Wine tourism tasting SuperTuscan
Wine Tourism tasting SuperTuscan: Information, How to move in the area, Top Wine Experiences, Itineraries and tours, tips and secrets.
The Supertuscan, SuperTuscanor Super Tuscan is an iconic red wine from Tuscany, renowned for its elegance, structure, and complexity. Born from the boldness of Tuscan winemakers who chose to go beyond the region's traditional winemaking rules, the Supertuscan represents a perfect blend of Tuscan wine culture and innovation, offering a tasting experience that highlights the unique terroir of Tuscany.
In this article, we're not talking about a wine destination, but about a wine that has grown into a brand of its own. It's a wine with a special identity, found in the beautiful region where it was created: Tuscany.
Although initially classified as simple table wines due to the use of international grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, Supertuscans quickly gained global fame and recognition for their extraordinary quality. These wines, which combine the best of local and international grape varieties, reflect Tuscan tradition while pushing its boundaries. Their history, which began in the 1960s with pioneering wines like Sassicaia and Vigorello, is closely tied to the renewal and evolution of Italian winemaking, making Supertuscans a true treasure of Tuscany.
The SuperTuscan Wines
Welcome to Tuscany, the Cradle of Innovation, Tradition, and Wine Excellence!
Tuscany, a region celebrated for its rolling hills, medieval towns, and a profound cultural heritage, serves as the ideal setting to explore Supertuscan wines—remarkable red wines that have redefined Italian viticulture. Situated in the heart of Italy, Tuscany's unique combination of geography and climate provides perfect conditions for viticulture, particularly for the innovative blends of grape varieties that characterize Supertuscans.
The diverse terrain of Tuscany, from the coastal plains of Bolgheri to the inland hills of Chianti, creates a variety of microclimates that are ideal for cultivating these grape varieties. The region’s warm, sunny days and cool nights, along with its well-drained soils, contribute to the distinctive character of Supertuscan wines.
How To Reach SuperTuscan
When planning a trip to taste the Supertuscan wines, consider these two main travel routes to make the most of your journey.
Route 1: The Hearth of Tuscany
Begin your journey in Florence, the capital of Tuscany, where the Renaissance art and culture will set the perfect tone for your wine exploration. From Florence, head to the Chianti Classico region (see our blog page about Chianti Classico), known for its picturesque vineyards and rolling hills. Here, you can visit several wineries that produce some of the best Chianti Classico wines, which often feature Sangiovese grapes that are also key components in many Supertuscan blends.
Next, travel to the medieval town of Siena, where you can explore its historic streets and enjoy a taste of local wines. From Siena, make your way to the coastal region of Bolgheri (see our blog page about Bolgheri), the birthplace of Supertuscan wines like Sassicaia and Ornellaia. In Bolgheri, you’ll experience the unique terroir that combines Mediterranean climate influences with gravelly soils, ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. End your journey by exploring the Maremma region, another hub for Supertuscan production, where you can enjoy more tasting experiences in a stunning coastal setting.
This itinerary immerses you fully in the rich wine culture of Tuscany, culminating in the discovery of the iconic Supertuscans.
Route 2: From Northern Italy to Tuscany
Start your journey in the Veneto region, home to the famous Prosecco and Valpolicella wines. Explore the vineyards around Verona, where you can taste robust reds like Amarone and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions. From Veneto, travel south to Emilia-Romagna, a region renowned for its sparkling Lambrusco wines and rich culinary heritage. Visit the towns of Modena or Bologna for a mix of gastronomic delights and wine tasting.
Continue your trip to Tuscany, beginning in the Chianti Classico region, where you can sample some of the region’s best Sangiovese-based wines. From here, proceed to Bolgheri, where Supertuscan wines have gained worldwide acclaim. Explore the vineyards and wineries in Bolgheri, learning about the innovative blends that define Supertuscans. Conclude your journey with a visit to the Maremma region, where you can experience more Supertuscan wines along with the region’s natural beauty.
This itinerary offers a broader exploration of Italy’s wine regions, leading you from the sparkling and robust wines of Northern Italy to the innovative and iconic Supertuscans of Tuscany.
Flights
Trains
While the train network in Tuscany is efficient and well-connected to major cities like Florence, Siena, Arezzo, and Pisa, reaching the more rural Supertuscan wine-producing areas often requires additional transportation. Once you arrive in these cities, you will need to travel by car or taxi to explore the picturesque countryside, visit vineyards, and experience the heart of Tuscany’s wine regions. Renting a car offers the flexibility to navigate the scenic roads and discover the hidden gems of Tuscany's wine country.
Car / Ncc
To explore the Supertuscan wine regions effectively and appreciate Tuscany’s beautiful landscapes and diverse attractions, renting a car is highly recommended. A car provides the flexibility to visit remote vineyards, picturesque hilltop towns, and charming villages at your own pace. Tuscany's road network is well-developed, making it easy to navigate between the iconic wine regions and discover hidden gems along the way.
For a more luxurious and stress-free travel experience, consider renting a private driver. Several services offer chauffeured cars, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic Tuscan countryside without the need to navigate unfamiliar roads. This option is particularly useful for visitors who prefer a more personalized and comfortable way to explore the region's renowned wine estates and breathtaking landscapes.
SuperTuscan Wine & Food Pairings
Supertuscans emerged in the 1960s and 1970s as a rebellion against the restrictive DOC regulations that governed Italian winemaking at the time. Winemakers, frustrated by these constraints, began to experiment by blending traditional Tuscan grapes like Sangiovese with international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. These bold experiments were initially relegated to the lowest classification of Italian wine—Vino da Tavola— "table wines", but their exceptional quality quickly caught the attention of the global wine community.
The term Supertuscan was coined in the 1980s, primarily by the English-speaking press, to describe these groundbreaking wines that didn’t fit into the traditional Italian classification system. In the case of SuperTuscan, the adjective "super" is not a synonym of outstanding or superb, it merely refers to a wine that goes "beyond Tuscan grapes". Nevertheless, the name has become synonymous with high-quality, innovative wines that reflect both the rebellious spirit of their creators and the unique terroir of Tuscany.
Today, Supertuscans are celebrated worldwide as some of the finest wines Italy has to offer, representing a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. They stand as a testament to Tuscany's enduring legacy as a leader in the global wine industry.
Did you know? The Fathers of Super Tuscan Wines
Two iconic wines are often credited as the "fathers" of the SuperTuscan movement: Sassicaia and Tignanello.
Sassicaia was the first to break from traditional Italian wine rules, creating a new category of wine. Its name, meaning "stony ground," refers to the rocky terrain of Bolgheri where the vineyards are located. This terrain is similar to the Graves region in Bordeaux, which inspired the creation of Sassicaia. The unique terroir gives the wine its distinctive character, making it a pioneer in the world of Super Tuscans.
Tignanello, produced by the Antinori family, followed closely behind. Introduced in 1971, it was revolutionary for blending Sangiovese with non-traditional grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Tignanello was also one of the first wines in Tuscany to bypass the strict regulations of the Chianti Classico DOCG by eliminating white grapes from its blend and aging the wine in small French oak barrels. This bold innovation helped define the Super Tuscan category and changed the Italian wine industry forever.
Together, Sassicaia and Tignanello paved the way for a new era of Italian winemaking, blending tradition with innovation to create wines that have achieved international acclaim.
Supertuscan wines, with their rich, complex flavors and robust structure, are ideally paired with equally bold and flavorful dishes. They complement grilled or roasted meats like steak, lamb, or wild game, where the wine’s tannins balance the richness of the meat. Supertuscans also pair well with hearty Italian dishes.
Supertuscan wines are not only a testament to Tuscany's innovative spirit but also a perfect reflection of the region's rich culinary traditions. Tuscany’s cuisine is celebrated for its simplicity, focusing on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and time-honored recipes that showcase the essence of each dish. From rustic, hearty fare like wild boar stew and ribollita to refined dishes such as bistecca alla Fiorentina, Tuscan cuisine offers an ideal match for the bold, complex flavors of Supertuscan wines. The synergy between the food and wine of this region creates a dining experience that is both authentic and memorable, highlighting the best of Tuscany's gastronomic heritage.
Bistecca alla Fiorentina
The rich, fatty flavors of this classic Tuscan T-bone steak are a perfect match for the tannic structure and bold flavors of a Super Tuscan. The wine's acidity also cuts through the richness of the meat.
Pappardelle al Cinghiale
Aged Pecorino Cheese
Aged Pecorino, with its nutty and slightly salty profile, enhances the wine's complexity. The wine’s fruit and spice notes complement the cheese, creating a balanced and enjoyable pairing.
Osso buco
The rich, braised flavors of this veal shank, often accompanied by a gremolata (lemon zest, garlic, and parsley), match the depth of a Super Tuscan. The wine’s acidity helps balance the dish's richness.
Risotto ai Funghi
The earthy flavors of mushrooms, especially when used in a creamy risotto, pair wonderfully with the complex, earthy notes found in many Super Tuscans. The wine’s acidity cuts through the creaminess of the risotto, while its tannins add depth to the pairing.
Dark Chocolate Cake
The bitterness and richness of dark chocolate complement the robust tannins and fruit-forward notes of a Super Tuscan. The wine’s deep red fruit flavors, often with hints of spice and sometimes a touch of oak, match well with the intense flavor of the chocolate.
Top 4 Wine Experiences
Here are our top 4 recommendations for wine experiences for Supertuscan, carefully selected by Winedering, the world's most popular wine and food experiences marketplace. These experiences, booked by thousands of customers, are the ones we highly recommend for creating unforgettable moments.
Supertuscan Wine & Olive Oil Experience at Diadema Winery a Stone's Throw Away from Florence
At Diadema Winery, you can taste five exquisite Supertuscan wines, which reflect the innovation and quality that define this category. Additionally, the experience includes a tasting of their award-winning extra virgin olive oil, giving you a full appreciation of Tuscany's culinary heritage. This experience is perfect for those looking to explore the world of Supertuscan wines while enjoying the scenic beauty of Tuscany's countryside, all within a short distance from the historic city of Florence.
Experience type: Vineyard, cellar and olive mill visit & tasting
Ideal for: couples, friends, families
Blend Master: Make your own Supertuscan Blend wine in the Heart of Florence
Experience the art of winemaking firsthand with the Blend Master activity in Florence. This unique experience allows you to step into the shoes of a winemaker and create your own Supertuscan blend. Set in the vibrant heart of Florence, this workshop offers an immersive journey into the world of Tuscan wines. You'll learn about the different grape varieties used in Supertuscan wines, including Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, and how they contribute to the wine's character. Guided by expert enologists, you'll have the opportunity to blend these varietals according to your taste preferences. This hands-on experience not only deepens your understanding of winemaking but also allows you to take home a bottle of your custom blend—a perfect souvenir from Tuscany.
Experience type: Winemaking workshop
Ideal for: only for adults, groups of 4 people
Organic Chianti & Supertuscans Experience at Montechiaro Estate
Discover the essence of Tuscany at Montechiaro Estate with an immersive experience in the organic winemaking. Your visit begins with a tour of the estate's cellar and olive mill, where you’ll learn about the processes involved in producing organic wines and extra virgin olive oil. Following the tour, you’ll enjoy a tasting of four exquisite organic wines, including both Chianti and Supertuscan varieties. The tasting is complemented by a selection of local delicacies such as bruschetta, pecorino cheese, salame, and a taste of truffle sauces and ragout.
Experience type: Cellar, olive mill visit & tasting
Ideal for: Couples, friends, groups of up to 12 people
Vertical Wine Tasting of Supertuscan "Ghiaie della Furba" at Capezzana Winery
Immerse yourself in the rich history and tradition of Tuscan winemaking with an overnight stay and wine tasting at Capezzana Winery. Your visit begins with a guided tour of the winery, where you'll explore the historic cellars and learn about the estate's longstanding commitment to producing exceptional wines. The highlight of your experience is a vertical tasting of four vintages of the renowned Supertuscan "Ghiaie della Furba," allowing you to appreciate the evolution of this iconic wine over time. Guests frequently praise the quality of the wines, the educational aspect of the tasting, and the serene beauty of the estate.
Experience type: Vineyard and cellar visit & tasting
Ideal for: Couples, friends, groups
Enjoy Wine Experiences in Tuscany
With detailed itineraries and insider tips, your adventure through Tuscany and SuperTuscan wine region will be both seamless and enriching.
Remember to take your time, enjoy the stunning views, and soak in the warm hospitality of the local winemakers and residents. Here's to many memorable wine experiences in Tuscany, that you can easily book online on Winedering.com, the best online wine tourism marketplace worldwide.
Buon viaggio and cheers to an unforgettable SuperTuscan adventure!