Private wine tour on the magical hills of Lucca (2 wineries)

If you’re searching for an authentic taste of Tuscany without the crowds and fuss, a private wine tour around Lucca might just be your golden ticket. While I haven’t experienced this particular trip firsthand, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a personalized, insightful, and delicious adventure. Led by Simone Vergamini, crowned the Best Sommelier of Tuscany 2023, this tour promises more than just wine tasting — it’s a journey into the heart of Lucca’s wine-making traditions, landscapes, and local flavors.

What immediately appeals is the personalized approach — only your group will participate, ensuring tailored attention. The expert guidance of Simone, who blends deep regional knowledge with a friendly vibe, elevates the experience. Add in the chance to explore two different wineries, each representing different denominations of Lucca, and you’ve got a well-rounded, relaxed day. Price-wise at a little over $200 per person, the tour offers a good balance of value, considering the private setting, expert insights, and high-quality tastings. One thing to keep in mind is the necessity of booking well in advance, especially during peak seasons, which speaks to its popularity.

This experience is ideal for wine lovers looking for a completely private, educational, and flavorful exploration of Tuscany’s lesser-known corners. It’s also perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with wine and food, all wrapped in a friendly, intimate setting. However, travelers should note that if their accommodation is more than 15 km from Lucca, a small surcharge applies — something to consider if you’re staying further afield.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring tailored attention and flexibility.
• Expert Guide: Simone’s credentials and warm approach elevate the tour from average to memorable.
• Diverse Wineries: Visiting two different cellars provides a well-rounded taste of local wine styles.
• In-Depth Knowledge: Learning about vineyard harvesting, regional nuances, and wine pairing makes this more educational than typical tastings.
• Delicious Local Food: Snack offerings like bruschetta, cured meats, cheeses, and extra virgin olive oil complement the wines perfectly.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Pickup service available, and mobile tickets make planning easy.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from the Day

Stop 1: Lucca – The Beginning of Your Wine Journey

The tour kicks off in Lucca itself, where you’ll visit a cellar and vineyards, with about an hour and a half dedicated to exploring and tasting. Reviewers often mention that the visit includes a private tasting of 4 to 6 wines paired with seasonal products, giving a genuine sense of the region’s wine character. One guest noted the opportunity to learn about vineyard harvesting details and the area’s specific conditions — a rare chance to glimpse the behind-the-scenes of wine production.

Simone’s approach here is particularly praised: “He toured us in the vineyards and we learned about specific vineyard harvesting details and area conditions,” shares a reviewer. This level of detail makes the experience valuable for those interested in more than just drinking wine — you genuinely get to understand what makes Lucca’s wines special.

Stop 2: Montecarlo — The Heart of the Action

The second stop is in Montecarlo, a charming hilltop town renowned for its wine. Here, you’ll visit another cellar, with a similar duration of about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Expect another intimate tasting of 4 to 6 wines, again paired with seasonal bites. Many reviewers note that the wineries are different, providing variety in both wine styles and ambiance, which keeps the experience engaging and well-rounded.

Simone’s guests consistently mention the warm, welcoming atmosphere at each winery, often highlighted as a major plus. “The wineries were different, which offered us a variety in tasting,” notes one visitor. This variety ensures you’ll leave with a broader appreciation for the region’s wine diversity.

Food and Drink — The Perfect Pairings

A highlight across reviews is the quality of the local foods served alongside the wines. Bruschetta, cured meats, cheeses, and extra virgin olive oil are standard, but everyone agrees these simple, fresh accompaniments elevate the tasting experience. One guest commented, “All charcuterie was delicious at both wineries, same with the wines,” emphasizing how well the pairings work together.

Simone often includes a “light lunch” option, which adds a hearty, satisfying element to the day. With 8-12 wines available during the tour (including the lunch), you’ll get a comprehensive taste of the region’s offerings.

Transportation & Comfort

The tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a real boon on hot days or if you’re coming from a distance. Guests rave about Simone’s knowledgeable and friendly driving, making the journey as enjoyable as the tastings. Bottled water and snacks are included, keeping everyone refreshed and ready to enjoy each stop.

Duration & Timing

The entire experience lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, which strikes a nice balance — long enough for a meaningful exploration but not so extended that it becomes tiring. The itinerary is flexible, with the possibility of customizing certain aspects, especially if you prefer more focus on wine or food.

Value & Booking

At around $209 per person, the tour is considered quite good value for a private experience led by an acclaimed sommelier. Since it is booked on average 81 days in advance, planning ahead is recommended, especially during busy seasons. The price also covers most costs, with extra charges only applicable if your pickup location is outside the 15 km radius from Lucca’s center.

Authenticity & Review Highlights

Simone’s reputation as a top sommelier shines through the reviews. Guests repeatedly mention his knowledge, friendliness, and passion for sharing Tuscany’s wine culture. One reviewer called him “a gracious and excellent host,” while another said, “Simone went above and beyond to make our private wine tour memorable.” Many rave about the personalized service — you’re not just tasting wines; you’re gaining insights into the region’s traditions, grape growing, and wine pairing.

The wineries themselves are often praised for their warm hospitality and quality of wines. Several guests mention that they enjoyed the variety — different wine styles, local delicacies, and intimate conversations with winery representatives. One reviewer noted, “The wines were very good and the people outstanding,” emphasizing the genuine, friendly atmosphere you’ll find.

Special Insights from Reviewers

• Learning about harvesting and vineyard conditions adds extra value for those interested in wine production.
• Guests appreciate the diversity of wines tasted, from different denominations in Lucca.
• The inclusion of local snacks and olive oil elevates the tasting experience beyond just wine.
• Many describe the setting as beautiful, with the rolling hills of Lucca providing a picturesque backdrop.
• The private, intimate environment helps foster relaxed conversations and a genuine connection with the guide and winery staff.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This private wine tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts seeking an educational and personal experience in Tuscany. If you enjoy learning about wine production, pairing wines with local foods, and visiting authentic wineries without the chaos of large groups, this adventure suits you perfectly. Travel couples, friends, or small families looking for a relaxed, in-depth taste of Lucca’s wine culture will find this tour highly rewarding.

The expert guidance of Simone, along with the opportunity to visit two different wineries, ensures a comprehensive and memorable day. The inclusion of local delicacies, stunning scenery, and private transport makes it a package that balances value with quality. However, those who prefer a more flexible, self-guided experience or are staying far from Lucca’s center should be aware of the potential extra surcharge and the need for advance booking.

In essence, this tour provides a wonderful snapshot of Tuscany’s wine heritage, paired with the beauty of Lucca’s hills — a genuine treat for anyone wanting an authentic and intimate exploration of Italy’s wine country.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, covering two wineries and tasting sessions.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, snacks like bruschetta and cheeses, and all wine tastings.

Are there any additional costs?
If your pickup is more than 15 km from Lucca, a surcharge may apply, payable at the end of the tour. Tips are optional.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility and dietary preferences when booking.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is popular and usually booked 81 days ahead. Early booking is recommended.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss preferences with Simone, such as focusing more on wine or food.

What type of wines will I taste?
You’ll visit wineries representing different denominations of Lucca, tasting 4 to 6 wines at each.

How is the food paired with the wine?
The tour includes seasonal products like cured meats, cheeses, and olive oil, which complement the wines beautifully.

This private wine experience in Lucca offers a perfect mix of education, authenticity, and scenic beauty — an ideal way to taste Tuscany’s celebrated wines while soaking up the region’s timeless charm.