Arezzo: Vertical Tasting of Merlot Wines

Arezzo: Vertical Tasting of Merlot Wines — An Authentic Tuscan Experience

When it comes to exploring Tuscany’s wine scene, most travelers picture rolling hills, medieval towns, and of course, lush vineyards. This particular tour offers a focused dive into one of Italy’s beloved reds — Merlot — with a unique vertical tasting of three exceptional vintages at Buccelletti Casali & Cantina near Arezzo. While this experience may not suit those looking for a broad overview of Tuscany’s wine regions, it offers a genuine look at how a single estate’s wines age and develop over time.

What we really love about this experience is its intimacy — a private tour paired with a carefully curated tasting of vintages from 2011, 2015, and 2018. The chance to visit a family estate dating back to 1625 adds a layer of historical charm, while the combination of wine, local food pairings, and scenic views makes it a well-rounded, authentic outing. A potential snag? The tour is best reached by car, as there’s no nearby public transportation, so plan accordingly.

This experience will appeal most to wine lovers interested in learning about wine aging, history buffs eager for a taste of Tuscany’s past, or travelers seeking a quieter, more personalized wine visit. If you’re after a relaxed, educational day with delicious wine and stunning surroundings, this tour hits the spot.

Key Points

• Exclusive Vintage Selection: Tasting three of the estate’s Riserva Merlot vintages (2011, 2015, 2018) offers insight into the wine’s aging process.
• Historical Setting: The estate includes a family chapel from 1625, adding a layer of culture.
• Private Tour: A small, private group ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Authentic Tuscan Flavors: Paired with olive oil, bread, cold cuts, and cheese, the tasting emphasizes local produce.
• Scenic Locale: The tasting takes place under a rustic pergola or inside a historic mill, with views of unspoiled Tuscan countryside.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with options to reserve without immediate payment, ideal for spontaneous plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Location and Accessibility

The tour begins at Via Santa Cristina, 16 — a discreet spot marked by a prominent Buccelletti sign. Because the estate isn’t serviced by public taxis, travelers should plan to arrive by car. This might seem a minor inconvenience but actually offers flexibility; you can enjoy the scenic drive through Tuscany’s countryside, which is part of the charm.

The Guided Tour

The first part of the experience is a 30-minute guided walk through the estate. Visitors are taken inside the historic property, including the family chapel from 1625, which offers a tangible link to the estate’s centuries-old past. Then, a visit to the wine cellar and olive mill follows, providing insights into traditional Tuscan wine-making and olive oil production.

What sets this apart is the focus on storytelling — the Buccelletti team is known for sharing their passion and secrets of wine craftsmanship. As one review mentions, “The guide was knowledgeable and eager to share stories about the estate’s history and the wine aging process,” which adds depth beyond just tasting.

The Vertical Tasting

The main event is a guided tasting of three vintage Merlots (2011, 2015, 2018). Each vintage is carefully explained by the hosts, highlighting differences in taste, aroma, and aging potential. Expect a detailed discussion on how weather, harvest, and winemaking choices influence the final product.

Guests will feel the exclusivity of drinking wines that are typically not available for sale in the shop, making this a rare chance to taste the estate’s top Riserva wines. The tasting notes provided help you understand what makes each vintage unique and how they evolve over time.

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Food Pairings and Setting

The tasting takes place outdoors under a rustic pergola, perfect for enjoying the fresh Tuscan air and scenic vistas. If the weather turns bad, the team swiftly moves the experience indoors to a cozy tasting room inside the historic mill.

The wines are paired with bread dipped in extra virgin olive oil and a selection of local cold cuts and cheeses. These simple, authentic flavors complement the wines beautifully, allowing you to appreciate the terroir and craftsmanship behind each sip. One reviewer mentioned, “The pairing was simple but effective, and the olive oil was so fresh it tasted like a bottle of liquid sunshine.”

Duration, Group Size, and Cost

This tour lasts around 2 hours, making it a manageable yet immersive experience. It’s designed as a private group, ensuring you won’t be lost in a crowd and can ask questions freely. The price includes not just the tastings but also the estate tour, the tasting notes, and the chance to purchase wines at a special rate — a real perk if you want a memento or gift.

Practical Tips

• Since transfers aren’t included, driving or arranging your own transport is recommended.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women, as it involves wine tasting.
• The experience is offered in Italian and English, with guides eager to share their expertise.
• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility should your plans change.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

While the cost might seem high compared to general wine tastings, the focused nature of a vertical tasting and access to historic estate features make it worthwhile. You’re not just sampling wine — you’re learning about aging, terroir, and history from passionate local experts. The inclusion of food pairings and estate visits adds richness to the experience, making it more than just a tasting.

Overall Impression

This tour balances education, taste, and scenery beautifully. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate the nuances of wine aging and want a more intimate, behind-the-scenes look at a Tuscan estate. The private nature ensures personalized attention, and the historic setting makes it memorable.

Who Should Book This Experience?

If you’re a wine enthusiast keen on understanding how Merlot ages or someone interested in Tuscan history, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a quiet, educational escape from busier tourist spots. Not ideal for families with young children or those without access to a car, but highly recommended for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a tailored, genuine experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, the tour is best reached by car since public transport isn’t available nearby. That allows you to enjoy the scenic drive and flexibility.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 2 hours, including the estate visit and tasting session.

What is included in the price?
You get a guided estate tour, a vertical tasting of three vintage Merlots, pairing with local cold cuts, cheese, bread, and olive oil, plus tasting notes and the chance to purchase wines.

Can I buy the wines after the tour?
Yes, you can purchase the exclusive wines — which aren’t normally sold in the shop — at the estate.

Is the experience suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, due to alcohol consumption, it’s not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute plans.

To sum it up, the Arezzo Vertical Tasting of Merlot Wines offers a distinctive look into Tuscany’s wine heritage through the lens of a historic estate. Its private, educational approach makes it ideal for wine aficionados and history lovers alike, looking for a relaxed yet insightful experience. The blend of scenic beauty, authentic food pairings, and exclusive vintages makes this a memorable addition to any Tuscan itinerary. Just remember to arrive prepared to drive, and you’ll leave with not only a deeper appreciation for Merlot but also a few stories to tell about this picturesque corner of Italy.

You can check availability for your dates here: