Marano di Valpolicella offers a rich blend of wine experiences that cater to both oenophiles and casual visitors. Its scenic vineyard landscapes and passionate local producers make it a fantastic place to explore Amarone wine and learn about its craftsmanship. Among the experiences we love, the Amarone vertical tasting stands out for its deep dive into the evolution of this iconic wine, offering a chance to taste different vintages side by side. The interactive visits like the Visit and tasting with the producer give you direct access to the people behind the bottles, making it personal and memorable. For those who prefer a fun twist, Playing with wine offers a playful way to understand wine through engaging exercises, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
If you’re planning a trip, these three experiences provide a well-rounded look at Valpolicella’s wine scene, from tasting history to playful learning, and intimate producer visits. Let’s explore each in detail so you can decide which suits your style best.
1. Amarone vertical tasting: A unique experience tasting different vintages of Amarone
This Amarone vertical tasting offers a rare look at the aging process of this prized red wine. Over about an hour, you’ll taste four different Amarone vintages, each with its own distinct character, and learn how climate, barrel aging, and winemaking techniques influence flavor. The tour begins at Via Paverno, 21, with a walk through the vineyard where you can see firsthand how the terrain shapes the grapes. The visit continues with a guided tour of the winery and fruit cellar, providing insight into the production process that turns grapes into wine.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on vintage comparison, allowing you to appreciate how Amarone evolves over time. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to sample wines you might not easily find elsewhere. This is best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of Amarone’s nuances. The tasting is both educational and sensory-rich, making it ideal for those who love exploring wine’s complexity.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in learning about Amarone’s aging process and appreciating wine evolution, this is an engaging, informative option that offers good value for a deeper dive into Valpolicella’s signature wine.
2. Playing with wine
For a lighter, more playful experience, consider Playing with wine. This two-hour session costs around $53 per person and is perfect for travelers who want to have fun while learning about wine. The activity involves discovering how to detect different fruits and flavors in a glass—no prior wine knowledge needed. The instructor guides you through simple exercises to sharpen your senses, making it ideal for groups, couples, or anyone looking for a relaxed, interactive activity.
What sets this apart is its informal, humorous approach. It’s less about technical details and more about enjoying wine in a creative way, making it perfect for those who want a memorable afternoon without the formality. Participants often find it both amusing and educational, walking away with new insights into how wine’s flavors are perceived and what to look for when tasting.
Value for money is high—two hours of engaging fun for just over fifty dollars. It’s best suited for curious travelers, newcomers to wine, or those who want a social experience that’s as much about laughs as learning. The only potential downside is that it doesn’t dive deeply into wine production or regional specifics, but that’s part of its charm.
Bottom line: If you’re after a fun, interactive experience that demystifies wine tasting, this activity will keep you entertained and educated in equal measure.
3. Visit and tasting with the producer
For those who want a personal connection with the winemakers, the Visit and tasting with the producer at Corte Badin is an excellent choice. Over two hours, you’ll tour the winery and enjoy a tasting session with the owner, gaining insight into the craftsmanship and passion behind each bottle. The experience is informal but informative, allowing for direct interaction and questions.
This tour is unique because it puts you face-to-face with the person responsible for the wine’s creation, which often results in stories and details that you won’t find in guidebooks. The owner shares their approach to viticulture and enology, making it a very authentic experience. Reviewers often comment on how personable and welcoming the producer is, which adds a genuine touch to the visit.
This experience is perfect for travelers looking for an authentic, behind-the-scenes perspective, especially if you enjoy engaging with local producers and learning about how their personal philosophy influences the wines. The value is good for those wanting a deeper, more intimate understanding of Valpolicella winemaking.
Bottom line: If personal interaction and learning directly from the wine maker appeal to you, this tour offers a memorable, authentic taste of Valpolicella’s wine culture.
How to Choose
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how deep you want to go into the world of Valpolicella wines. If you’re passionate about Amarone and love understanding how wine changes over time, the Amarone vertical tasting is an excellent pick. For a casual, fun introduction to wine tasting, Playing with wine offers lighthearted learning. If you want an authentic, behind-the-scenes experience with a local producer, then the Visit and tasting with the producer will give you a personal connection and rich insight.
Consider your budget—the tastings range from approximately $53 to a more comprehensive experience—and your interests—whether you prefer technical tasting, playful exploration, or personal storytelling. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Marano di Valpolicella offers a diverse range of wine experiences that cater to different tastes and levels of interest. From the detailed exploration of Amarone’s aging process to lighthearted tastings and intimate producer visits, there’s something for all. For those seeking to deepen their knowledge, the Amarone vertical tasting is a standout. If you want to enjoy wine in a laid-back, fun way, Playing with wine is perfect. And for a genuine taste of local passion, the Visit and tasting with the producer offers a memorable, personal experience.
Whatever your choice, booking in advance will ensure you get the best times and avoid disappointment. These tours highlight the quality and authenticity of Valpolicella’s wine culture, making your trip to Marano di Valpolicella both delicious and educational. Cheers to discovering your perfect wine adventure!