By now everyone knows that the Chianti region of Tuscany is famous for its world-renowned labels, but Pisa has its own Wine Road that is making a name for itself as well. The Strada del Vino delle Colline Pisane is about 70 kilometers of food and wine heaven through some of the most beautiful landscapes on the planet.

The Wines of Colle Pisane

Chianti DOCG was awarded its label in 1927 and is now produced in the provinces of Arezzo, Firenze, Pistoia, Pisa, Prato, and Siena. More specific to Pisa is the Bianco Pisano di San Torpè DOC, Montescudaio DOC, and Terre di Pisa Rosso and Sangiovese. What could accompany the perfect glass of wine better than high-quality olive oil, Pecorino Toscano cheese, and both white and black truffles? It’s all here, so if your mouth hasn’t started watering yet, it will by the end of this article!

San Miniato

Your journey begins (or ends) in San Miniato, a breathtakingly beautiful hilltop town along the Via Francigena. Along with its quaint historic center, its 13th-century tower known as the Rocca di Federico II, and various other churches and museums, San Miniato is probably most famous for its white truffles. In fact, every year* it draws thousands of people from all over Italy and abroad for its international truffle fair.

Peccioli

Our journey continues on to Peccioli, another lovely hilltop hamlet about 30 minutes from San Miniato. From afar, its unique bell tower introduces you to the 12th-century Church of San Verano in the historic center. In the immediate area, the tiny town of Ghizzano is especially famous for its vineyards and for a festival celebrating l’Olio Nuovo (or newly-harvested olive oil) in February*. If you are traveling with little ones then make sure and visit the outdoor park (Parco Preistorico) with gigantic dinosaur statues just outside Peccioli. For the adventurers in the group, there is also Pecciolo Avventura, a ropes course with something for all ages.

Terricciola

From Peccioli, head southwest just a few kilometers to the ancient Etruscan town of Terricciola. This is where the actual Strada del Vino association has its main office and also where numerous wine and food events happen throughout the year*. The Notte Bianca and the Calici di Stelle in the summertime and in celebration of the harvest, the Festa dell’Uva e del Vino in September.

Chianni

Head just a bit further south to Chianni, another Etruscan town with a rich history and picturesque historic center. In addition to wine, it’s also known for its annual wild boar festival* held in November. The neighboring village of Rivalto is known for its gigantic chestnuts called marroni with a festival* in October.

Lajatico

Last, but certainly not least on our tour is Lajatico, home of the world-famous tenor, Andrea Bocelli. In addition to visiting wineries, make sure to see his famous Teatro del Silenzio which is an outdoor amphitheater that can be visited any time of year without a ticket.

Remember, this is just one possible route along Pisa’s Wine Road!

So as they say in Italy when they clink their glasses together for a toast, “Cin cin!”

For more information, visit the Strada del Vino‘s official website.