Contucci

Contucci: The Heart of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

Nestled in the historic center of Montepulciano, Tuscany, the Contucci family has crafted exceptional wines for over a millennium, earning their place as one of the founding fathers of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. With a legacy dating back to the 11th century, their dedication to tradition, quality, and the unique terroir of Montepulciano has made Contucci a cornerstone of Tuscan winemaking, producing wines that embody elegance, heritage, and prestige.

A Storied Family Legacy

The Contucci family’s winemaking roots trace back to at least 1008, making them one of Montepulciano’s oldest lineages. By 1773, their wines were documented as “noble,” destined for the tables of aristocracy, cementing their role in elevating Vino Nobile di Montepulciano to global acclaim. Operating across 41 generations, the family’s Palazzo Contucci, designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Elder in the 16th century and adorned with frescoes by Andrea Pozzo, once housed Pope Julius III and Grand Duke Ferdinand I. Today, family members like Alamanno, Damiano, and Andrea Contucci personally oversee agronomic and winemaking operations, ensuring their heritage thrives.

Historic Cellars in Montepulciano’s Walls

Contucci’s ancient cellars, built between the 11th and 13th centuries within Montepulciano’s narrowest city walls, are a testament to their historical significance. These cellars, located beneath the Palazzo Contucci in Piazza Grande, are celebrated as the only fully operational historic winery within the city’s monumental center. While other historic wineries like Cantina de’ Ricci and Crociani also operate in the town center, Contucci’s cellars are uniquely integrated into the ancient walls, making them a singular landmark for wine enthusiasts. Visitors can explore these 900-year-old cellars, where wines age in French and Slavonian oak barrels, blending tradition with modern precision.

Terroir: The Soul of Montepulciano

Contucci’s 170-hectare estate includes 22.5 hectares of vineyards, with 15 dedicated to Vino Nobile. Located on Pliocene soils of clay and sand at 350–450 meters elevation, the vineyards—spread across sites like Pietra Rossa and Mulinvecchio—benefit from southeast exposure and a microclimate ideal for native grapes. Prugnolo Gentile (Sangiovese, 80%) dominates, blended with Canaiolo Nero, Colorino, and Mammolo, grown using sustainable spurred cordon techniques with a density of 4,500–5,000 vines per hectare. Manual harvesting and meticulous selection ensure grapes of exceptional quality, reflecting Montepulciano’s rich terroir.