According to a 2022 Unione Italiana Vini (Italian Wine Union) report, an estimated 255,000 cantinas are found throughout the boot. Quite honestly, anyone—from the big names to humble roadside shops—will deliver that dreamy dolce vita combo of beautiful views, tasty homecooked meals, and tipsy tastings. But for every gaggle of traditional wineries (yes, “dreamy” is the standard here in Italy), a handful deserves special recognition.

Whether they’re situated in particularly arresting locations or boast examples of innovative Italian architecture, they’re so above the norm they might even be worth planning your trip around. It’ll come as no surprise that many of these award-winning cantinas are in Tuscany, but you’ll also find that some of these stunners are located in the volcanic South and the mountainous North.