Exclusive wine tasting in Brunate

Imagine savoring three carefully selected wines while gazing out over one of Italy’s most photogenic lakes — that’s what this exclusive wine tasting tour offers. Hosted in the charming town of Brunate, just a short funicular ride from Como, this experience blends regional wine culture, delicious local food, and breathtaking vistas into a compact but memorable 2-hour session.

What really makes this tour stand out is the personal touch — guided by Arianna, a passionate host with sommelier training, you’ll feel like you’re sharing a private moment with an expert who genuinely loves to showcase her hometown. While it’s a short experience, it’s packed with value, from the stories behind each wine to the stunning backdrop of Lake Como.

One thing to keep in mind: this experience is quite popular, booked on average 79 days in advance — so planning ahead is essential if you want to secure a spot. It’s ideal for those who love wine, enjoy authentic food pairings, or simply want a special way to see Lake Como from above. However, if you’re looking for a lengthy tasting or a full-day adventure, this may feel a bit brief.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Only your group participates, offering a more intimate setting.
• Stunning views: The vistas of Lake Como from Brunate are truly unforgettable.
• Local wines: Tastes include a sparkling wine, white, and red — all representative of Lombardy’s terroir.
• Authentic pairings: Wines are paired with homemade focaccia, cured meats, and cheeses from a nearby farm.
• Expert guidance: Arianna’s knowledge brings the region’s wine and food story vividly to life.
• Convenient setup: The 7-minute funicular journey adds a fun element and makes access easy.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Itinerary: From Como to Brunate in Style

Starting at Piazza Alcide de Gasperi in Como, the tour is designed for both comfort and immersion. After a brief, scenic 7-minute funicular ride, you’ll arrive in the hilltop town of Brunate, famous for its panoramic views and the Voltiano Lighthouse — a local icon. Many reviews highlight how the journey itself is part of the charm, with Sarah from her review noting that Arianna “gave us an incredible view with unique food and wine pairings.”

Once in Brunate, Arianna takes center stage. Her passion for regional wines shines through as she introduces three representative wines of Lombardy: a sparkling wine, a white, and a red. We loved the way she explained the grape varieties, harvest process, and how each wine reflects the local terroir, echoing Serena’s praise: “She was so knowledgeable about how the grapes are planted, harvested, and bottled.”

What’s Served and Why It Matters

The tasting isn’t just about drinking wine. It’s about understanding the culture, tradition, and craftsmanship that go into each bottle. The wines are paired with homemade focaccia and a selection of cured meats and cheeses sourced from a small farm near Como. This pairing adds a rustic, authentic layer to the experience, making each sip and bite a taste of the region’s culinary identity.

The food and wine combination is often praised by guests like Leslie, who said, “The food it was paired with was delicious,” emphasizing the quality and thoughtfulness behind the pairings. It’s clear that Arianna’s goal is to give a well-rounded sensory experience that captures the essence of Lake Como’s food culture.

The View from the Top

The highlight, beyond the wine, is the spectacular panoramic view from Brunate. As you sip your wine, you’ll be able to gaze over Lake Como’s shimmering waters, framed by lush hills and quaint villages. Multiple reviews mention how unforgettable the scenery is, with Leslie adding that the experience “can’t be missed.” The combination of tasting and sightseeing makes this more than just a wine class — it’s a mini cultural escape.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

Guests repeatedly rave about Arianna’s knowledge and her genuine enthusiasm for her hometown. Kmtownley713 notes, “Arianna was fantastic! A lovely experience and would recommend.” Her storytelling adds depth, sharing not just facts but her personal insights into Brunate’s history and culinary traditions, which enriches the entire experience.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, fostering a relaxed and personalized atmosphere. It’s suitable for most travelers, with the exception of those under 18, since alcohol is served from that age onward. The experience is located near public transportation, making it easy to access, and service animals are permitted.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short activity if you’re pressed for time but want a meaningful taste of what Lake Como and Lombardy have to offer. The price point of $144.60 per person is reasonable considering the quality of the wines, food, expert guidance, and the stunning setting. When you factor in the intimate atmosphere and the value of local insight, it becomes a worthwhile investment.

Cancellation and Weather Considerations

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is a bonus if your plans are flexible. Since the experience depends on good weather, it’s worth noting that if conditions are poor, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is best suited for wine lovers, those interested in local Italian cuisine, and travelers who want a unique view of Lake Como. It’s particularly appealing if you’re seeking a personalized, authentic experience with a knowledgeable guide. Because it’s a short, private activity, it’s ideal for couples, small groups, or travelers who appreciate a relaxed, intimate setting.

However, those seeking a longer tasting or a broader exploration of the region might find this tour a bit limited in scope. It’s not meant to be a full-day wine tour but rather a curated, special moment — a “taste” of Lake Como life.

The Sum Up

This exclusive wine tasting in Brunate offers a delightful blend of spectacular scenery, authentic wine and food, and personalized guidance. With only your group participating, you get the chance to learn, taste, and enjoy at your own pace, all while soaking in some of the most beautiful views of Lake Como.

For travelers who love wine, appreciate local culture, or simply want a memorable setting to relax and connect, this experience hits the mark. The knowledgeable host, Arianna, ensures you’ll leave not just with a full glass but with stories and impressions that will linger long after the last sip.

This tour is best suited for those craving a special, intimate taste of Lake Como’s culinary scene and breathtaking vistas. It’s a perfectly curated moment for lovers of wine, stunning scenery, and authentic Italian charm.

FAQs

Is this a private tour? Yes, only your group participates, making it more personal and relaxed.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 2 hours, including transportation and tasting.

What wines are sampled? You’ll taste a sparkling wine, a white, and a red, all produced in Lombardy.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

Is the experience suitable for kids or those under 18? No, since alcohol is served only to guests 18 and older.

How do I get to Brunate? The tour starts in Como and involves a short funicular ride, which takes about 7 minutes, offering an enjoyable journey and stunning views.

This experience is a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation for Lake Como’s local wines and culture, all while soaking in some of Italy’s most stunning scenery. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to a memorable afternoon, Arianna’s wine tasting in Brunate is worth considering.