Montalcino, an enchanting Tuscan village world-renowned for its wine, also boasts a rich and flavorful culinary tradition. If you're planning a visit, prepare for a journey into the authentic tastes of this land. In this article, we'll guide you through the typical dishes of Montalcino and the best pairings with Brunello di Montalcino.
The typical dishes of Montalcino
The cuisine of Montalcino is based on simple and genuine ingredients, often linked to farming traditions. Among the first courses, pici are a true institution. This handmade fresh pasta, similar to thick spaghetti, is served with flavorful sauces such as wild boar ragù or garlic sauce (sugo all'aglione). Another typical dish is ribollita, a rustic soup made with stale bread, kale, and beans—perfect for the colder seasons. As for main courses, meat-based dishes take center stage, such as stewed wild boar or stufato alla Sangiovannese. The latter, named after its origin in San Giovanni Valdarno, is made with beef and prepared with a variety of spices, making it a flavorful and delectable dish. Naturally, Montalcino's cuisine wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the traditional cured meats, such as finocchiona or capocollo, and crostini al fegatello, often paired with aged Tuscan pecorino cheese.
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What to eat with Brunello di Montalcino
Brunello di Montalcino is an elegant and structured wine, perfect for complementing rich and hearty dishes. First courses with meat-based sauces, such as pici with wild boar ragù, find an ideal pairing in Brunello due to the wine's complexity and tannins. Tuscan soups, enriched with extra virgin olive oil and seasonal vegetables, also pair well with Brunello, especially in its softer vintages. Regarding main courses, Brunello shines when paired with red meat and wild boar. Fiorentina steak and wild boar stew are both excellent choices. Aged cheeses, such as Tuscan pecorino, enhance the spicy and fruity notes of Brunello, creating an unforgettable combination of flavors.
Where to eat in Montalcino
To savor the best traditional dishes, Montalcino offers various dining options. The restaurants
Il Passaggio and
Il Giglio offer refined cuisine, perfect for those seeking an elegant gastronomic experience with dishes that highlight local products, featuring a menu tailored to seasonal ingredients. For a more rustic and family-friendly atmosphere, the trattoria
Il Pozzo and the farm-to-table restaurant
Il Pelo nell’Uovo are the ideal choices. With their traditional recipes prepared with genuine, locally-sourced ingredients, you can enjoy an authentic and simple experience. For a more creative and sophisticated dining experience, don’t miss the opportunity to dine at
Boccon Divino: this restaurant offers traditional dishes with a creative twist, paired with excellent wine and breathtaking views of the Val d'Orcia. For a more informal yet flavorful meal,
The Gusti Bus is a must-visit: here, street food meets Tuscan flavors, offering delicious sandwiches accompanied by craft beers—perfect for a tasty lunch break or an outdoor dinner. To end on a sweet note, don’t miss the
Gelateria del Corso, famous for its Brunello-flavored gelato and its 100% natural production, which also includes gluten-free and vegan options.
Discover the authentic flavors of Montalcino
Montalcino is an unparalleled destination for food and wine lovers. Every dish tells a story of tradition and passion, and every sip of Brunello enhances its flavors. If you’re planning a trip to this wonderful land, let yourself be captivated by its cuisine and perfect pairings. Visit
Enjoy Montalcino for more information or tips on where to
eat.