964 Tuscany is one of our favourite destinations for 2015, and what is possibly the best thing about Tuscany? Its wine! Italy is one of the most renowned producers of top quality red and white wine, and Tuscany is home to countless vineyards – it’s the spirit of wine country! Chianti and Montepulciano are just some of the fine creations which are made in the picturesque region. A wine tasting experience at a Tuscan vineyard is an intriguing and indulgent experience – you won’t just be given a sip of wine and offered a wander around the grounds. You will learn about the world famous processes behind some of the planet’s most delicious wines, all with jaw-dropping landscapes by your side. We’ve rounded up the best vineyard experiences for you to enjoy while staying in Tuscany. Castello di Ama What sounds more perfect than a castle in a vineyard where you can try the Haiku Chianti Classico? You can enjoy the beautiful surrounds in complete privacy, as tours are private and by appointment only. Pure bliss! More information and bookings at: www.castellodiama.com Castello di Ama Salcheto For those eco-warrior travellers out there, Salcheto is the winery for you. It’s Europe’s first self-sufficient winery, using renewable energy resources, and is also certified organic. Sit on the terrace overlooking picturesque views, tasting top quality wines and sampling cold cuts and cheeses from the enoteca. Tours can be arranged by appointment. www.salcheto.it Salcheto Tenuto San Guido This is probably one of the most exclusive wineries in Tuscany, with tour slots filling up far in advance. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc are the main attractions at this vineyard, and a bottle from this winery once won a content for the best Cabernet from 11 different countries. It has a wine bar and a restaurant so is still worth a visit if you can’t arrange a private tour. www.tenutasanguido.com Tenuta San Guido Antinori Chianti Classico Easily accessible from Florence, this winery has a modern feel but don’t be fooled – the Antinori family have been in the business since the 1300s! Not only will you find wine bars and tasting rooms here, but also a wine museum, art collection and book shop. Guided tours run every hour but booking is essential. Antinori Fontodi Nestled in the small village of Panzano is an organic farm boasting 30 hectares of olive trees and 80 hectares of vines. This beautiful winery offers the ultimate in Tuscany hospitality, and doesn’t charge for tastings of the wine produced here or make visitors feel obligated to buy a bottle. www.fontodi.com Hopefully we have inspired you to take an unforgettable trip to wine country – Tuscany. Take a look at some of the luxury Tuscan villas you could be staying at in Italy in between wine sampling. Cantine AntinoriCastello di AmaFontodiluxury villas ItalyPassepartout Homes.SalchetoTenuta San GuidoTuscany holidaysTuscany villaswine tasting experienceswine tasting in Tuscany