Where is it? The very picturesque Renaissance town of Montepulciano, which is about 40 miles south of Siena, is a must-visit. This is a small, but gorgeous town set high up on a ridge where stunning views of the Val d’Orcia and the Val di Chiana valleys can be seen.

Located in Montepulciano is the Piazza Grande where there is so much to admire. The town’s charms come as a result of its alliance with Florence from circa 1400 to the mid-1500s. As a result, there are many examples of great Florentine architecture around town.

Besides being such a picturesque town filled with ancient architecture, must admit what my husband and I like best…Montepulciano is famous for its wines. If you are a red wine lover, seventh heaven is in store for you right here in town because there are a wide variety of shops with wine-tasting opportunities offered.

The region is well known for Vino Nobile. This wine has a reputation of being preferred by Kings, nobility, and religious leaders throughout Italy. The law states that this wine must be produced in Montepulciano with at least 70 percent Sangiovese.

The Sangiovese grape is a grape with ancient origins. Today this grape is known as the pride of Tuscany because it produces some of the most desirable of Italy’s reds, most notably Chianti Classico.

Surrounding Montepulciano you will find not only enjoy the gorgeous countryside but a number of Vineyards. Poliziano is a larger one offering tours to visitors. There we were treated to seeing its beautiful vineyards, the cellar where the wine is stored, archives, and, of course, wine tasting.

There is also the well-known Avignonesi. This winery not only offers tours and tastings, but visitors may want to take advantage of a unique experience available there, a balloon ride through the beautiful hills of Tuscany.

Montepulciano tops our list of special destinations in Tuscany. Can’t beat the combination of beautiful countryside, ancient architecture, and tasting some of the best wines produced anywhere in the world.