authenticity. One reviewer fondly remembers how the meats complemented the wines, and how the cheeses added a creamy contrast. The emphasis on local artisanal products and some of the winery’s own production makes this tasting both educational and flavorful.

The Main Event: The Florentine Steak

The highlight of the meal is undoubtedly the Florentine steak, a prized dish in Tuscany known for its simple yet bold flavor. Carefully grilled over embers, the steak is served with seasonal sides direct from the garden, enhancing its freshness. Guests have noted how tender and flavorful the meat is, especially when cooked to perfection—something that the guides take pride in emphasizing.

While the tour price doesn’t include the steak itself, it’s charged by weight at €5.50 per 100 grams, giving guests control over portion size and cost. Several reviews mention that the steak is worth the extra expense, describing it as succulent and cooked just right. The pairing of the wine with the steak is praised for elevating the entire meal, making it a true celebration of Tuscan cuisine.

Seating and Atmosphere: Choice for Every Mood

Guests can choose to enjoy their meal outdoors with panoramic views of the vineyard, or opt for a cozy, candlelit indoor setting. The outdoor seating is especially popular in good weather, offering stunning vistas that make every sip of wine and bite of steak feel special. Indoors, the warm candlelight creates an intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic meal or a quiet celebration.

One visitor mentioned that the outdoor setting “felt like dining in the heart of the countryside,” while another appreciated the quieter indoor space for a more relaxed experience. Both options are well-designed, with attentive staff ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.

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Practicalities and Logistics

The tour begins at the designated meeting point—Google Maps is recommended for precise directions—and ends back at the starting location, making it easy to incorporate into your day. The entire experience lasts several hours, blending education, tasting, and dining seamlessly.

Group sizes are likely small to medium, considering the personalized nature of the tour, and the guides speak both Italian and English, ensuring clear communication. The price of $59 per person is competitive given the inclusion of multiple tastings, a guided cellar tour, and a full Tuscan lunch. The option to reserve now and pay later, with cancellation free up to 24 hours before, adds flexibility for spontaneous plans or last-minute travel.

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Authenticity and Value: What This Tour Means for You

This experience delivers much more than just wine tasting; it’s a chance to understand the craftsmanship behind Tuscan wines, explore wine cellars rich with history, and enjoy a proper Tuscan feast. The emphasis on local products and a traditional grilling technique makes this a genuine taste of the region.

Guests frequently mention the stunning views and the quality of the wines and food as key highlights. The tour offers great value for money, especially considering the insights gained and the high-quality meal included. It’s suited for those who want to enjoy the Tuscan countryside without sacrificing comfort or education.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to deepen their understanding of Tuscan viticulture, and foodies craving a robust, authentic meal paired with excellent wines. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic day out, groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a guided insight into Tuscany’s wine and culinary traditions.

Those who appreciate scenic landscapes will love the panoramic outdoor seating, while anyone interested in winemaking techniques and local gastronomy will find this tour thoroughly rewarding. Keep in mind, the additional cost for the steak offers flexibility but may be a consideration if you’re on a tight budget.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, the tour starts at the specified meeting point, and Google Maps is recommended for directions.

How long does the experience last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified here, it encompasses vineyard and cellar tours, tastings, and lunch, so it’s likely a several-hour experience.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

Are guides available in English?
Yes, guides speak both Italian and English, ensuring clear explanations regardless of your language preference.

What is the cost of the Fiorentina steak?
It’s charged by weight at €5.50 per 100 grams, allowing you to choose your portion size.

Does the tour include a dessert?
No, the tour does not include a homemade dessert with distilled spirits pairing, but you might find this available as an optional addition.

To sum it up, this Montepulciano wine tasting and lunch experience offers a well-rounded introduction to Tuscany’s wine and culinary scene. With engaging vineyard visits, a comprehensive wine tasting, and a mouthwatering Florentine steak, it combines education, scenery, and flavor in a way that feels both authentic and accessible. It’s best suited for those looking to combine learning about wine with hearty Tuscan cuisine, all set against a backdrop of stunning countryside views. For travelers eager to enjoy a true taste of Tuscany—this tour is a wonderful, tasty choice.