Tour in the Winery and tasting

Experience a Delightful Winery Tour and Tasting at Lake Garda

This review explores a highly-rated, intimate winery experience on Italy’s scenic south coast of Lake Garda. The tour, offered by Azienda Agricola Sgreva, is a cozy, 1.5-hour journey into the world of one of the region’s most beloved wines, Lugana DOC. With a perfect 5.0/5 from 70 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, it’s clear this is a well-loved activity among travelers seeking a genuine taste of local wine culture.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its balance of tradition and personal touch — a family-run winery that invites visitors to walk through vineyards, see the wine-making process firsthand, and explore their captivating underground cellar. One thing we love is how this tour manages to be both educational and relaxed, often with just your private group, making it feel like a visit to good friends rather than a commercial set-up.

A possible consideration for travelers is the lack of private transportation included, meaning you’ll need to arrange your own way to the starting point in Sirmione. But if you’re staying within reach of public transit or have a car, this is easily manageable. This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts, couples, or small groups eager for an authentic, insider look at family winemaking with exceptional tasting opportunities.

Key Points

• Authentic Family Winery: Small, family-run with a real passion for their land and craft.
• Comprehensive Experience: Vineyard walks, production insight, underground cellar visit.
• Quality Tasting: Four Lugana DOC wines paired with local food, offering great value.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable hosts like Chiara, appreciated for their friendliness and expertise.
• Flexible Group Size: Usually private or small groups, creating an intimate atmosphere.
• Affordable Price: Around $34 for a detailed, memorable experience.

Discovering the Charm of Sgreva Winery

When considering a wine tour around Lake Garda, Sgreva stands out for its authentic, family-oriented approach. Since opening in 1960, this winery has combined tradition with a touch of innovation, making their Lugana DOC wines a true expression of the land. The modest size of the family estate doesn’t mean they cut corners — instead, it ensures a personalized, heartfelt experience.

Our impression is that the biggest strength of this tour is how it balances education with genuine hospitality. From the moment we arrived at the meeting point in Sirmione, the hosts exuded warmth. The tour is designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate, including service animals.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at the Meeting Point
The tour begins at Via S. Martino della Battaglia, where you’ll meet your guide, often Chiara — a standout for her extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor. Most tours last about 90 minutes, making it a perfect short activity that fits well into a day exploring Lake Garda.

Vineyard Walks
The first part involves a stroll through the vineyards, where you’ll learn how the grapes are cultivated and the importance of the land. Reviewers highlight how engaging and informative the guides are, often sharing personal stories about their family’s history. One guest noted, “Chiara was fabulous — so knowledgeable and friendly.”

Production Insights
Next, you get to see the wine-making process up close. The guides explain how Lugana DOC wine is crafted, from grape harvesting to fermentation. This behind-the-scenes look is especially appreciated by those wanting to understand what makes this wine so special.

Underground Cellar Visit
No winery tour is complete without exploring the cellar, and Sgreva’s underground space is memorable. The cool, dark environment provides the perfect backdrop for aging wine and adds a mysterious charm. Reviewers often mention the uniqueness of this part of the tour, with one saying, “The cellar is like stepping into a secret world.”

Tasting with Local Pairings
The grand finale is sampling four different wines, paired thoughtfully with local food like cheese and salami. Guests consistently rate this part as a highlight, praising both the quality of the wines and the informative guidance during tasting. One reviewer described it as “a very informative wine journey,” with excellent wines that paired well with the small bites.

End of Tour
The experience concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of Lugana DOC and the passion of the family behind it.

The Wines and Food

The tasting features four glasses, each carefully paired with local products to enhance flavors. Guests rave about the quality and diversity — from crisp whites to more complex varieties, all reflecting the unique terroir of Lake Garda. The pairings elevate the experience, making it not just about tasting but truly savoring each sip.

Value for Money

At just over $34 per person, this tour offers an impressive amount of value. Considering the personalized attention, the insightful tour, and the four wine tastings plus local food, it’s an affordable way to gain a richer understanding of regional wines. Reviewers consistently mention the “excellent value for money” and the opportunity to learn about winemaking in such a relaxed environment.

Guides and Hospitality

The guides, like Chiara, receive widespread praise for their professionalism, friendliness, and deep knowledge. Multiple reviewers mention how their hosts make everyone feel welcomed and relaxed, often staying longer than scheduled to answer questions or share more stories. This genuine hospitality transforms a simple tasting into a memorable experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended, with most tours booked about 18 days ahead.
• The tour is mobile ticketed, so it’s convenient to keep your smartphone handy.
• Since transportation isn’t included, ensure you arrange your own way to the starting point in Sirmione.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations, as it involves walking through vineyards and cellar exploration.
• A private experience means your group gets undivided attention, making it perfect for couples or small groups.
• The tour operates most days, but check availability and confirm your booking at least a couple of weeks in advance.

Authenticity and Unique Experience

What sets this winery tour apart is its family-run charm — small scale, big passion. Reviewers mention the personal touch, with one saying, “It’s a real family business, and the passion shows in every glass.” The underground cellar adds a layer of intrigue and authenticity, giving you a tangible sense of centuries-old winemaking traditions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to learn about Lugana DOC in a relaxed, friendly setting. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples wanting a more authentic view of Italian winemaking without overly commercialized tours. If you appreciate knowledgeable hosts, local food, and beautiful vineyard scenery, you’ll find this tour a delightful addition to your Lake Garda trip.

Final Thoughts

This winery tour at Sgreva offers a genuine, well-rounded look at Lugana DOC wine, paired with the warmth of a family-run estate. The combination of vineyard walks, production insights, underground cellar exploration, and tastings makes it a compelling choice for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of regional wines. The reviews consistently praise the guides, the wines, and the value it provides, making it a standout experience around Lake Garda.

For those who enjoy authentic, intimate wine experiences, this tour hits the sweet spot of education, hospitality, and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply curious about Italian wines, you’ll leave with more knowledge, a few new favorites, and a memorable story to share.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
The reviews mention that hosts are willing to accommodate specific dietary requests, including vegan and vegetarian options, during the pairing.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, covering vineyard walks, cellar visit, and tasting.

Do I need private transportation to join?
Transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the starting point in Sirmione.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if needed.

Is the tour all outdoors?
It includes walking through vineyards and visiting an underground cellar, so expect both outdoor and indoor environments.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the wine tasting of four wines paired with local food, guided explanations, and the visit to the cellar and vineyards.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for adults and older children who can enjoy tasting and walking.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private activity, so only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 18 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

This Sgreva winery experience is a wonderful way to appreciate the local culture, taste some fantastic wines, and enjoy a personal connection to Lake Garda’s winemaking traditions. It’s a memorable, value-packed activity that will enrich your visit and leave you with a deeper appreciation of this charming region.