The Grand Tour of Valpolicella: 2 Wineries, Lunch & Amarone Focus

The Grand Tour of Valpolicella is a must-try experience for any wine enthusiast. This immersive journey delves into the heart of Valpolicella’s renowned Amarone wine heritage. Guests will visit two family-owned wineries, learning about the intricate appassimento drying process and indulging in tastings of the prized Amarone DOCG wines. But the highlights extend beyond the vineyards, as travelers also savor a delightful Veronese lunch showcasing local specialties. With breathtaking vistas and personalized service, this tour promises to captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• The tour offers an immersive experience into Valpolicella’s winemaking heritage, with visits to three family-owned wineries known for their Amarone production.
• Guests will learn about the appassimento drying process essential for Amarone’s intensity and have the opportunity to taste a variety of Amarone DOCG and limited edition IGT wines.
• A traditional Veronese lunch, served in an intimate wine cellar setting, showcases the region’s gastronomic heritage and enhances the tasting experience with thoughtfully paired dishes.
• The tour features breathtaking panoramic views of the Amarone hills, blanketed with grapevines, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors to immerse in the landscape’s beauty.
• The tour is priced at $223.85 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, and is limited to a small group size of 12 travelers for a personalized experience.

Exploring Valpolicella’s Amarone Heritage

Amarone, the celebrated centerpiece of Valpolicella’s wine heritage, takes center stage on this immersive tour.

Visitors explore the region’s storied past, exploring three family-owned wineries renowned for their Amarone production. From the vineyards clinging to the rolling hills to the captivating underground cellars, the tour offers an insider’s perspective on this iconic Italian red.

Guests savor the nuances of Amarone’s complex flavors, learning about the meticulous appassimento drying process that lends the wine its signature intensity.

The experience culminates in a traditional Veronese lunch, perfectly paired with limited-edition Amarone and other regional specialties.

Winery Visits and Tastings

Embarking on the tour, guests enjoy the winemaking traditions of Valpolicella as they visit three renowned family-owned wineries.

At each stop, they’re treated to a special tasting of Amarone DOCG wines, exploring different vintages and limited edition IGT offerings. The experience goes beyond just sipping – guests learn about the unique Appassimento drying process that gives Amarone its bold, concentrated flavors.

The tour also includes:

1. A traditional Veronese lunch served in an intimate wine cellar setting.
2. Panoramic stops offering scenic views of the Amarone hills.
3. Door-to-door wine shipping for guests to enjoy their discoveries back home.

Savoring a Traditional Veronese Lunch

What better way to take in the Veronese culinary traditions than with a carefully curated lunch in an intimate wine cellar setting? The tour includes a traditional Veronese lunch that showcases the region’s renowned gastronomic heritage. Guests are treated to a selection of local delicacies thoughtfully paired with the rich, velvety Amarone wines.

Course	Menu Item
Appetizer	Local cheeses (DOP), salami (DOP)
Main	Risotto with Amarone reduction
Side	Roasted seasonal vegetables
Dessert	Traditional Recioto DOCG cake

This experience allows travelers to savor the flavors of Valpolicella while surrounded by the historic ambiance of the wine cellar, creating a truly immersive and memorable gastronomic journey.

Panoramic Vistas of the Amarone Hills

As the tour winds through the picturesque countryside, travelers are treated to breathtaking panoramic vistas of the celebrated Amarone hills.

These rolling hillsides, blanketed in row after row of grapevines, offer a feast for the senses:

1. The sweeping views inspire awe, revealing the sheer scale and magnificence of the Valpolicella region.

2. The interplay of light and shadow on the vines creates a mesmerizing visual tapestry.

3. The tranquil, serene atmosphere invites visitors to pause, breathe deeply, and fully enjoy the beauty of this iconic wine-growing landscape.

Sensory Experiences With Amarone DOCG and Limited Edition IGT Wines

How do the special wine tastings elevate the Valpolicella experience?

The tour includes a rare opportunity to sample Amarone DOCG wines across different vintages, as well as limited edition IGT selections. Guests savor the depth and complexity of these renowned reds, guided by the expertise of the winemakers.

The structured, velvety Amarones reveal concentrated flavors of dark fruit, spice, and dried herbs, while the IGT wines showcase the region’s innovative blends.

These sensory explorations heighten the appreciation for Valpolicella’s viticultural artistry, leaving travelers with a renewed understanding of this renowned Italian wine country.

Personalized and Knowledgeable Guidance

The knowledgeable and friendly guides are a highlight of the Grand Tour of Valpolicella. They bring the region’s rich winemaking history to life, offering a personalized and engaging experience.

Here’s why their guidance is invaluable:

1. Deep Expertise: The guides are certified local professionals with extensive knowledge of Valpolicella’s terroir, grape varieties, and winemaking processes.

2. Insider Access: They leverage their connections to provide exclusive access and unique experiences at the region’s top wineries.

3. Attentive Service: The small group size allows the guides to tailor the tour to individual interests and needs, ensuring a truly memorable journey.

Hassle-free Transportation and Logistics

With convenient transportation and logistics, the Grand Tour of Valpolicella ensures a hassle-free experience for travelers.

The tour includes private vehicle transport, either a private car or Mercedes Minivan, providing door-to-door service. A certified local driver and guide accompany the group, sharing their expertise throughout the day.

The meeting point is centrally located in Verona, making it easy for participants to arrive. The tour starts promptly at 10 AM and returns to the original meeting spot, allowing travelers to plan their day efficiently.

Groups are capped at 12 people, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

Booking and Cancellation Considerations

What’re the booking and cancellation considerations for the Grand Tour of Valpolicella? The tour is priced from $223.85 per person and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking. Key requirements include:

1. Minimum drinking age of 18 years.
2. Green pass required for entry.
3. Small group size maximum of 12 travelers.

With flexible cancellation and clear booking details, travelers can plan their Amarone-focused Valpolicella experience with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Wine on the Tour?

No, guests cannot bring their own wine on the tour. The tour includes tastings at three wineries and a traditional Veronese lunch, so bringing outside wine is not permitted. The tour provides a comprehensive wine experience.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English. According to the overview, the guides are certified locals, suggesting they can accommodate different language preferences for a more personalized experience.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour does not offer customizable itineraries. It follows a set schedule of visiting three wineries, enjoying a traditional Veronese lunch, and panoramic stops. Flexibility is limited to accommodate the group’s interests and preferences within the established tour program.

Can I Purchase Additional Bottles of Wine During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can purchase additional bottles of wine during the tour. The tour includes a door-to-door wine shipping service, allowing guests to have their purchases conveniently delivered after the experience.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings or Returning Customers?

The tour doesn’t specifically mention discounts for group bookings or returning customers. However, some tour operators may offer group rates or loyalty programs, so it’s best to inquire about any special offers when making the booking.

The Sum Up

The Grand Tour of Valpolicella offers a captivating immersion into the region’s celebrated Amarone wine heritage. Guests will discover the intricate art of appassimento drying, indulge in tastings, and savor a traditional Veronese lunch – all while enjoying breathtaking vistas and personalized service. This enchanting journey provides a memorable exploration of Valpolicella’s rich wine culture.