Overview
The wine of Montepulciano, from the Renaissance to today
The Contucci family, who cultivated grapevines as far back as the Renaissance, is considered the predecessor of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano red wine, according to a document from 1773. The Contucci Winery, which dates back to the 12th century, was built before the Palazzo Contucci, which was constructed in the 16th century and frescoed by Andrea Pozzo.
This historic Contucci residence, just like the winery, overlooks Montepulciano’s magnificent Piazza Grande square. Featuring Renaissance style, it is furnished with restored period furniture. You can also stay overnight in one of the suites.
The winery covers 170 hectares, 21 of which are dedicated to vineyards, growing only native grape varieties. The wines produced there include Rosso di Montepulciano, Sansovino, Vin Santo and Bianco della Contessa. Harvesting is carried out by hand and cultivation is environmentally friendly.
The historic wine cellars are spread over three floors and contain concrete and steel vats and oak barrels for ageing the wines. One room is dedicated to tasting, while others store the family’s private reserves. The oldest bottle dates back to 1887. Most fascinating is the underground area, with rooms carved into the rock and connected by tunnels.
