Ercolani Cellars - "Underground City" and Museum — Restaurant in Unione dei Comuni Valdichiana Senese

My friends and I recently had the pleasure of embarking on a wine tasting journey guided by an exceptional host, and it's an experience worth raving about! Our guide, Melanie, was not only knowledgeable but also incredibly passionate about wine. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and she effortlessly transported us into the intricate world of winemaking and appreciation. Throughout the tasting, Melanie expertly guided us through each pour, skillfully unraveling the unique characteristics and stories behind every bottle.

The selection of wines was exquisite. We savored every sip, delighting in the nuanced flavors and aromas that danced across our palates.

What truly set this experience apart was Melanie's personalized touch. Her warm demeanor and genuine hospitality made us feel right at home, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere that enhanced our enjoyment.

Not only did we leave with a newfound appreciation for wine, but we also left with cherished memories and a desire to return. Our time spent with Melanie was nothing short of magical, and we can't wait to embark on another tasting adventure with her in the future.

If you're looking for an unforgettable wine tasting experience, look no further than Ercolani, where exceptional wines and impeccable service await. And be sure to request Melanie as your guide for an experience that will exceed all expectations. Cheers to unforgettable moments and remarkable wines!

P.S. We bought about 20 bottles of wine at...

Inside the city walls of Montepulciano, you’ll find Cantina Ercolani. The shopkeepers running the shop and cantina will welcome you in so that you can tour the città sotterranea (the underground city)!

It's filled with massive maze of subterranean caves, chambers, tunnels and secret passageways that were part of an ancient underground network and escape route. It was also once used to covertly bring wine into the cellars from the neighboring vineyards. You’ll see aging wines, medieval armor, cisterns, and more!

Cantina Ercolani is perfect if you're traveling on a budget because tours and tastings are free! You can sign up ahead of time or show up day of and they'll slot you in on their next available time slot. There's no pressure to buy from their wine shop, however many take advantage of their free shipping worldwide since they specialize in direct sales vice using a distributor. They also stock a lot of local gourmet foods, including cheeses, truffles and pastas.

Romina was our guide and she was super knowledgeable and...

The underground wine tasting with Agustin at Ercolani was absolutely unforgettable! From the moment we stepped into the historic cellars, Agustin brought the experience to life with his passion, knowledge, and warmth. He guided us through the rich history of Montepulciano and the Ercolani family, weaving in fascinating stories that made the visit feel truly special.

The wines themselves were incredible, each one carefully explained and paired with delicious local specialties that elevated the flavors even more. The underground tunnels and cellars were breathtaking, and Agustin made sure we didn’t just see them, but truly understood and appreciated their significance.

What really stood out was how personal and engaging Agustin made the whole experience. It never felt rushed; instead, it felt like being welcomed into a tradition that has been cherished for generations.

If you’re visiting Montepulciano, do not miss this! Thank you, Agustin, for making our visit one of the highlights...