Tasting of the Best Wines in Siena in an Etruscan Crypt

Discover Siena’s Ancient Etruscan Crypt and Top Wines

This wine tasting tour in Siena offers a 1-hour journey into Italy’s rich winemaking traditions, all set within a captivating Etruscan crypt. For $143.30 per person, visitors indulge in a curated selection of Tuscan and Italian wines, including Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti Classico, and Super Tuscans. The experience is perfect for those eager to combine wine appreciation with a taste of history, as the tasting takes place in a secret underground chamber carved into tuff.

The tour is hosted by Cantina del Brunello di Montalcino, one of Siena’s oldest wine shops, known for its focus on Brunello di Montalcino and exclusive top labels like Masseto, Sassicaia, and Ornellaia. Many bottles inside are not available elsewhere because they are produced in limited quantities and are not exported, adding an extra layer of exclusivity to this intimate experience.

Travelers should prepare for an approximately 1-hour session that combines tasting, education, and the chance to sample some of Italy’s finest wines. The tour includes a selection of pecorino cheeses and bread sticks to complement the wines, making for a delicious tasting that highlights regional flavors. While private transportation is not included, the location near public transit makes it accessible for most visitors.

Key Points

• Unique underground setting: Tasting takes place inside an Etruscan crypt dug into tuff, discovered during renovation.
• Curated wine selection: Enjoy over a thousand labels, including Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti Classico, and select famous labels like Sassicaia.
• Exclusive bottles: Many bottles are not available for export and are produced in limited quantities.
• Expert hosting: The experience is led by Frederico, a knowledgeable host praised for his storytelling and wine expertise.
• Tasting includes: Top Tuscan pecorino cheeses and bread sticks complement the wines.
• Duration and booking: The 1-hour tour is popular and usually booked 30 days in advance, ideal for those seeking a brief yet rich experience.

The Location and Meeting Point in Siena

The tour begins at Cantina del Brunello di Montalcino, located at Via della Sapienza, 66 in Siena. The setting is easily accessible, with the meeting point close to public transportation options. The activity ends back at the start location, making it convenient for further exploration or dining in Siena.

Inside the Oldest Siena Wine Shop

Cantina del Brunello di Montalcino stands out as a historic wine shop, with a focus on Brunello and other prestigious labels. The shop boasts a collection of rare bottles, many of which are kept underground in the Etruscan crypt. Visitors get a rare glimpse of Siena’s wine history while sampling some of the finest wines Italy offers.

The shop combines heritage and expertise, with Frederico and his team sharing stories behind each label. Guests appreciate the personalized attention and deep knowledge about the wines and local traditions.

The Experience of Wine Tasting in an Etruscan Crypt

The main feature of this tour is the setting: an underground Etruscan tomb carved into tuff, discovered during recent renovation work. This historic chamber provides a dramatic backdrop for the wine tasting, creating a memorable atmosphere that blends history and gastronomy.

The environment is intimate, with a small group capped at 10 people, ensuring a personalized experience. The lighting and ambiance enhance the sense of discovery as you sample exclusive wines surrounded by ancient walls.

The Curated Wine Collection and Tasting Notes

The wines offered are from more than a thousand labels, carefully selected for their quality and regional significance. Guests sample top-tier Tuscan wines, including Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Super Tuscans, along with famous Italian labels such as Masseto and Sassicaia.

Many of these bottles are produced in limited quantities and kept not for export, adding an exclusive appeal. The tasting emphasizes flavor complexity and regional character, with Frederico providing insights into wine production and regional differences.

The Food Pairings

Complementing the wines are a selection of Tuscan pecorino cheeses, which perfectly highlight the local dairy tradition. The cheeses are served with bread sticks, enhancing the tasting experience and emphasizing regional flavors.

The Expertise of the Guide and Host Federico

Frederico leads the tasting with a friendly, knowledgeable approach. His expertise and storytelling are frequently praised in reviews, as he shares insights into wine production and local culture. Visitors appreciate how he guides the tasting not just through flavors, but also through history and tradition.

The experience is personalized, with Frederico making sure each guest understands the characteristics of each wine and answers questions with enthusiasm. His passion for wine and Siena’s heritage shines through during the session.

How the Tour Balances Education and Enjoyment

This short, 1-hour tour offers a balanced mix of educational insights and casual tasting. It’s suitable for beginners who want to learn more about Italian wines, as well as experienced wine enthusiasts eager to taste rare labels in a historic setting.

Guests report feeling pampered and well-informed without feeling rushed. The small group size fosters engagement and allows for personal interaction with Frederico.

Booking and Cancellation Details

This tour is booked on average 30 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The price of $143.30 per person includes the wine tasting and cheese pairings, making it a good value considering the exclusivity and setting.

Free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for changing plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to wine lovers who appreciate historic settings and exclusive bottles. It’s ideal for those visiting Siena and looking for a short, enriching activity that combines culture, history, and gastronomy. Visitors who enjoy small-group experiences and personalized attention will find this tour particularly satisfying.

While the 1-hour duration suits most schedules, those seeking a more extensive wine tour might want to explore additional options. Accessibility is not explicitly addressed, but the location’s proximity to public transit benefits most guests.

Sampling wines inside an Etruscan crypt offers a once-in-a-lifetime feel, blending archaeological intrigue with top-tier wine tasting. The rare bottles and exclusive labels make this a must-try activity for wine enthusiasts visiting Siena.

The knowledgeable hosting by Frederico, combined with the historic surroundings, creates a memorable and educational experience that highlights Siena’s rich viticultural heritage. Whether you’re here for a quick taste or a deep dive into Italian wines, this tour delivers a unique perspective on Tuscany’s wine excellence.

How long is the wine tasting tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour.

What is included in the price?
The experience includes wine tastings, featuring top Tuscan and Italian wines, along with pecorino cheeses and bread sticks.

Is transportation included?
No, private transportation is not included. The tour begins at Via della Sapienza, 66 in Siena and is accessible via public transit.

Who is the host of the tasting?
The tasting is led by Frederico, a knowledgeable host praised for his storytelling and wine expertise.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this experience suitable for all?
Most travelers can participate, though specific accessibility details are not provided. It’s ideal for wine lovers and those interested in history and local culture.