Valpolicella is a renowned wine region in northern Italy, known for its rich, complex flavors. In the charming town of Fumane, visitors can indulge in a tasting of five exquisite vintage wines, including the renowned Amarone. This intimate 1.5-hour session offers an exclusive glimpse into the organic cultivation and centuries-old history of the region. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply curious about the art of winemaking, this experience promises to captivate your senses and leave you eager to uncover more about the renowned Valpolicella appellations.
Key Points
- An intimate 1.5-hour tasting of 5 vintage Valpolicella and Amarone wines, limited to 10 participants, with insights into organic cultivation and wine processing.
- Tasting includes a special low-sugar Recioto dessert wine paired with wild berries and almonds, showcasing the complex and delicate flavors.
- Optional food board featuring cured meats and artisanal cheeses available for an additional €10 to complement the wine tasting.
- Exploration of the ancient medieval courtyard and cellar in Valpolicella, with knowledgeable staff sharing information on the winemaking traditions.
- Easily accessible meeting point in a free courtyard parking, with convenient bus and walking options from the town center.
Experience Overview
The activity offers participants a 1.5-hour tasting of 5 distinct Valpolicella and Amarone vintage wines.
It’s limited to just 10 people, allowing for an intimate experience where English and Italian are spoken.
The tasting is wheelchair accessible, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.
Priced at $61.52 per person, the experience provides an opportunity to explore the nuances of these renowned Italian wines.
Tasting Details
Tasting a selection of 5 distinct Valpolicella and Amarone vintage wines, participants can expect to sample the Rosso Veronese IGT 2015, Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore DOC Organic 2018, Rosso Veronese IGT 2014 (3rd best wine in Italy), Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico DOCG 2015, and Recioto Classico della Valpolicella DOCG 2016.
The experience also includes a special tasting of a low-sugar Recioto with wild berries, almonds, and sour cherries. Participants can opt for a food board featuring cold cuts and local cheeses for an additional €10.
The tasting is accompanied by:
- Insights into the organic cultivation methods and wine processing
- Exploration of the history of the ancient medieval courtyard in Valpolicella
- Visits to the vineyards, cellar, and ancient tower.
Special Tasting
A special highlight of the wine tasting is the low-sugar Recioto, a unique dessert wine that tantalizes the palate with its blend of wild berries, toasted almonds, and sour cherries.
This Recioto is a departure from the traditional, syrupy-sweet version, offering a more nuanced and balanced flavor profile. Guests have the opportunity to savor this exceptional wine and appreciate its complexity and delicate sweetness.
The Recioto is an excellent way to conclude the tasting, providing a memorable and indulgent finale to the exploration of Valpolicella and Amarone wines.
Accompanied Appetizers
Along With the impressive wine selection, the tasting also includes an optional food board featuring a selection of cold cuts and local cheeses.
For an additional €10, participants can enjoy:
- A variety of cured meats, including prosciutto, salami, and mortadella.
- A selection of artisanal cheeses, such as aged Parmesan, creamy Gorgonzola, and tangy Pecorino.
- Freshly baked bread and crackers to accompany the charcuterie and cheese.
The food board provides a delightful complement to the diverse array of Valpolicella and Amarone wines, allowing participants to fully enjoy the flavors and traditions of the Valpolicella region.
Vineyard Tour
The tour of the vineyard offers visitors an immersive glimpse into the estate’s organic cultivation methods and rich winemaking history.
Guests explore the vineyards, learning about the estate’s focus on sustainable practices.
The tour then moves to the ancient cellar, where participants discover the intricate wine processing techniques passed down through generations.
The highlight is a visit to the medieval tower, providing a unique perspective on the property’s storied past.
Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable staff shares insights into the Valpolicella region’s winemaking traditions, leaving guests with a deeper appreciation for the care and craftsmanship behind each bottle.
Booking Process
Booking the Fumane wine tasting experience is straightforward. Visitors can reserve their spot without immediate payment, allowing them to secure their spot and pay later.
To check availability, they can view the starting times provided. The meeting point is in the free parking courtyard, making it easily accessible.
The key steps to booking are:
- Reserve your spot without immediate payment.
- Check the available starting times.
- Meet at the free parking courtyard.
It’s important to communicate any food intolerances in advance, as the tasting isn’t suitable for vegans, gluten, or lactose intolerant guests.
Customer Feedback
Customers have provided mixed feedback on the Fumane wine tasting experience. Based on one review, the overall rating is 4 out of 5 stars.
While the reviewer praised the welcoming winemaker and his wife, they noted that the promised charcuterie tasting wasn’t provided. Plus, they felt the €55 price tag was too expensive given the experience.
Despite these drawbacks, the tasting of 5 Valpolicella and Amarone vintage wines, along with the special low-sugar Recioto, seems to have been the highlight.
The vineyard tour, covering the organic cultivation methods and ancient history, also appears to have been an engaging part of the experience.
Getting There
Reaching the Fumane winery is straightforward. The meeting point is located in the free courtyard parking, making it easy for visitors to arrive and begin their wine tasting experience.
To get there:
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By car: The winery is a short drive from the center of Fumane, with ample parking available.
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By public transport: Buses run regularly to Fumane, and the winery is within a 10-minute walk from the bus stop.
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On foot: For those staying in Fumane, the winery is an easy 15-minute walk from the town center.
Once you arrive, the friendly winemaker and their staff will be waiting to welcome you and guide you through the tasting of their renowned Valpolicella and Amarone wines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Temperature of the Wine Cellar?
The average temperature of the wine cellar is not explicitly stated in the information provided. However, wine cellars are typically maintained at a cool, consistent temperature to preserve the quality and flavor of the wines.
How Many Grape Varieties Are Used in the Amarone Wine?
The Amarone wine is made from a blend of three traditional Valpolicella grape varieties: Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. The exact proportions of each grape can vary, but they are typically used in combination to create the unique Amarone style.
Is There an On-Site Restaurant for Lunch or Dinner?
No, there is no on-site restaurant for lunch or dinner. The experience focuses solely on the wine tasting and vineyard tour, with an optional food board available for an additional fee.
Can Participants Take Photos During the Vineyard Tour?
Yes, participants are encouraged to take photos during the vineyard tour. The winery welcomes visitors to capture the scenic vineyards, cellar, and historic tower as part of the tasting experience.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tasting Event?
There is no specified dress code for the tasting event. Participants can wear casual, comfortable attire. The focus is on enjoying the wine tasting experience, not on formal dress.
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Recap
Experience the finest Valpolicella and Amarone wines in Fumane’s historic courtyard. This intimate tasting offers insights into organic cultivation and the region’s medieval past. Enjoy a flight of five exquisite vintages, including the unique low-sugar Recioto, complemented by local meats and cheeses. Surrounded by stunning vineyard landscapes, it’s a memorable way to explore the rich flavors of this renowned winemaking area.