Cantina Contucci is an ancient estate located in the historic center of Montepulciano, a hilltop town in Tuscany. This winery has been producing wine for over one thousand years, making it deeply connected to the agricultural history of the region. Visitors arrive here to experience the authentic roots of Tuscan winemaking, especially during the annual Calici di Stelle festival in August when the town celebrates its local viticulture under the summer night sky.
What You Can Do
During the summer festival, the historic cellars of the estate remain open late into the evening. Visitors can walk through the vaulted brick chambers, view the massive oak barrels, and sample wines directly from the producers. The estate hosts structured tastings of their signature vintages, allowing guests to compare different aging styles. You can also join guided walks through the historic town center, stopping at various tasting stations set up along the stone streets.
What They Offer
The estate specializes in Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a red wine made primarily from the Prugnolo Gentile grape variety, which is a local clone of Sangiovese. They also produce Rosso di Montepulciano and a traditional Vin Santo dessert wine. While the estate does not operate its own hotel, they partner with local guesthouses in the medieval town to provide accommodation. The focus here is entirely on historical preservation, traditional winemaking methods, and educational cellar visits.
Activities
Beyond wine tasting, the festival features street performances, live classical music in the public squares, and historical parades. Visitors can explore the nearby Orcia Valley, a scenic area ideal for walking and photography. The thermal baths of Bagno Vignoni are a short drive away, offering a relaxing day trip. In the evenings, stargazing sessions are organized in the main square of Montepulciano, led by local astronomers who set up telescopes for public use.
Food to Eat
The festival highlights local Tuscan gastronomy. Food stalls and small eateries throughout Montepulciano serve traditional dishes like pici, which is a thick hand rolled pasta served with a rich garlic tomato sauce or wild boar ragu. Local pecorino cheese from nearby Pienza is paired with chestnut honey and served alongside cured meats. The estate wines are served with these dishes, showing how the high acidity of the Sangiovese grape cuts through the richness of the local food.
Why Visit
This destination provides an authentic look at Tuscan wine culture without the commercial crowds of larger wine fairs. The festival combines history, community spirit, and high quality agriculture in a relaxed setting. It is an ideal stop for travelers who prefer slow travel, historical architecture, and direct interaction with winemakers who have tended the same land for generations.
Review
The experience at Cantina Contucci during the August festival is remarkably authentic, offering genuine warmth and historical depth. The historic cellars can feel somewhat crowded during peak evening hours, and parking outside the town walls requires a steep walk up the hill. However, the quality of the Vino Nobile and the unhurried pace of the tastings make this a highly rewarding visit for any wine enthusiast.