Valeggio: Perlage d’Autore, a journey through bubbles of excellence

If you’re curious about Italy’s celebrated sparkling wines, Perlage d’Autore at Corte Fornello offers a charming, personal glimpse into the art of sparkling wine production right in Vicenza. This two-hour experience, led by the passionate winery owners, balances education with tasting, making it ideal for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.

What makes this tour special? First, the personalized approach—you’re guided by the owners themselves, not a generic guidebook. Second, the visit to an 18th-century barrique cellar transports you into the history of wine making. But, keep in mind, it’s a relatively short, intimate experience, so if you’re looking for a full-day wine adventure, this might be more of a taste of something authentic than an exhaustive deep dive.

This experience is best suited for those who value genuine, small-group encounters, and who want to understand both the craft of sparkling wine and its connection to Italian tradition. Travelers eager to enjoy excellent wine paired with local snacks will find this tour a delightful highlight of their Vicenza visit.

Key Points

• Authentic experience guided by the winery owners, not just a standard tour.
• Rich history with a visit to an 18th-century cellar.
• Personalized attention including dietary considerations and questions.
• Tasty pairing of wines with local salami, cheese, and bread.
• Small group size (max 15), ensuring an intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
• Value for money with a comprehensive tasting and a scenic setting.

An in-depth look at the Perlage d’Autore tour

The setting: a tranquil village and historic cellar

The tour begins in the peaceful village of Fornello, a quieter corner of Vicenza’s surroundings. The Corte Fornello estate invites visitors with its rustic charm and genuine warmth. It’s a place where history whispers from the stone walls and the ambiance hints at centuries of wine craftsmanship.

Walking into the 18th-century barrique cellar is like stepping back in time. The aged wooden barrels and historic ambiance set the tone for a tasting rooted in tradition. We loved how the owners maintain these storied spaces, blending history with modern winemaking techniques.

Guided tour: learning the secrets of sparkling wine

The 40-minute guided tour is where you’ll learn about the entire process of making sparkling wines from vine to bottle. The owner-operators share stories and details about their methods, giving you a deeper appreciation for what makes their wines special. Their passion is evident, and they take care to answer questions and customize the experience for your interests and dietary needs.

One reviewer noted, “Maria explained the way of sparkling wines from the vine into the bottle and guided us through the different stages of production in the winery,” which highlights the personalized and educational nature of this part of the tour.

Tasting: savoring the best wines with local snacks

Following the tour, you move to a cozy tasting session. Here, you’ll sample some of the finest wines the winery produces. The tasting lasts around 80 minutes and includes bottled water and a selection of snacks—a chopping board of salami, cheese, and bread—that complement the wines perfectly.

The emphasis on local delights makes the experience more than just about wine; it’s a taste of Italian culture. The excellent wine selection is frequently praised, with visitors remarking on the quality and variety of the sparkling wines they get to try.

The value of this experience

At just $57.79 per person, this tour offers a great balance of education, tasting, and scenic beauty. It’s a compact, well-curated introduction to Italian sparkling wines, especially considering the personal attention you’ll receive. For those interested in wine, history, or authentic Italian culture, this is a worthwhile investment.

How the experience feels in practice

The small group size (maximum 15 people) means you won’t be lost in a crowd. The atmosphere is relaxed, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get close to the winemaking process. The warm welcome sets the tone, and the owners’ enthusiasm is contagious.

Travelers have shared positive impressions, with one noting how Maria’s explanations made the process clear and engaging. The mix of history, craftsmanship, and delicious wines makes the tour memorable.

Practical considerations

• The tour is approximate two hours, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules.
• You’ll meet at Località Fornello, 6, and return there after the experience.
• Private transportation isn’t included, so plan to arrange your own transfer.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, including service animals and those with dietary restrictions (with prior notice).
• Alcoholic beverages are served only to those 18 and over, with soft drinks provided for minors.

Who should book this tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a genuine, behind-the-scenes look at Italian sparkling wines without the fuss of a large-scale commercial tour. It suits wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in authentic Italian culture. If you appreciate personalized experiences, a scenic setting, and quality wines, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s especially valuable for those who want to learn the craft from passionate owners and taste excellent wines alongside local snacks. If your goal is a relaxed, intimate, and informative taste of Italy’s wine-making tradition, this tour hits the mark.

Final thoughts: is it worth your time?

Absolutely. For a modest price, you get a personalized, educational, and delicious peek into Italy’s sparkling wine scene. The small-group setting ensures an authentic atmosphere where you can truly connect with the owners and their craft. The historic cellar and scenic surroundings add depth, making the experience more than just a tasting.

While it’s a shorter tour, the quality of the wines and the warmth of the hosts make it a memorable highlight, especially if you’re curious about Italy’s lesser-known sparkling wines rather than the more famous Prosecco.

In summary, this tour offers excellent value for its price—an authentic, well-rounded introduction to Italian sparkling wine culture, perfect for anyone visiting Vicenza who wants to enjoy a personal, flavorful experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or minors?
Minors under 18 will be served soft drinks, and the tour is designed primarily for adult wine enthusiasts, but children are welcome as long as they’re supervised.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including the guided tour and tasting.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided visit, tasting of the winery’s best wines, bottled water, and snacks like salami, cheese, and bread.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. It’s a flexible booking option for those with uncertain schedules.

Is transportation provided?
No, private transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer to and from the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes are fine. If you plan to explore the cellar or the estate, bring appropriate footwear.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the hosts take care of dietary needs and will personalize the experience if informed in advance.

What makes this tour different from other wine tastings?
It’s led by the actual winery owners, offering insights into the craft that you won’t get from larger, impersonal tours.

Can I buy wine directly from the winery?
The tour description doesn’t specify, but most small wineries are happy to sell bottles at the end of the visit.

Is the tour available in languages other than Italian?
The description doesn’t specify language options, but given the small group size and personal approach, English-speaking guides are likely available.

To sum it up, if you’re in Vicenza and want a memorable, authentic look into Italy’s sophisticated sparkling wines, Perlage d’Autore at Corte Fornello offers an enjoyable, educational experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and excellent wine—all in a friendly, intimate setting. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking genuine Italian flavor and a taste of local tradition.