Although Tuscany's great wines—particularly the Super Tuscans—haven't yet reached the lofty heights of Bordeaux, they are certainly closing in.
This article isn't about the world's most expensive Tuscan wines but about the top 10 best value Tuscan wines. These selections offer exceptional quality without breaking the bank.
To determine the best value, we divided aggregated critic scores by the price, where a higher value indicates better value for money. All wines on this list score in the early-to-mid-90s and are priced between USD 24 and USD 51. Importantly, these wines are readily available and easy to find.
Best Value Tuscan Wines by Wine-Searcher
1. 2019 Fattoria La Massa 'La Massa' Toscana IGT
- Value Factor: 3.83
- Price: USD 24
- Score: 92
- Description: Located in Chianti Classico, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sangiovese has intense ruby hues and aromas of dark cherry and rose petals. La Massa offers exceptional value with its score-to-price ratio.
2. 2019 Fattoria Le Pupille Riserva
- Value Factor: 3.68
- Price: USD 25
- Score: 92
- Description: Known for its high-quality Sangiovese, this estate produces wines with notes of strawberries, dates, and citrus. The 2019 Riserva is balanced and elegant, offering excellent value.
3. 2021 Podere Sapaio 'Volpolo' Bolgheri
- Value Factor: 3.06
- Price: USD 30
- Score: 92
- Description: Founded in 1999, Podere Sapaio specializes in Bordeaux-style blends. The 'Volpolo' is characterized by dark berries, savory tones, and a spicy finish, making it a standout value.
4. 2019 Isole e Olena Chianti Classico DOCG
- Value Factor: 3.06
- Price: USD 30
- Score: 92
- Description: A key player in Chianti's quality revival, Isole e Olena's Chianti Classico is consistently praised for its rich flavors and balanced acidity.
5. 2018 Carpineto Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Riserva DOCG
- Value Factor: 3.06
- Price: USD 30
- Score: 92
- Description: Established in 1967, Carpineto focuses on sustainability and quality. This Vino Nobile di Montepulciano features notes of plums, blueberry, and Mediterranean herbs.
6. 2019 Barone Ricasoli 'Brolio Riserva'
- Value Factor: 3.06
- Price: USD 30
- Score: 92
- Description: One of the oldest wine estates, Barone Ricasoli produces this vibrant Sangiovese with notes of red prunes, strawberries, and cedar.
7. 2019 Piaggia – Vannucci 'Piaggia'
- Value Factor: 2.13
- Price: USD 44
- Score: 94
- Description: Founded in the 1970s, Piaggia's flagship wine boasts ripe berry fruits and complex flavors. Its impressive score and slightly higher price still make it a great value.
8. 2018 Tenuta Col d'Orcia Brunello di Montalcino DOCG
- Value Factor: 1.89
- Price: USD 48
- Score: 93
- Description: An organic estate since 2010, Col d'Orcia's Brunello offers aromas of cranberry, cherry, and orange peel, providing a luxurious tasting experience.
9. 2017 Podere Poggio Scalette 'Il Carbonaione' Alta Valle della Greve IGT
- Value Factor: 1.82
- Price: USD 51
- Score: 93
- Description: Established in 1991, Podere Poggio Scalette produces this Sangiovese with intense notes of dark cherry and cinnamon, offering a rich and smooth finish.
10. 2018 Castello di Ama 'San Lorenzo'
- Value Factor: 1.82
- Price: USD 51
- Score: 93
- Description: This restored estate combines art and winemaking, producing wines with flavors of plum, spiced berries, and mint. Despite the higher price, it offers great value.
Conclusion
These Tuscan wines, rich in craftsmanship, history, and lineage, offer exceptional value. Many are priced at USD 30 or less, making them accessible without sacrificing quality. Even those that cost a bit more bring an added dimension of cultural and artistic heritage, making them worth every penny. Whether you are a seasoned wine lover or a newcomer, these best value Tuscan wines are treasures worth exploring.
Source: Wine-Searcher