Montepulciano is known for its excellent red wine. Wooden wine barrels are also used in an annual event that takes place on the last Sunday of August. Different neighbourhoods (contrade) challenge each other during the race for Bravio—a colourful banner with the city's patron.

The race is not a simple one though. Heavy barrels, 80 kilos each, are pushed by two strong men for about two kilometres, while the residents of the town and visitors cheer for their favourite teams.