Guided tour with wine tasting

This wine tour in Lombardy, Italy, promises more than just a sip or two of local vino—it offers a full day of discovering what makes Italian wines so special. Led by passionate guides like Cristian and Stefano, this experience combines vineyard visits, cellar explorations, and tastings with hearty food pairings.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides turn what could be a simple tasting into a fascinating story about tradition and biodiversity. Second, the delicious selection of wines, including some top-quality sparkling options, impress even seasoned wine lovers. Lastly, the authentic rural setting and the opportunity to understand organic viticulture add a genuine touch you won’t find in commercial wineries.

One aspect to consider: the tour is small—limited to just 10 participants—so it’s intimate but might fill up quickly. Also, it lasts about 2 hours and 20 minutes, so it’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon but might leave some wanting more. This experience is best suited for those who appreciate hands-on learning, authentic food and wine pairings, and small-group atmospheres.

Key Points

• Authentic experience with expert guides Cristian and Stefano
• Small group size enhances personalized attention
• Includes vineyard walk, cellar visit, and tastings
• Delicious local food pairings complement the wines
• Organic vineyards and biodiverse practices add value
• Affordable for the quality and duration

Exploring the itinerary: what you can expect

Starting point: the vineyard walk

Your journey begins at Calatroni Vini in Santa Maria della Versa, where Cristian, the passionate owner and winemaker, greets you. From here, the tour moves into the vineyards, crossing rows of organic grapes along the historic Via di San Colombano. This part of the experience isn’t just about seeing vines; it’s about understanding how this family-run operation prioritizes biodiversity and sustainable practices.

Reviewers highlight this segment as especially engaging, with one noting that guides like Cristian make the vineyard come alive by sharing stories about the land and tradition. The vineyard walk gives you a chance to see firsthand the care taken in cultivating high-quality grapes, with some reviews describing the scenery as “beautiful” and “magically enhanced by the foliage.”

Cellar exploration

Next, you are guided into the winemaking and aging cellars. Here, the focus turns to the process—how grapes become wine, and what makes the Calatroni approach unique. Visitors enjoy Stefano’s detailed explanations, with some reviews describing him as a “very good speaker” who wins over audiences with his clarity and passion.

This part of the tour reveals the art and science of winemaking, from fermentation to aging. You’ll see the barrels, the tanks, and perhaps even the bottles resting, gaining insights into the importance of terroir and tradition. It’s a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle, making the tasting later all the more meaningful.

Tasting session and food pairing

The final phase is all about savoring. Stefano presents four wines, including some of their finest, such as high-quality sparkling options made using traditional methods. His approach covers everything from selecting the right glass to recognizing aromas, helping you develop your palate.

Reviewers have raved about the generous tastings and the food pairings, which often include antipasti, risotto, and desserts like apple pie. Many mention how well the wines complement the food, and how the experience is both educational and pleasurable. One guest pointed out how everything was “ample and generous,” making it an excellent value for the price.

Why this tour is a fantastic choice

This experience is especially well-suited for travelers who want more than just tasting wine—they seek a genuine connection to Italian culture and winemaking. The small-group format allows for personalized attention, and the guides’ passion makes the stories behind each sip come alive.

The inclusion of organic practices and biodiverse vineyards adds an extra layer of authenticity, appealing to those interested in sustainable agriculture. The focus on food pairing makes it great for food lovers or anyone curious about how flavors evolve with wine. Plus, the reasonably priced nature of this experience, at just $118, offers significant value considering the depth of knowledge and quality of wines sampled.

However, keep in mind that the duration is just over two hours, which means you’ll want to arrive prepared for a relaxed, immersive experience rather than a whirlwind visit. Also, the tour is capped at 10 travelers, so booking early is recommended if you want a spot.

A detailed breakdown of what makes this experience special

The vineyard walk with Cristian

Cristian’s passion shines through as he explains the importance of biodiversity in his vineyards. He shares insights into organic viticulture—how the health of the land influences the quality of the grapes and ultimately the wine. You’ll walk through lush rows, observing the different grape varieties and learning about the traditional techniques used to preserve local flora.

One reviewer appreciated how Cristian made the history of the Oltrepò Pavese region come alive, emphasizing the winemaking traditions that have been handed down through generations. This personal touch transforms a simple vineyard walk into a meaningful story about family and land.

The cellar visit: a window into craftsmanship

Stefano’s detailed explanations about wine production and aging processes are consistently praised. He discusses the specifics of the cellar, including the types of barrels used and the aging process, which influences flavor development.

This part of the tour is not just observational; it’s educational. Reviewers mention how Stefano’s clarity and enthusiasm make complex topics accessible, turning technical details into engaging stories. Witnessing the traditional method of sparkling wine production adds a special touch, especially for those interested in high-quality bubbles.

The tasting and food pairing

When it comes to tasting, Stefano helps you recognize aromas and flavor profiles, offering tips on how to choose the right glass and food pairing. The wines are described as “lovely” and “top-tier,” with some reviewers noting the high quality of the sparkling production.

The food component is equally praised. The pairings balance perfectly—antipasti, risotto, and desserts like apple pie—all enhancing the wine experience. One guest noted the generous portions, making the tasting feel more like a proper meal than just a sip-and-sample session.

The overall vibe and extras

Guests frequently mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. The tour’s small size fosters conversation and personalized attention, which many find priceless. The setting, with picturesque landscapes and a charming farm, adds to the authenticity.

The value proposition

At $118, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—not just tasting wine but also understanding its origins and craftsmanship. The inclusion of organic vineyard practices and the opportunity to explore both the vineyard and cellar make it stand out against more commercialized options.

Plus, reviews show that the experience is generous in both samples and knowledge, with many happy to purchase bottles afterward—making it not just a tour but a chance to bring a piece of Italy home.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a genuine taste of Italian culture. Small groups and expert guides make it ideal for those who appreciate personalized attention and detailed storytelling. If you’re interested in sustainable practices and authentic food and wine pairings, you’ll find this especially rewarding.

It’s also suited for visitors who prefer a relaxed pace and want to truly understand the process behind their favorite glass of wine, rather than just sampling without context. Because of its affordability and intimate setting, it’s a worthwhile addition to any itinerary focused on regional food and wine.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It generally appeals to those interested in wine and culture.

What is included in the tour?
The experience includes a vineyard walk, a visit to the cellar, and tasting four wines, accompanied by food pairings.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, making it a relaxed experience ideal for an afternoon.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is there a dress code or special requirement?
There’s no specific dress code, but comfortable shoes are recommended for walking through vineyards and cellars.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexible planning.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Most travelers participate, and service animals are allowed, but it’s best suited for adults or older children who can appreciate wine and the landscape.

What is the price, and is it worth it?
At $118, this tour offers a thorough, authentic experience with expert guides, food, and wine—generous in both content and flavor, making it a good value.

This guided wine tour in Lombardy offers a genuine taste of Italian winemaking, paired with authentic stories and stunning scenery. The small-group format, knowledgeable guides, and focus on organic practices create a memorable experience that appeals to curious wine lovers and culture seekers alike.

It’s especially suitable for those who want to go beyond tasting and learn about the land, tradition, and craftsmanship behind every bottle. The combination of vineyard walking, cellar exploration, and delicious food makes it a well-rounded, satisfying outing.

If you’re after a relaxed, authentic, and educational wine experience that emphasizes quality and sustainability, this tour ticks all the boxes—and likely exceeds your expectations.