Florence: Wine Tasting at a Vineyard With a Local Winemaker

If you’re dreaming of sipping wine amid the rolling hills of Tuscany, this tour offers a wonderful glimpse into the art of winemaking with a personal touch. While it’s not a full-blown wine tour of the Chianti region, it provides a more intimate, behind-the-scenes experience that focuses on a single family-operated vineyard just 20 km from Florence. It’s perfect for wine lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a relaxed taste of authentic Tuscany without the crowds.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are the opportunity to learn about the entire winemaking process directly from a local winemaker and the chance to sample wine straight from the barrels. These details make the experience special, providing insights you simply won’t get in larger, more commercial wineries. That said, one consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there—something to keep in mind if you’re relying on public transit or group transfers.

This tour is especially well-suited for those who want an authentic, relaxed wine tasting in a scenic setting—ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers eager for a hands-on experience that’s more than just a tasting flight. If you’re looking for a deep dive into Tuscan wine production rather than just sipping in a tasting room, this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Guided tour of a family-owned vineyard with direct insights from a local winemaker.
• Educational Element: Learn about the entire winemaking process, from vine to cork.
• Unique Tasting: Sample wines directly from the vat and barrels, not just bottles on a shelf.
• Scenic Setting: Enjoy walking through vineyards and exploring the cellar where wine is stored and aged.
• Customization & Flexibility: The tour offers flexibility with booking and cancellation policies, allowing you to plan with confidence.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly and offered in multiple languages, including Italian, English, and German.

This tour offers a window into the heart of Tuscany’s winemaking, located in the scenic countryside just a short drive from Florence. It’s hosted by Podere dellAnselmo di Fabrizio Forconi, a family-run operation that emphasizes a personal approach to wine production.

The experience generally lasts about a day, with each starting time being available upon check-in. Remember, transportation isn’t included, so you might want to arrange a taxi, public transit, or a private driver to reach the vineyard. Once there, the tour begins at a designated meeting point—horse stables in front of the ingannamatti vines—and concludes back at the same spot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Walking through the vineyards is the first step, where you’ll learn about the different grape varieties and see the lush landscapes that produce the grapes used in the wines. The guide or host will share insights into the specific techniques and secrets that make their wines special—something that adds great value for those interested in artisanal, small-batch production.

Next, you’ll visit the cellar, where wine is stored, fermented, and aged. This part of the experience offers a peek into the technical side of winemaking. You’ll hear about the various techniques used—be it aging in barrels or other methods—and how history and tradition influence the process.

The highlight comes in the tasting room, where the real fun begins. Here, you’ll taste wines straight from the barrel and vats, providing a flavor profile that’s fresh and unfiltered by bottling. The host will teach you how to identify different flavors and aromas, turning tasting into an educational adventure. You’ll also enjoy a bottle of wine in the cozy tasting room, often paired with local food, though this isn’t included in the tour price.

Authentic insights from reviews note that the experience is relaxed and informative, with many travelers appreciating the opportunity to ask questions and learn directly from someone passionate about their craft. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the host explained the process, making everything simple and fun,” highlighting the friendly, approachable atmosphere.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike larger group tours, this experience emphasizes personalized attention and authenticity. The small group size or private nature of this tour means you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd. Plus, the fact that you taste wine straight from the barrels adds a layer of uniqueness that makes this tour memorable.

The vineyard itself is family-owned and operated, which means you’re supporting small-scale, sustainable agriculture. This also often translates into more genuine stories and a stronger connection to the land and tradition—an aspect many wine enthusiasts cherish.

The Value of the Experience

At its price point, this tour offers great value for those interested in more than just a standard tasting flight. The inclusion of a guided vineyard walk, cellar visit, and barrel tasting means you’re gaining insight into the full production cycle. It’s a hands-on, educational experience that complements any trip to Florence, especially for those who want to see and taste a more authentic side of Tuscany.

The tour is described as suitable for all interested guests, regardless of wine knowledge. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a casual sipper, you’ll find value in the opportunity to expand your understanding of wine and enjoy a scenic, peaceful setting far from urban noise.

Practical Considerations

While the experience is rich and engaging, bear in mind that transportation isn’t included. You should plan how to get there in advance—whether by rental car, taxi, or with a group transfer if available. The meeting point is accessible, and the tour is wheelchair friendly, making it inclusive for many travelers.

The tour lasts about a day, with flexible start times depending on availability. Since bookings require advance reservation, it’s wise to secure your spot early, especially during peak travel seasons.

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Final Thoughts

This small-scale, hands-on wine tasting tour near Florence offers a rare chance to connect with local Tuscany winemakers and their craft. It’s an excellent choice for those who value authenticity, education, and scenic beauty over large group experiences. The opportunity to taste wine directly from the barrels and learn about the entire process from vine to cork makes it both fun and informative.

If you’re after a meaningful, relaxed tour that allows you to feel more connected to Tuscany’s wine culture, this experience deserves serious consideration. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want to go beyond the typical tourist spots and savor a slice of Tuscan life.

Do I need to know about wine to enjoy this tour? No, the experience welcomes all levels of wine knowledge. The host explains everything clearly, making it accessible whether you’re a novice or a connoisseur.

Is transportation included? No, transportation to the vineyard is not included. Travelers should plan their own way of getting there, such as by car, taxi, or public transit.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many guests.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, and water are recommended to make the most of your day outdoors.

Are food pairings included? No, food is not included, except for the tasting of wines which may be paired with local snacks if offered.

This tour offers an enchanting taste of Tuscany’s winemaking tradition, all in a setting that’s both scenic and intimate. For those eager to learn, taste, and see behind the scenes of a small family winery, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Florence adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: