Today we visited Montepulciano and Pienza. The first noted for its Vino Nobile and the second for its Pecorino cheese.
Montepulciano and Fortified Wall
Montepulciano is by far the larger of the two and sits on top of a steep hill that allows for wonderful views of the countryside from several panoramic viewpoints. The town’s architecture is a mixture of its past history and has been heavily influenced by its two main city state rulers, Siena and Florence. However, the most popular activity is visiting the many wine merchants who offer up their version of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a hearty red wine that is made from the grapes of the surrounding vineyards. Our favorite experience was at the Contucci winery located in the Contucci Palace in the Piazza Grande as we were able to go on a tour of the wine cellars located in their 13th Century vaults.
Rita enjoying the "low calorie" local treat Panforte with her cappucino
Geoff in awe of the Oak barrelled wine in the 13th Century CellarsPienza is a really pretty little hill town that offers great views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside and lots of tight little lanes with houses decorated with lots of potted plants. Pienza’s claim to fame is Pope Pius ll was born here in the 1400’s and their famous sheep cheese, Pecorino.
Rita on the steps of a pretty street in Pienza
Shop window in Pienza showcasing the local Pecorino cheese along with wild Boer salami
Rita Soaking up the Sun on the Pienza Ramparts
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