Adventure brief
Gourmet Degustazione Verticale di Brunello
Taste the evolution of Brunello wines through vertical tastings paired with gourmet bites at Loacker Wine Estates in Montalcino, Tuscany. Discover biodynamic winemaking and sustainable grape growing in a unique experience.
Set in the iconic wine region of Montalcino, Tuscany, Loacker Wine Estates invites travelers to a distinct sensory journey through its acclaimed Brunello wines. This vertical degustazione—vertical tasting—offers an unparalleled look at how Brunello evolves year after year. Each carefully selected vintage is paired with gourmet snacks designed to elevate the tasting notes, creating an experience that cuts through the ordinary and engages palate and mind alike.
Montalcino is renowned for its distinctive terroir, featuring clay-calcareous soils and gentle rolling hills that benefit from the warm Mediterranean climate moderated by the nearby Tyrrhenian Sea. These conditions give Brunello di Montalcino its famed structure and deep complexity. Loacker’s commitment to biodynamic viticulture adds another layer of interest; their sustainable farming principles enhance soil health and vineyard vitality, producing wines that express both the land and careful stewardship.
Guests can choose from three tiers of tasting: from core aged Brunelli to rare vintages aged 15–20 years, or focused verticals highlighting grapes from a single vineyard cru. A guided walk through the vineyards and subterranean cellar accompanies the tasting on select bookings, providing hands-on insight into the estate’s processes and philosophy. Unlike typical wine tours, the Loacker degustazione balances indulgence with education, offering an immersive connection to Tuscany’s heritage and nature-driven winemaking.
The experience caters to both seasoned oenophiles and curious novices, making it a standout destination for those who seek quality, sustainability, and the layered narratives enclosed in every bottle. This is more than just a tasting; it’s an invitation to savor history, nature, and innovation in one of Italy’s most storied wine landscapes.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Book in advanceessential
Vertical tastings with rare vintages are limited; reserve early to secure your spot.
- 02Arrive soberessential
Arriving with a clear palate ensures you perceive the nuanced differences between vintages.
- 03Wear comfortable shoesinfo
The optional vineyard and cellar tour involves walking on uneven terrain and stairs.
- 04Plan for transportationwarning
Consider a designated driver or local transport, as tasting several wines can impair driving ability.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable walking shoes
Needed for optional vineyard and cellar tours on uneven terrain.
EssentialLight jacket or sweater
Keeps you warm during cooler mornings or cellar visits.
fall|winter|springEssentialNotebook or tasting journal
Helpful for recording tasting notes and vintage details.
Water bottle
Staying hydrated enhances your tasting experience.
summer|spring|fallEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Nearby hilltop viewpoints overlooking the Val d'Orcia landscape, Rustic local trattorias offering traditional Tuscan cuisine
Local fauna
Local songbirds such as nightingales and robins, Small mammals like European hares that roam vineyard edges
Historic heritage
Montalcino’s history as a premium wine region dates back to the Middle Ages, with Brunello di Montalcino officially recognized as a DOCG in 1980.
Mindful exploration
Loacker’s biodynamic approach aims to preserve soil vitality and biodiversity, reflecting a long-term commitment to sustainable viticulture.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Overlooking vineyards from the estate terraces, Inside the historic underground cellar, Walking paths along vineyard rows
- Subjects
- Terraced vineyards, Aging wine barrels, Rustic Tuscan architecture
- Best times
- Golden hour, late afternoon, early morning
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
What is a vertical tasting?
A vertical tasting features different vintages of the same wine, allowing you to compare how the wine ages and evolves over time.
Is the vineyard tour included?
The vineyard and cellar tour is optional and can be added to your tasting booking for a more in-depth experience.
Are non-alcoholic options available?
Yes, there is a ticket option for adults who prefer not to consume wine, allowing everyone to join the tasting environment.
How long does the tasting last?
The tasting alone runs about 1 hour and 45 minutes; with the guided tour, it can last up to 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Are food pairings included?
Each wine is paired with specially prepared gourmet snacks crafted to highlight the wine’s characteristics.
Is Loacker Wine Estates committed to sustainability?
Yes, they follow biodynamic farming practices that focus on ecological balance and vineyard health.