A Guide to Tuscan Wineries

If you're planning a visit to Tuscany, look no further than this guide to some of Chianti's best wineries, set in the picturesque hills and rich soil that makes it a jewel in the crown of Italian winemaking. Comoclub caught up with wine writer Guy Woodward, who shares some of his favourites.

Casa Emma, Castellina in Chianti Beneath the inviting, family-oriented ambience of this charming winery lies a modern, eco-conscious philosophy. The organically produced wines are nurtured in a vineyard fertilised by a flock of 80 geese, creating a natural ecosystem that controls grass and unwanted pests to maintain the health of the soil. Casa Emma, like many Tuscan wineries, makes its own olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey and even pomace flour.

Open for tours and lunch daily (reservations only); from EUR28; www.casaemma.it

Castello di Fonterutoli, Castellina in Chianti The earliest recorded mention of Chianti as a wine dates back to 1398, noted in a letter from Ser Lapo Mazzei to a merchant from Tuscany. Today, his descendants continue to own the renowned Castello di Fonterutoli. This winery is run by Filippo and Francesco Mazzei, producing a range of highly-regarded Chiantis and ‘SuperTuscans’. The estate offers a variety of tours, wine tastings, and even local treks, as well as culinary experiences inspired by the cuisine of its fine osteria.

Open daily from 10am to 6pm; from EUR30; www.mazzei.it

Castello Di Rampolla, Panzano in Chianti Castello Di Rampolla, in Chianti’s Conca d’Oro valley, is recognised for its long-standing commitment to biodynamic winemaking and innovative approach to vinification. Rather than relying solely on traditional methods, Castello Di Rampolla experiments with alternative techniques such as aging its wines in terracotta amphorae and other unconventional vessels.

Vineyard and winery tours Monday-Friday, April-October, 9am-1pm only; tastings available in the shop free of charge, tours from EUR30; www.castellodeirampolla.it

Panzanello, Panzano, Greve in Chianti The Sommaruga family welcomes visitors with complimentary tastings and more immersive tours paired with regional charcuterie. The estate produces a classic collection of wines, from Chianti Classicos to ‘SuperTuscans’. Among its offerings, Guy notes ‘the most innovative, fun rosé’ he’s encountered in Tuscany—a pure, unfiltered Sangiovese called 'Error 404,' with impressive fruit and structure.

Open Monday-Saturday, 10.30-18.00; free tasting, tours from EUR32; www.panzanello.it

Marchese Antinori nel Chianti Classico, San Casciano The vast Antinori winery, opened in 2012, is a marvel to behold, with a scale and ambition that sets it apart. Embark on an array of tours and tastings, with an option to dine at its al fresco restaurant overlooking the vineyard.

Open daily, April-October, 10am-6.30pm; November-March, Monday to Friday, 10am-5.30pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-6pm; from EUR45; www.antinori.it

  Poggio Amorelli, Castellina in Chianti A farm first and foremost, Poggio Amorelli’s setting showcases the Tuscan rural idyll to the utmost. Tastings, tours and lunch, or a combination of the three, are all available, the latter drawn from the organic vegetable garden, all to the backdrop of the native sheep, horses and roosters, the latter the symbol of the Chianti Classico appellation.

Open daily; from EUR30; www.famigliamazzarrini.it

Book a stay at COMO Castello del Nero — the perfect base for you to discover the wines of Tuscany — and ask our concierge about our wine tours, where you can earn Comocredits for every spend.