The hidden secret of Montepulciano

Montepulciano is definitely on the tourist trail but worth a visit for it’s stunning architecture – from the gracious elegance of San Biagio to the Piazza Grande with some of the best views in Southern Tuscany. Montepulciano is home to Vino Nobile – so called because the Vatican sent emissaries to this magnificent hilltop town for its local wine. The hill is honeycombed with tunnels and cantine where the vino nobile is made and stored in barrels and bottles. Here are Plinius' favorite places in Montepulciano: 

The hidden “secret” of Montepulciano is the Talosa wine cellar; the main barrel aging cellar is in the old town center of Montepulciano, in an underground area between two of the oldest buildings in the city: Palazzo Tarugi and Palazzo Sinatti. The Talosa Cellar date back to the 16th century and visiting them is like stepping back time. The brick passageways contain a series of vaults and niches where the barrels are placed. 

Since 1972 the estate has been owned by the family of renowned entrepreneur Angelo Jacorossi. Talosa was one of the first wineries in Montepulciano to undertake the quest for fine quality which brought the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano appellation to the heights of Tuscan and Italian winemaking. Talosa is definitely one of our favorite wine estates and I would highly recommend bringing a few bottle back with you! 

Talosa: Via Talosa, 8 - 53045 Montepulciano (Siena) – Italia
Phone: +39 0578 757929

Visits and Tastings: Every day from 10:30am ti 07:00pm (Festivities included). Closed on the 25th of December. During January and February please call to confirm opening hours

Caffè Poliziano is an elegant Caffè in the historical centre of Montepulciano and a fine example of Art Nouveau design. For generations visitors and local residents have been able to enjoy a glorious view of of the Valdichiana from the balcony. 

Caffè Poliziano Via di Voltaia Nel Corso, 27/29, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 9PM Phone: +39 0578 758615 Reservation: caffepoliziano.it 

Restaurant “La Grotta” is set in an authentic and charming sixteenth century building with a garden terrace, directly opposite the Church of San Biagio (one of the best examples of Tuscan Renaissance architecture). La Grotta strives to offer a perfect balance between traditional Tuscan cuisine and modern gastronomy - its aim is to blend the authenticity of the region with innovation while, at the same time, respecting the centuries-old traditions. La Grotta's chef focuses on the quality of the ingredients, rather than on the complexity of the dishes. The wine list offers a vast range of locally-produced bottles alongside a wide choice of international labels. 

La Grotta, Via di S. Biagio, 15, 53045 Montepulciano SI, Italy Menu: lagrottamontepulciano.it Phone: +39 0578 757479 Closed on Wednesdays 

Fattoria San Martino: The small and very charming Fattoria San Martino lies just outside the city walls of the medieval village of Montepulciano. A rural, tranquil and beautiful Italian guest house surrounded by stunning gardens. The air is filled with fragrances of fresh herbs and zesty bergamot. It’s experiencing and feeling nature.

The exclusive plant-based vegetarian restaurant offers delicious vegetarian and vegan cuisine as well as a high quality selection of organic wines and local beers. Guests can eat outside on on of the terraces with view either on Montepulciano or to the Tuscany hills, or inside. Since the dishes are entirely freshly made dishes it is essential to book a table before coming here. Fattoria San Martino is open for lunch and dinner. 

Fattoria San Martino Via di Martiena 3, 53045, Montepulciano (SI) 
Book your table and enjoy! +39 0578 717463 | info@fattoriasanmartino.it