The Best of the Langhe: Wine Tasting & Traditional Meal

Traveling through Italy’s Piedmont region, especially the Langhe area, offers a feast for the senses—stunning landscapes, world-class wines, and hearty local cuisine. This tour promises to combine all three in a refined yet authentic way, with a guided vineyard visit, a tasting of three distinct wines from Podere Gagliassi, and a traditional Piedmontese meal at a Michelin-starred trattoria, Lostu.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances beautiful scenery with educational insight and excellent food and drink. Plus, with the option to enjoy a carefully curated menu from a top chef, it’s a generous way to deepen your understanding of Piedmont’s wine and culinary traditions. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the timing––dinner at Lostu begins at 7:30 PM, and the cellar tour takes about 1.5 hours, so you might have to wait a little before sitting down for your meal.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love good wine, authentic regional cuisine, and scenic spots. It’s ideal if you’re after a well-rounded afternoon that combines learning, tasting, and enjoying great views without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour offers panoramic vistas of the Langhe hills, perfect for photo enthusiasts.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides lead you through vineyards and cellars, adding context to your tasting experience.
• High-Quality Wines: Tasting three wines that reflect the unique terroir of Podere Gagliassi.
• Authentic Piedmontese Cuisine: Savor a traditional tasting menu curated by a Michelin-starred chef.
• Balanced Itinerary: Includes vineyard visits, cellar tours, tastings, and a sit-down meal, all within 3.5 hours.
• Good Value: The experience combines multiple elements—wine, food, and views—for a reasonable price considering the quality and locale.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point at Podere Gagliassi

Your day begins at Podere Gagliassi, a family-run winery known for its commitment to producing wines that truly reflect the Langhe’s landscape. Here, you’ll meet your guide and step into a setting that’s both modern and intimate, with the chance to see the vineyards that produce some of Piedmont’s finest wines.

The guides are praised for their warmth and clarity. As one reviewer notes, “The tour guide was clear and very kind,” making the visit approachable whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned taster. You’ll get a quick overview of the winery’s history, philosophy, and the unique qualities of the region’s grapes.

Scenic Vineyard Tour

Next, you’ll hop on a guided walk through the vineyards, taking in breathtaking views of rolling hills covered in grapevines. Expect about an hour of walking, with photo stops and scenic vistas that highlight why this region is so revered among wine lovers.

The guides often share fascinating tidbits about the different grape varieties and the influence of the terroir—a word you’ll hear a lot here—meaning the soil, climate, and topography all combine to give each wine its distinctive flavor. One guest describes the experience as “learning lots of interesting facts about local wine production,” which adds a layer of appreciation when you sample the wines later.

Winery Tour and Tasting

Following the vineyard walk, you’ll visit the cellars of Podere Gagliassi. This behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process is where the real magic happens. Here, you’ll taste three carefully selected wines, each showcasing different aspects of the winery’s craftsmanship.

The wines are described as “exceptional” and representative of the Langhe’s typical style. To complement the tasting, you’ll enjoy grissini and hazelnuts—simple yet authentic Piedmontese snacks that enhance the wine appreciation without overpowering it. One reviewer mentions, “The wines were very good,” and, “the guide explained everything very well,” making the tasting both educational and enjoyable.

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The Culinary Finale at Lostu

The final part of your experience takes place at Lostu, a trattoria just a short walk away, run by Michelin-starred chef Pasquale Laera. The menu features three appetizers, a main course, and a dessert, all rooted in Piedmontese tradition but with a modern touch.

While the restaurant opens at 7:30 PM and the cellar tour lasts about an hour and a half, diners note that there might be a short wait before you’re seated. Still, the staff’s friendliness and attentive service make it worthwhile. Guests have raved about the quality ingredients and presentation of the dishes, particularly the “mattonella,” which one guest said they could eat “ten more portions” of.

Overall Timing and Flow

The tour is designed to comfortably fit into about 3.5 hours—meaning you’ll get a good taste of the region’s landscape, wine, and food without feeling rushed. The group size tends to be small, especially for the cellar visit, which means more personalized attention.

Pricing and Value

While the tour price does not include additional beverages at the restaurant, you receive a 10% discount on wines purchased at Podere Gagliassi, which is a nice perk if you want to take a favorite bottle home. Considering the combination of vineyard exploration, tasting high-quality wines, and a Michelin-quality meal, the experience provides excellent value for those interested in authentic Piedmontese culture.

What Reviewers Say

Many guests emphasize the guides’ professionalism and friendliness. One traveler states, “Led by Pietro, whose professionalism, kindness, and friendliness really made the difference,” highlighting the importance of personal touches in making an experience memorable.

Others appreciate the stunning sunset views and the beautiful setting of Podere Gagliassi, making it a perfect venue for a relaxed yet informative afternoon. The food at Lostu is also frequently praised, with comments on the use of quality ingredients and the welcoming atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy good wine, regional cuisine, and scenic landscapes. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a well-organized, authentic encounter without the hassle of multiple bookings. It’s also suitable for small groups, as the guided nature and personalized attention make it a relaxed experience.

While it’s not meant to be a high-energy, high-intensity tour, it offers enough variety—vineyard views, wine education, and a delicious meal—to satisfy most lovers of the region.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, the tour is offered in English, Italian, and Spanish, so language should not be a barrier.

How long does the cellar tour last?
The cellar tour, especially for smaller groups, lasts about 1.5 hours.

Can I buy wines at the winery?
Absolutely, and you’ll receive a 10% discount on any wines purchased.

Is there a vegetarian option at Lostu?
The menu details focus on regional Piedmontese cuisine; you might want to inquire directly, but the menu typically features traditional meat-based dishes.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all guests.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking outdoors and indoors; layers are recommended since vineyard tours can be warm or cool depending on the season.

Can I join the tour if I am traveling alone?
Yes, small group tours are common, and solo travelers are welcome.

What is the best time of day to take this tour?
Check the availability for starting times; late afternoon may coincide with beautiful sunset views.

Are children allowed?
The experience is designed for adults, especially considering the wine tasting and dinner, but check with the provider for specific policies.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded peek into Piedmont’s winemaking and culinary traditions, paired with breathtaking views of the Langhe hills. It’s a great choice for those who want a mix of education, authentic regional flavors, and scenic beauty—all within a manageable time frame.

If you’re curious about Piedmont’s wines and enjoy sitting down to a thoughtfully prepared meal after a lively vineyard walk, this experience is worth considering. The reviews consistently praise the guides’ friendliness, the quality of wines, and the delicious food, making it a reliable choice for a memorable day in Italy’s wine country.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to deepen your appreciation of Italian culture, this tour combines the essential ingredients for an authentic Piedmontese adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: