Florence: Brunello Wine Tour with Lunch at the Winery

If you’re dreaming of a day spent wandering through rolling hills dotted with vineyards, savoring exquisite wines, and enjoying authentic Tuscan cuisine, then the Brunello Wine Tour from Florence might just be your perfect escape. This carefully curated experience promises more than just wine tasting; it offers a chance to connect with family-run estates, learn about biodynamic practices, and soak in some of Italy’s most scenic landscapes—all in a small group limited to eight curious wine lovers.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are its focus on family-owned, organic wineries and the opportunity to enjoy a farm-to-table lunch with panoramic vineyard views. Both experiences highlight the region’s commitment to tradition and sustainability, which we find increasingly important for an authentic journey. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the full-day commitment—9 hours can feel long if you’re not used to such immersive excursions, especially with the driving involved. Nonetheless, this tour suits travelers eager to deepen their appreciation of Brunello di Montalcino and who enjoy intimate, educational experiences with expert guides.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Visits to three organic, family-owned wineries provide insight into sustainable and traditional winemaking practices.
• Expert-guided tours and tastings deepen understanding of Brunello and its unique terroir.
• A farm-to-table, organic lunch paired with wine brings the region’s culinary traditions into focus.
• The scenic drives and views highlight Tuscany’s beautiful landscapes.
• The tour duration (9 hours) offers an in-depth experience, perfect for wine enthusiasts and those wanting to explore beyond Florence.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Taste of Tuscany: What the Tour Offers

This tour is designed for those looking for more than just a quick taste of Tuscany’s wine scene. The focus on family-owned wineries means you’ll experience the genuine craftsmanship passed down through generations, rather than commercialized production. This personal touch often results in more authentic conversations, deeper insights, and wines that truly reflect the terroir of Montalcino.

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Start at Albergo Croce di Malta: The tour kicks off from a convenient central Florence meeting point. Here, you’ll meet your guide, a certified sommelier who’s as passionate about Tuscan wines as they are about sharing the region’s stories. The luxury Mercedes van ensures a comfortable journey through some of Tuscany’s most iconic landscapes, with stops that let you take in the lush scenery and maybe even snap some photos.

First Stop – a Family-Owned Winery: Your day begins with a visit to a small, family-run estate. This is where you’ll get your first taste of Brunello’s secrets. Guided by the winemaker and a sommelier, you’ll walk through vineyards, learning how the unique soil, climate, and centuries of tradition influence the wine. The cellar tour reveals the artisanal process, making the tasting session more meaningful. As one reviewer put it, “Gabriele is a very attentive & pleasant guide,” which helps make the experience engaging and personable.

Midday – Biodynamic Winery and Lunch: The journey continues to a biodynamic estate, a term that can sound like a magical buzzword but here indicates a farm operating in harmony with nature. You’ll learn about biodynamic farming practices and taste wines crafted with respect for the environment. The highlight is the farm-to-table lunch with organic ingredients from the estate’s botanical garden, served with panoramic views of the vineyards and rolling hills. The combination of good food, great wine, and stunning scenery makes this a memorable highlight.

Afternoon – Biodiversity & Final Tasting: The last winery emphasizes preserving biodiversity and natural ecosystems. Here, you’ll walk among the vines, tour the cellar, and taste the estate’s Brunello and other wines. The guide will teach you how to evaluate wine quality, adding an educational layer that appeals both to novices and seasoned wine lovers. As one review mentions, “The focus on organic and biodynamic practices influences the quality of the wines,” making the tasting not just a sip but an insight into craftsmanship.

Return to Florence: After a full day of exploration and tasting, the comfortable van whisks you back to the starting point, with plenty of time to reflect on what you’ve experienced.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The small group size—no more than 8 participants—is a real advantage. It fosters a relaxed, engaging environment where questions are encouraged, and you feel more like a guest than a tourist. We also appreciate the expert guidance from a certified sommelier who can decode the complexities of Brunello and help you develop your palate.

The emphasis on family-owned, organic wineries offers a level of authenticity that mass-market tours often lack. You’re not just tasting wines; you’re understanding the passion and effort behind each bottle. The biodynamic approach showcased at two of the estates demonstrates a forward-thinking aspect of Tuscany’s wine scene, balancing tradition with sustainability.

The lunch experience is well thought out. Sitting amidst the vineyards, enjoying organic, farm-fresh ingredients paired with local wines, offers a genuine taste of Tuscany’s culinary culture. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a sensory journey.

Transportation and Timing

The tour’s 9-hour duration might seem hefty, but the comfortable Mercedes vehicle and scenic drives make the time pass quickly. The schedule includes sufficient time at each stop for tours and tastings—1.5 hours at the first and last wineries, 2 hours for lunch, and additional time for walking and exploring. The timing appears flexible, but it’s best to check specific start times when booking.

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Price and Value

While the tour is a bit on the longer side, it offers a thorough experience. Visiting three wineries, enjoying guided tours, and having a lunch paired with wine in a private, intimate setting offers great value for wine lovers wanting an immersive, authentic experience. The inclusion of transportation, expert guides, and a focus on organic practices elevates the price, but many find it worthwhile considering the depth of engagement.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Brunello di Montalcino beyond the bottle. It’s perfect for those who enjoy small-group settings and value sustainable and family-run businesses. If you love scenic drives and authentic Tuscan cuisine, this tour will tick all your boxes.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less structured day or are traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The full-day commitment and walking involved require a good level of comfort and stamina.

Final Thoughts

The Florence Brunello Wine Tour with lunch at the winery offers a rich, authentic slice of Tuscany’s wine and culinary culture. The focus on family-owned, organic wineries means you’re experiencing wines crafted with care, passion, and respect for the land. The small-group format ensures a personalized, engaging experience, where you can deepen your understanding and appreciation of Brunello di Montalcino.

While the day is packed and the length might be a lot for some, the payoff is a genuine connection to the region’s traditions, landscapes, and sustainable practices. For travelers eager to explore Tuscany’s wine heritage in a meaningful way, this tour hits the mark.

If you’re looking to step beyond the typical tourist fare and get a close-up look at how some of Italy’s most prized wines are made, this tour is a fantastic choice. Be prepared to taste, learn, and enjoy some of Tuscany’s finest scenery and flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 years due to the nature of wine tastings and the full-day schedule.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including transportation, winery visits, and lunch.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking through vineyards and wineries. Weather-appropriate clothing is also advised since you’ll be outdoors a good part of the day.

Is the tour in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English by a live guide.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes visits to three wineries, guided tours, tastings, a farm-to-table lunch, transportation, and the guide fee.

Is there a vegetarian option for lunch?
While specific dietary options aren’t explicitly mentioned, organic farm-to-table lunches often include vegetarian choices. It’s best to confirm at booking.

What if I have mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as walking and uneven surfaces are involved.

This detailed look at the Florence Brunello Wine Tour aims to help you decide if it fits your travel style. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or an adventurous foodie, the experience promises a memorable journey into Tuscany’s noble wine country.

You can check availability for your dates here: