Monferrato: Wine Tasting and Guided Tour of the Infernot

Imagine wandering through ancient cellars carved into stone, surrounded by sweeping views of Italy’s rolling hills, and tasting wines that carry centuries of tradition. That’s precisely what this Monferrato wine experience offers—an engaging blend of history, stunning scenery, and authentic flavors. While it’s not a full-day excursion, this 2-hour tour packs in enough charm and insight to satisfy your curiosity about Italy’s less-traveled wine regions.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience are two key elements: the visit to UNESCO-listed infernot, underground wine cellars with a mysterious aura, and the panoramic terrace that makes the tasting feel like a celebration of Italy’s landscape. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour’s brevity means it’s best suited for those with a keen interest in wine or history, and not necessarily for travelers seeking a lengthy vineyard experience. This tour appeals most to curious travelers eager to learn, taste, and see a lesser-known part of Italy’s wine heritage.

Key Points

• Unique Infernot Experience: Discover underground UNESCO World Heritage Site cellars carved into stone, steeped in tradition.
• Stunning Panoramas: Enjoy breathtaking views from the terrace, perfect for photos or just soaking in the landscape.
• Authentic Wine Tasting: Sample four wines from the winery’s Classic Line, accompanied by fragrant breadsticks.
• Family-Friendly: Animals are welcome, making it a relaxed environment for travelers with pets.
• Cultural Insights: The guided visit offers stories and history behind the region and its wine-making.
• Accessible and Flexible: The tour is wheelchair accessible, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What This Tour Offers

If you’re dreaming of a taste of Italy’s wine country without committing to a long day, this Monferrato wine tour might be just right. It’s a short, two-hour journey that combines history, panoramic views, and wine tasting, designed to give you a genuine sense of the area’s character. From ancient underground cellars to lovely terraces, you’ll see what makes Monferrato special.

Two features that really stand out are the visit to the UNESCO-listed infernot—these underground rooms are both atmospheric and historically significant—and the spectacular views from the terrace, which offer a perfect backdrop for sipping your wine. However, because the tour lasts only two hours, it’s probably not ideal if you’re looking for an in-depth wine tour or a full day of activities. Instead, it suits those who want a concise, engaging introduction to this hidden gem of Italy’s wine regions.

This experience is perfect for history buffs, wine enthusiasts, and travelers who appreciate authentic stories and scenic settings. It’s also family-friendly and pet-friendly, making it a relaxed outing for groups and couples alike.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

Starting Point at Cinque Quinti

Your journey begins at the Cinque Quinti winery, located in the picturesque village of Cella Monte—declared one of Italy’s most beautiful villages in 2018. This setting sets the stage for a memorable visit, with charming stone buildings and sweeping countryside views just outside the door.

Guided Tour of the Winery (Approx. 25 minutes)

The heart of the experience is the guided walk through the historic winery, where your guide shares stories about wine-making traditions in the region. We loved the way the guide explained the transformation of grapes into wine, emphasizing the passion and craftsmanship involved. This part of the tour offers insight into the process, making it more meaningful than just a tasting.

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Underground Infernot Exploration

Next comes the visit to the infernot, carved into Pietra da Cantoni stone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These underground rooms are guardians of centuries-old tradition, with their mysterious, cool atmosphere adding a sense of history that you can almost feel in the air. Several reviews highlighted the “enchanting” nature of these spaces, noting how they make the experience more than just about wine—it’s about understanding the land’s stories.

Panoramic Terrace and Wine Tasting (Approx. 1 hour)

The tour concludes on a beautiful terrace overlooking the hills, where you’re invited to taste four wines from the winery’s Classic Line. The tasting is paired with fragrant breadsticks, and you can opt to add a platter of cold cuts, cheeses, or bruschetta to enhance your experience. The views from the terrace are consistently praised, with visitors commenting on how they add a special touch to the tasting.

Wrap-up and Return

The activity ends back at the starting point, giving you ample time to reflect or take photos before heading off. The whole experience, including transportation and tasting, offers a satisfying snapshot of Monferrato’s wine culture without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price is a visit to the historic winery, a guided tour of the infernot, and a tasting of four wines from the Classic Line, paired with breadsticks. It’s a straightforward package that offers good value, especially considering the insight and authentic atmosphere you gain.

Extras like a small platter with cold cuts, cheeses, and bruschetta are available to purchase or request in advance, with vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free options upon request. It’s worth considering if you’re a foodie or want a more substantial tasting experience.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• The tour lasts around 2 hours, with start times depending on availability. Check the schedule before booking.
• Meeting point is at the ticket office at Cinque Quinti; arrive on time to avoid delays.
• The activity is wheelchair accessible but is not suitable for pregnant women.
• Animals are welcome, making it a relaxed spot for pet owners.
• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
• The tour is conducted in Italian and English, accommodating a wide range of visitors.
• Bring a long-sleeved shirt—the underground infernot can be cool and humid.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Multiple reviews praise the tour for its stunning views and authentic storytelling. One visitor remarked, “The underground infernot was like stepping back in time — truly enchanting,” while another appreciated the relaxed, family-friendly environment, noting how animals are welcomed and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable.

Many mention the quality of the wines, with the tasting offering a “nice variety” that feels authentic and well-selected. The terrace views consistently garner compliments, with visitors describing them as “breathtaking” and “the perfect backdrop for a glass of wine.”

Some review the tour as “short but sweet,” emphasizing that it’s a great introduction to Monferrato’s wine culture without the need for a full day commitment. The concise schedule makes it ideal for those on a tight itinerary or seeking authentic, manageable experiences.

Why We Think This Tour Is Worth It

This experience offers a genuine glimpse into Monferrato’s wine traditions, combining history, scenic beauty, and authentic tasting. The highlight for many will be the infernot, an underground treasure trove and a UNESCO site that adds depth to your understanding of local wine heritage. The panoramic terrace provides a peaceful setting to savor your wines while soaking up the landscape—arguably the best part of the visit.

The guided storytelling enriches the tasting, making it clear that these wines are more than just drinks—they are a connection to the land and its history. The fact that animals are welcome and the experience is wheelchair accessible makes it more inclusive than many other tours.

However, keep in mind the limited duration. If you seek an extensive vineyard visit or full-day experience, this may feel a bit rushed. But for a short, meaningful, and visually stunning introduction, it’s hard to beat.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for wine lovers interested in history and culture, especially those who enjoy authentic, storytelling-driven experiences. It’s also suitable for families and pet owners seeking a relaxed outing. Travelers with limited time in Italy will appreciate the compact schedule that still delivers a memorable taste of Monferrato.

It’s less suited for pregnant women or those with mobility restrictions, given that the infernot is underground and the tour is relatively short. If you’re after a full vineyard tour or tastings of multiple wines over several hours, you might want to look elsewhere.

The Sum Up: Who Should Book?

This Monferrato wine tour offers a balanced combination of history, scenery, and tasting that will appeal most to those craving an authentic look into Italy’s lesser-known wine regions. The highlight—the UNESCO-listed infernot—adds a layer of intrigue, while the panoramic terrace makes the tasting experience special.

It’s an excellent choice for short-stay travelers, history enthusiasts, and families, especially if you love stunning views and meaningful stories. The price reflects the quality of the experience, and the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind.

If you’re visiting northern Italy and want a memorable, compact taste of Monferrato’s wine culture, this tour makes for an enriching and relaxed outing—one that stays with you long after the last sip.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the experience is quite engaging for adults, children may enjoy exploring the underground infernot and the scenic views. The tour is family-friendly and animals are welcome.

What should I wear?
Bring a long-sleeved shirt, especially if you plan to visit the infernot, as it can be cool and humid underground.

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

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing most visitors with mobility needs to participate comfortably.

How many wines will I taste?
You will enjoy a tasting of four wines from the Classic Line, paired with breadsticks. Additional platters and special options are available.

Can I buy more than just the wines?
Yes, you can add a platter of cold cuts, cheeses, and bruschetta. These can be requested ahead or purchased on-site.

Is this experience available in languages other than Italian and English?
The tour is conducted in Italian and English, making it accessible to a broad audience.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about two hours including the guided visit, tasting, and sightseeing.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended to secure your preferred time slot, especially during busy seasons.

In short, this tour combines scenic views, underground mysteries, and authentic wines into a charming two-hour package. Perfect for those with a curiosity for wine, history, and Italy’s beautiful landscapes—without a long day commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here: