Experience the Palio: A Journey Through Tuscany
When Brunello Meets the Palio: A Day with Champions at Poggio Antico
Many years ago on one of my trips through Tuscany, I happened to stay a night in Siena, a stone’s throw from the Palio race course. Unfortunately, there was no racing going on but it was still thrilling to imagine the horses racing past in the centre of the city. If you’ve spent any time in Tuscany, you know that the Palio di Siena isn’t just a horse race—it’s a heartbeat. And when that heartbeat syncs up with the rhythm of a world-class winery, something rather magical happens.
Last summer, on August 16, 2025, a horse named Anda e Bola thundered across the finish line to claim victory at the Palio. For the team at Poggio Antico, this wasn’t just a win for the history books; it was personal. The champion horse is co-owned by Marcel van Poecke, the owner of the estate. To celebrate, they’ve launched the Palio Edition Experience, and it’s a far cry from your average “sip and swirl” winery tour.
From Stable to Cellar: The Experience
This is a half-day deep dive into the soul of Siena. Forget the tourist traps; this itinerary is about as “insider” as it gets.
- Behind the Scenes at Scuderia Milani: The day kicks off where the magic begins—at the stables. You get an intimate look at where Anda e Bola is trained. It’s a rare chance to see the discipline and care that goes into prepping a Palio champion.
- A Tuscan Long Lunch: You can’t talk about heritage without talking about the table. The experience moves into a lunch featuring local specialties that are unapologetically Tuscan.
- The Main Event at Poggio Antico: The day winds down at the estate itself. We’re talking a private tour and a guided tasting of six wines. It’s a masterclass in Sangiovese elegance, showcasing exactly why Poggio Antico’s high-altitude terroir is so coveted.
More Than Just a Bottle
For General Manager Pier Giuseppe D’Alessandro, this project is about more than just celebrating a trophy.
“Dedicating an experience to the victory of Anda e Bola is an expression of identity,” he says. “The Palio embodies discipline, respect, and local pride—values that resonate with our philosophy.”
It’s clear that for Poggio Antico, Brunello is the ambassador, but the land and its culture are the true stars of the show.
The 2021 “Palio Edition” Brunello
Of course, you can’t have a celebration without a special bottle. To mark the win, they’ve released a limited-edition Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino 2021 with a commemorative label.
The 2021 vintage is already being whispered about as a bit of a classic—perfectly balanced with that signature Montalcino power. Adding the spirit of the Palio to the bottle? That’s just the cherry (or should I say, the Sangiovese grape) on top.
The Poggio Antico Model
Perched on some of the highest hills in the appellation (reaching up to 620 meters), Poggio Antico isn’t just resting on its laurels. Under the guidance of Pippo D’Alessandro, they are pioneering the “Poggio Antico Model.” It’s a forward-thinking approach to viticulture that uses research and innovation to ensure these vineyards thrive for generations to come, regardless of what the climate throws at them.
It’s wine with a soul, a history, and a very fast horse. What’s not to love? For more information and to book, visit their website www.poggioantico.com