Nestled beneath the iconic Mount Vesuvius, Ercolano Vineyards offers a tantalizing wine tasting and brunch experience that transports visitors to the heart of Italy’s culinary heritage. Guests can explore the lush terraced vineyards, discover the secrets of the natural lava stone cellar, and savor the exquisite Vesuvius Lacryma Christi wines paired with a curated selection of local delicacies. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a food lover, this immersive experience promises to delight the senses and leave you yearning for more. Prepare to embark on a journey that will showcase the region’s rich viticultural and gastronomic traditions.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Wine Tours In Italy.
Key Points
- Ercolano Vineyards offers a 2-hour wine tasting and brunch experience, featuring Lacryma Christi white, red, and sparkling varietals, priced at $61.52 per person.
- The guided tour includes breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples and exploration of a natural lava stone cellar.
- The tasting platter comprises local delicacies such as cured meats, cheeses, bruschettas, and Neapolitan taralli.
- The experience is suitable for both Italian and English speakers and involves moderate walking on uneven terrain.
- Customer reviews praise the historical significance of the winery, scenic vineyards, and informative cellar visit, with a 5/5 rating.
Activity Overview
Ercolano Vineyards offers a wine tasting and brunch experience that immerses visitors in the rich winemaking heritage of the Vesuvius region.
The 2-hour activity is priced from $61.52 per person and is available in Italian and English.
Guests can enjoy a guided tour of the terraced vineyards overlooking the Gulf of Naples, followed by a visit to the natural lava stone cellar.
The wine tasting includes Vesuvius Lacryma Christi white, red, and extra-dry rosé sparkling varietals.
The brunch platter features local cured meats, cheeses, olives, olive pâté, casatiello, and bruschetta.
Visitors can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Italy.
Itinerary Highlights
The guided tour of the terraced vineyards offers breathtaking vistas overlooking the Gulf of Naples.
Visitors will also explore the natural lava stone cellar and enjoy a tasting of Vesuvius Lacryma Christi wines – white, red, and extra dry rosé sparkling.
The tasting platter features:
- 3 types of cured meats (ham, salami, coppa)
- 2 cheeses (spicy, sweet)
- Local olives, handmade olive pâté, and casatiello (leavened donut with cured meats and cheeses)
- Bruschettas with Vesuvius cherry tomatoes, aubergines in oil, and friggitelli
- Sweet Neapolitan taralli
Meeting Point and Information
Conveniently located at Contrada Croce dei Monti, 22 in Ercolano, the meeting point can be easily accessed via Google Maps.
This wine tasting and brunch experience isn’t suitable for individuals with animal or food allergies. Pets and smoking are also not allowed.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes for the moderate walking involved during the guided tour of the terraced vineyards. Be prepared for the weather conditions and dress accordingly.
Recommendations and Preparation
Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes for the moderate walking involved during the guided tour of the terraced vineyards.
It’s also important to dress appropriately based on weather conditions. The tour includes visiting the natural lava stone cellar, so checking the forecast and preparing accordingly is recommended.
Plus, guests should be prepared for:
- Walking along uneven terrain
- Navigating steps and inclines
- Spending time outdoors, subject to sun exposure
- Engaging in tastings of several wine varieties
- Enjoying a tasting platter of local specialties
Following these simple preparations will ensure guests have a comfortable and memorable experience at the Ercolano vineyards.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
Ercolano Vineyards’ wine tasting and brunch experience has earned a stellar 5/5 rating based on a single customer review.
The reviewer, who brought their wine-skeptic husband, raved about the amazing history of the winery. Despite not being a wine drinker, the husband thoroughly enjoyed the tour, highlighting the broad appeal of this experience.
Customers commend the combination of the scenic vineyards, informative cellar visit, and delectable local cuisine, making it a highly recommended outing.
With positive feedback and a conveniently located meeting point, this wine tasting and brunch is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive culinary and viticultural experience in the heart of Ercolano.
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Guided Tour of Vineyards
Perched atop the terraced vineyards, the guided tour offers breathtaking vistas overlooking the Gulf of Naples.
As you stroll through the rows of vines, you’ll learn about the region’s rich winemaking history and the unique microclimates that shape the flavors of the Lacryma Christi wines.
The tour includes:
- Meandering through the lush, verdant vineyard terraces
- Discovering the centuries-old cultivation techniques
- Exploring the natural lava stone cellar
- Admiring the panoramic views of the Vesuvius volcano
- Learning about the sustainable and eco-friendly practices
This immersive experience provides a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and natural beauty of the Ercolano vineyards.
Tasting Cellar Experience
After the guided tour, guests head to the natural lava stone cellar for a tasting of the Vesuvius Lacryma Christi wines.
In the cool, atmospheric cellar, they’ll sample the white, red, and extra-dry rosé sparkling varietals.
The tasting is accompanied by a platter of local delicacies – three cured meats, two cheeses, olives, handmade olive pâté, and the regional casatiello bread.
Visitors also enjoy bruschettas topped with Vesuvius cherry tomatoes, roasted eggplant, and friggitelli peppers.
To end on a sweet note, there are Neapolitan taralli pastries.
The tasting provides a comprehensive sensory experience, showcasing the winery’s exceptional products and the region’s culinary traditions.
Local Cuisine and Pairings
What makes the local cuisine and pairings at Ercolano Vineyards so special? The tasting experience is elevated by a carefully curated selection of regional delicacies.
Guests enjoy:
- 3 types of cured meats, including savory ham, spicy salami, and robust coppa
- 2 artisanal cheeses, one spicy and one sweet, to complement the wine flavors
- Bruschettas topped with Vesuvius cherry tomatoes, zesty aubergines, and crisp friggitelli peppers
- Handmade olive pâté and classic Neapolitan taralli, providing a delightful contrast to the wines
- The signature casatiello, a leavened donut filled with cured meats and cheeses, offering a unique local twist.
These expertly paired local delicacies elevate the wine tasting experience, immersing guests in the rich culinary traditions of the Ercolano region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Wine Tasting Event?
The dress code for the wine tasting event is casual. The recommendations advise wearing comfortable shoes for walking and dressing appropriately based on the weather conditions.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Accommodations?
The event is not suitable for those with animal or food allergies. Special dietary accommodations are not provided. Guests should inform the organizers of any dietary restrictions when booking the experience.
How Do I Get to the Starting Location From the Nearest Town or City?
To get to the starting location from the nearest town or city, take a taxi or public transportation. Directions are provided on Google Maps, which show the exact meeting point location – Contrada Croce dei Monti, 22 in Ercolano.
Can I Purchase Any of the Wines or Local Products On-Site?
Yes, visitors can purchase the wines and local products tasted during the tour. The winery offers on-site sales, allowing guests to take home their favorite Vesuvius Lacryma Christi wines and regional specialties like cured meats, cheeses, and olive products.
Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Experience?
According to the activity overview, there doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the duration of the experience. The tour and tasting are fixed at 2 hours. However, visitors may be able to purchase wines or local products on-site after the scheduled activities conclude.
Recap
Ercolano Vineyards offers a captivating wine tasting and brunch experience that showcases the region’s viticultural heritage. Guests can enjoy the stunning natural landscapes, explore the vineyards and cellar, and savor the finest local delicacies paired with the acclaimed Vesuvius Lacryma Christi wines. This unforgettable experience is a must-visit for any wine enthusiast or food lover exploring the Gulf of Naples.
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