Exploring the picturesque town of San Gimignano just got even more enticing. The Vineyard and Cellar Tour with Wine Tasting offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s winemaking traditions. Led by a knowledgeable sommelier, this 1.5-hour guided experience invites guests to stroll through the vineyards, uncover the secrets of vinification, and indulge in a tasting of the area’s renowned varietals. With limited group sizes, this tour promises an intimate and personalized encounter with the flavors that have made San Gimignano a beloved destination. What secrets might these vineyards and cellars hold?
Key Points
- A guided 1.5-hour winery tour in Italian or English, limited to 8 participants, providing a personal experience.
- Exploration of the surrounding vineyards, learning about grape varietals, pruning techniques, and sustainable farming practices.
- Visit to the wine cellar to discover the vinification and aging processes, guided by a knowledgeable sommelier.
- Tasting of renowned wines, including Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG, Chianti Colli Senesi DOCG, and Vinsanto del Chianti DOC.
- Opportunity to sample local wine and food pairings, such as cured meats, cheeses, and traditional cantuccini cookies.
Tour Overview
Visitors can experience the local wine and food tradition on this guided winery tour.
The tour lasts 1.5 hours and is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personal experience. Available in Italian and English, the tour costs from €45.00 per person.
Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The reserve now & pay later option is also available, providing flexibility for travelers.
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Vineyard Experience
As part of the guided tour, guests are taken on a walk through the vineyards surrounding the winery.
They learn about the grape varietals, pruning techniques, and sustainable farming practices.
The Sommelier shares the history of the estate and its commitment to preserving the local terroir.
The estate’s sommelier recounts its rich history and dedication to safeguarding the unique regional terroir.
Visitors then head to the wine cellar to discover the vinification and aging processes.
Here, they taste a selection of wines, including the renowned Vernaccia di San Gimignano D.O.C.G. and Chianti Colli Senesi D.O.C.G. in both vintage and riserva versions, accompanied by the traditional Vinsanto del Chianti D.O.C. and cantuccini.
Cellar Tour
After exploring the vineyards, guests head into the winery’s cellar to uncover the secrets behind the wine-making process.
The knowledgeable sommelier guides them through:
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Fermentation tanks where grapes transform into wine
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Oak barrels used for aging and imparting distinctive flavors
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Temperature and humidity-controlled environments crucial for maturation
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Traditional Tuscan winemaking techniques passed down for generations
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Intricate steps involved in creating the renowned Vernaccia di San Gimignano and Chianti Colli Senesi varietals
Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the art and science behind these acclaimed regional wines.
Wine Tasting Selections
What wines do guests have the opportunity to taste during the San Gimignano Vineyard and Cellar Tour?
The tour includes tastings of Vernaccia di San Gimignano D.O.C.G. and Chianti Colli Senesi D.O.C.G, both in vintage and riserva versions.
Guests also sample the region’s signature Vinsanto del Chianti D.O.C., paired with traditional cantuccini cookies.
The wines are accompanied by a selection of cured meats, cheeses, dried fruits, and extra virgin olive oil from the farm’s olive grove, enhancing the tasting experience.
This carefully curated wine tasting allows guests to explore the local winemaking traditions of San Gimignano.
More Great Tours NearbyVernaccia Di San Gimignano DOCG
The Vernaccia di San Gimignano is a white wine that holds the prestigious DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) designation, signifying its high quality and adherence to strict production standards.
The Vernaccia di San Gimignano is a DOCG-designated white wine, signifying its high quality and adherence to strict production standards.
This historic varietal has been cultivated in the San Gimignano region for centuries.
The tour highlights:
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Made from 100% Vernaccia grapes, grown in the region’s unique microclimate
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Crisp, dry, and refreshing with notes of citrus, minerals, and herbs
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Often aged in stainless steel or oak to develop complexity
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Pairs well with seafood, poultry, and light pasta dishes
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Considered one of Italy’s most distinctive and prestigious white wines
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Chianti Colli Senesi DOCG
Though less renowned than its Chianti Classico counterpart, Chianti Colli Senesi DOCG is a distinctive and high-quality red wine from the Siena hills.
The blend consists primarily of Sangiovese grapes, sometimes complemented by smaller amounts of other approved red varietals.
Chianti Colli Senesi offers an array of flavors, from ripe red fruits to savory notes and a hint of spice.
The wine’s well-structured tannins and balanced acidity make it an excellent pairing for a variety of dishes, from traditional Tuscan fare to modern Mediterranean cuisine.
A true taste of the Sienese terroir.
Vinsanto Del Chianti DOC
Vinsanto del Chianti DOC is a revered sweet wine from the Chianti region of Tuscany.
This unique wine undergoes a meticulous process:
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Made from Trebbiano and Malvasia grapes
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Grapes are air-dried for several months, concentrating the sugars
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Slow fermentation in small oak barrels for a minimum of 3 years
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Develops complex flavors of dried fruit, caramel, and toasted nuts
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Pairs beautifully with traditional cantuccini cookies or aged cheeses
The result is a luscious, amber-hued dessert wine with a delicate balance of sweetness and acidity.
Vinsanto del Chianti DOC is a beloved cornerstone of Tuscan winemaking tradition.
Culinary Pairing
Expertly paired wines complement the robust flavors of the farm’s cured meats, cheeses, dried fruits, and cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil.
The Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG, with its crisp acidity, contrasts beautifully with the creamy textures of the cheeses.
The Chianti Colli Senesi DOCG, both the Vintage and Riserva versions, showcase their depth and complexity when paired with the earthy charcuterie.
The sweet and nutty Vinsanto del Chianti DOC harmonizes perfectly with the traditional cantuccini cookies, creating a delightful end to the tasting experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The tour doesn’t specify accessibility for people with disabilities. Visitors should contact the winery to inquire about accommodations and accessibility prior to booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, participants can’t bring their own food and drinks. The tour includes a wine tasting and a selection of local food pairings provided as part of the experience. Outside food and drinks are not permitted.
Can I Purchase the Wines Tasted During the Tour?
Yes, participants can purchase the wines tasted during the tour. The tour includes tastings of Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG, Chianti Colli Senesi DOCG, and Vinsanto del Chianti DOC wines, which can be purchased at the end of the experience.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is primarily focused on wine tasting and may not be suitable for children. However, the winery may accommodate younger participants upon request. It’s best to check with the tour provider for any specific child-friendly policies.
Are There Any Vegetarian/Vegan Food Options Available?
The tour does offer vegetarian and vegan food pairings, including cured meats, cheeses, dried fruits, and olive oil, allowing those with dietary restrictions to fully enjoy the wine tasting experience.
The Sum Up
Enjoy the rich winemaking heritage of San Gimignano. This guided tour provides a comprehensive experience, from exploring the picturesque vineyards to delving into the intricacies of the wine cellar. Savor the renowned Vernaccia, Chianti, and Vinsanto varietals, expertly paired with local delicacies, for a truly authentic taste of the region’s viticulture. This personalized excursion offers an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the art and tradition of San Gimignano’s winemaking legacy.
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