If you’re considering a taste of both local wines and stunning Lake Como scenery, this 2-hour wine tasting in Brunate offers just that. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on detailed descriptions and reviews, it looks like a perfect blend of flavor and sight. Imagine sipping three carefully chosen regional wines, each paired with delicious local bites, all while soaking in panoramic views from a charming hilltop village.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the spectacular scenery—a scenic funicular ride takes you up to Brunate, revealing views that are truly postcard-worthy. Second, the authenticity—a historic winery steeped in Lombard tradition provides an intimate setting for tasting.
A potential caveat? The experience is relatively short—just two hours—so if you’re after a deep dive into Lombard wine culture, you might find it a bit light. However, for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic, and flavorful outing, this tour hits the right notes.
This tour is best suited for those who appreciate authentic local experiences, enjoy spectacular vistas, and prefer a small-group setting. Whether you’re celebrating, snapping photos, or simply relaxing with a glass of wine, it offers a memorable peek into Lake Como’s scenic and culinary charm.
Key Points
- Stunning panoramic views of Lake Como from Brunate
- Tastes of 3 regional wines, each paired with traditional bites
- Historic winery setting with a story to tell
- Scenic funicular ride included, with tickets covered
- A small group experience, adding to the intimacy
- Perfect for those who enjoy combining scenery with regional flavors
An Overview of the Experience
This two-hour wine tasting takes place in the hilltop village of Brunate, a spot famous for its sweeping views over Lake Como. The setting is a historic winery, which adds a layer of authenticity and charm to the tasting. As you arrive, you’ll hop on a funicular ride—a highlight in itself—which whisks you up from Como to this elevated vantage point with minimal fuss and maximum scenic payoff.
Once at the winery, you’ll dive into a tasting of three local wines—a sparkling white, a white, and a red—each carefully selected to showcase Lombardy’s diverse wine offerings. The guide, likely multilingual, will share stories behind each bottle, giving you a sense of the region’s winemaking traditions.
The wines are paired with local delicacies: homemade focaccia, breadsticks, a mixed platter of salami and cheeses, and other regional appetizers. These bites are not only tasty but also serve to bring out the wines’ flavors—something we all appreciate when tasting wines with food.
The scenery here is the real star. The panoramic windows and outdoor terraces offer views across Lake Como’s shimmering waters and the surrounding mountains. It’s an ideal spot for photos—so bring your camera—and a quiet moment to soak in the natural beauty.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Brunate.
The Scenic Funicular Ride
The journey begins with tickets included for the historic funicular that transports you from Como to Brunate. It’s a short but delightful ride, with views that make the journey as memorable as the tasting itself. The funicular is well-loved by travelers for its old-world charm and the way it elevates the whole experience.
The Winery and Tasting Setting
The winery boasts a historic charm, which adds depth to your tasting experience. It’s a cozy, intimate space where passionate guides share insights into Lombardy’s winemaking heritage. The setting is not a modern tasting room but rather a place that feels connected to tradition, making each sip a little more meaningful.
Many reviews praise the authenticity of this experience, noting that the guide’s stories add richness to the tasting. One review mentions, “The wines and food were lovely, but the views are what I’ll remember most.” That’s a sentiment many travelers echo, emphasizing the importance of scenery in making this outing memorable.
The Wines and Food
The three wines are selected to showcase the diversity of Lombard wines. You might find a sparkling white to start, perfect for celebrating or simply enjoying the freshness of the region. The white and red that follow are described as premium, reflecting Lombardy’s quality winemaking.
The pairing of local bites—focaccia, breadsticks, and a cheese and salami platter—are designed to complement the wines and are homemade, adding an extra layer of authenticity. Reviews confirm that the bites are plentiful enough to satisfy and enhance the overall tasting.
More Great Tours NearbyGroup Size and Accessibility
Limited to 8 participants, this is a small-group experience, fostering a relaxed and personal atmosphere. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer intimacy over large crowds but still want the social aspect of a guided experience. The tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, Italian, French, and German, making it accessible to international visitors.
Analyzing the Value
At two hours, this tour offers a focused but memorable experience. The inclusion of the funicular tickets and the intimate setting make it a good value for those interested in both winemaking and scenic views. While it’s not a full-day deep dive into Lombard wine, the combination of tasting, scenery, and storytelling makes it a well-rounded outing.
Reviewers frequently highlight the breathtaking views as the highlight, and many appreciate that the experience allows interaction with passionate guides who explain the region’s traditions. The price point seems reasonable given the included transportation, tasting, and food.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for wine lovers wanting to taste regional products in a beautiful setting. It’s also well-suited for scenic lovers, as the views alone make this outing worth it. If you’re after a relaxed, intimate outing that combines food, drink, and scenery, you’ll find this tour compelling.
It works well for couples, small groups, or even solo travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences without the rush of a large tour. Keep in mind, if you’re seeking a full-day excursion into Lombardy’s wine culture or a more extensive vineyard tour, this might feel a bit brief.
Final Thoughts
This Lake Como wine tasting in Brunate offers a taste of Italian wine, tradition, and unmatched scenery all in one compact package. The panoramic views of Lake Como are what many travelers rave about—and they’re genuinely spectacular. The intimate setting at a historic winery, coupled with carefully paired local wines and bites, makes for a genuine and memorable outing.
While it’s relatively short, the experience strikes a good balance between flavor, scenery, and storytelling. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a relaxed, authentic taste of the region without overextending their schedule. If you’re looking for a refined, scenic, and flavorful break from sightseeing, this tour is a smart pick.
FAQs
Is transportation included? Yes, the roundtrip ticket for the funicular from Como to Brunate is included, making the journey seamless.
How long does the tour last? The tasting itself runs around two hours, with the funicular ride included in this time frame.
What wines will I taste? You’ll sample three regional wines: one sparkling white, one white, and one red.
Are food pairings included? Yes, the wines are paired with homemade focaccia, breadsticks, and a platter of salami, cheeses, and regional appetizers.
Is the group size small? Absolutely, limited to 8 participants, ensuring a relaxed and personal experience.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility for travelers.
What should I bring? Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, and dress comfortably for the outdoor and indoor settings.
This experience offers a delightful mix of flavors and vistas, ideal for anyone wanting a personal touch of Italian charm on their Lake Como visit. It’s a refined, authentic, and scenic way to enjoy a slice of Lombard life—perfect for wine enthusiasts and scenery lovers alike.
You can check availability for your dates here: